Maqueen Plus V3 - STEM Educational micro:bit Robot with Matrix Laser Ranging (18650 Battery)

The Maqueen Plus V3 is an advanced STEM educational robot platform designed for primary and secondary school students. Powered by a BBC micro:bit (not included), it combines a matrix laser ranging sensor, high-precision motor encoders with PID control, and built-in line-tracking algorithms to support everything from introductory coding lessons to competitive robotics challenges.

The robot features an 8×8 matrix laser ranging sensor with a 60° field of view, enabling precise obstacle detection and intelligent route planning far beyond what standard ultrasonic sensors offer. Built-in intersection recognition identifies crossroads, T-junctions, and turns in real time, letting students focus on strategy rather than low-level sensor programming.

Key Features

• Matrix Laser Ranging – 8×8 (64-point) laser sensor with 20–4000 mm range, up to 60 Hz update rate, and ±11 mm accuracy at close range
• Built-In Line Tracking – 5 line-tracking sensors with dedicated calibration button and 5 adjustable speed levels
• Intersection Recognition – Identifies 4 junction types (crossroad, T-shaped, right+straight, left+straight) in real time
• PID Motor Control – 2× N20 metal motors with magnetic encoders for precise distance and angle control
• Detachable Motors – Screw-fixed, easily replaceable motors to minimise downtime in classroom use
• Regulated Motor Power – Dedicated voltage-stabilising chip maintains consistent speed regardless of battery level
• RGB Lighting – 4× WS2812 ambient LEDs and 2× programmable RGB headlights
• 14 GPIO Expansion Ports – Extend functionality with additional sensors and modules
• Firmware Upgradeable – Dedicated interface and button for future updates
• Class 1 Laser Safety – Eye-safe laser ranging sensor

Specifications

• Power Supply – 3.5–6V (4× AA batteries: 1.5V dry cells or 1.2V NiMH rechargeable)
• Battery Protection – Reverse connection protection
• Laser Sensor Range – 20–4000 mm
• Laser Accuracy (20–200 mm) – ±11 mm (white), ±12 mm (grey)
• Laser Accuracy (200–4000 mm) – ±5% (white), ±6% (grey)
• Detection Angle – 60° H × 60° V (90° diagonal)
• Laser Update Rate – 15–60 Hz
• Light Sensors – 2× (0–1023 range)
• Infrared Receiver – 1×
• Buzzer – 1×
• Bracket Adjustment – 1-axis, 270° range (M3 thumb screws)

Ideal For

• STEM robotics education in primary and secondary schools
• Robotics competitions and challenges
• Teaching programming with BBC micro:bit
• Exploring autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance

Package Contents

• 1× Maqueen Plus V3 Baseboard
• 2× Metal Motor with Encoder and Connection Cable (pre-installed)
• 1× AA Battery Board
• 1× Matrix Laser Ranging Sensor
• 1× PH2.0-4P Sensor Connection Cable
• 2× Wheels
• 1× Line-Tracking Map
• 1× Screwdriver
• 1× Metal Support Frame
• 1× Metal Mounting Bracket
• 5× 35 mm Mounting Copper Standoffs
• 5× M3 Mounting Screws
• 4× M3 Thumb Screws

Resources

• Product Wiki