ACEBOTT Intelligent Transportation Education Teacher Kit with SharkBot ESP32 WiFi-IoT

Specifications:

• Microcontroller Core: ESP32 (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth IoT enabled)
• Robotics Platform: SharkBot Smart Car (Level 2)
• Included Smart Modules: Smart Traffic Light, Smart Crossing, Smart Street Light, Smart Parking Lot
• Operating Voltage: 5V DC (USB/Battery powered)
• Logic Level: 3.3V (ESP32 standard)
• Base Material: Custom printed Intelligent Transportation routing mat
• Communication Interface: I2C, Digital GPIO, Wi-Fi
• Programming Compatibility: C++ (Arduino IDE) and Visual Block Programming

Minimum hardware:

• PC, Mac, or Chromebook : required to run KidsBlock (visual programming) or the Arduino IDE to upload code to the ESP32 modules.
  
• 18650 Li-ion Batteries : the SharkBot and the smart city control boards require high-discharge 18650 cells to power the ESP32 processors, servos, and motors simultaneously (USB power alone is insufficient for the mechanical components).

Safety Warnings:

• Battery Polarity: Ensure 18650 batteries are inserted with the correct polarity into the SharkBot and module power boards. Reverse polarity can instantly damage the ESP32 voltage regulators.
• Connector Alignment: The kit uses specific keyed connectors (XH2.54/RJ style) for the smart modules. Do not force connectors into incorrect ports, as this may bend the communication pins.
• Motor Stall Current: Do not manually force the Smart Crossing barrier or Parking Lot servos by hand while powered, as this can draw excessive stall current and burn out the servo motors.

Accessories Included:

• 1× Intelligent Transportation Routing Play Mat 
• 1× SharkBot Smart Car Kit (Level 2)
• 1× Smart Traffic Light Module
• 1× Smart Crossing Module
• 1× Smart Street Light Module
• 1× Smart Parking Lot Module
• 1× ESP32 Max V3.0 Controller Board
• 1× ESP32 Shield V1.0
•  Easy-Plug (XH2.54) Connection Cables
•  Electronic Sensors and Modules
•  Structural Chassis and Mounting Components
•  USB Programming Cable
•  Screws and Assembly Hardware
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the ACEBOTT Teacher Kit compatible with the Arduino IDE?
  Yes, the included ESP32 mainboards can be programmed using standard C++ in the Arduino IDE for advanced students.
  
• Does the SharkBot work with other ACEBOTT expansion packs?
  Yes, the SharkBot (Level 2) is a modular platform that accepts various ACEBOTT structural and electronic upgrades.
  
• Can I run the KidsBlock software on a Mac or Chromebook?
  Yes, KidsBlock is compatible with Windows, macOS, and has web-based options suitable for Chromebooks.
  
• Is it possible to add more smart modules to this mat later?
  Yes, the ESP32 controller has additional I2C and GPIO ports to integrate extra sensors or custom smart city builds.
• What power source is required to run the complete smart city setup?
  The modules and the SharkBot require 18650 Lithium-ion batteries to provide sufficient current for the ESP32, servos, and motors.
  
• Can I use standard AA alkaline batteries instead of 18650 cells?
  No, standard AA batteries cannot provide the high discharge current required by the ESP32 WiFi module and multiple servos running simultaneously.
  
• How long will the smart city run on a fully charged set of 18650 batteries?
  A typical 2500mAh 18650 setup will provide approximately 1 to 2 hours of continuous active automation, depending on motor usage.
• Do students need to solder any components to build this kit?
  No, the entire ACEBOTT system uses easy-plug keyed connectors designed specifically for safe, solder-free classroom environments.
  
• How do I connect the Smart Crossing barrier to the mainboard?
  The Smart Crossing module connects to a designated PWM port on the ESP32 expansion board using the included XH2.54 cable.
  
• Are the cables reversible or polarized?
  The easy-plug cables are keyed, meaning they can only be inserted in the correct orientation, preventing accidental reverse-polarity damage.
• Why is the SharkBot failing to follow the lines on the mat?
  The underside IR line-tracking sensors may need calibration for the ambient lighting in your classroom, or the wheels may be slipping on dust.
  
• Why are the smart modules not communicating with the SharkBot?
  Ensure all boards are powered on, fully charged, and programmed with the correct Wi-Fi credentials or mesh network IDs.
  
• Why is my computer not recognizing the ESP32 board when plugged in?
  Verify that you are using a data-capable micro-USB/Type-C cable, as many cheap charging-only cables will not transmit programming data.
  
• Why is the Smart Parking Lot boom barrier servo jittering?
  Jittering servos are the most common symptom of low battery voltage; recharge the 18650 cells immediately to restore stable operation.
• Where can I find the code for the Smart Traffic Light sequence?
  The default code blocks and C++ examples are included within the ACEBOTT KidsBlock software and their official documentation.
  
• Does the kit support true IoT (Internet of Things) communication?
  Yes, because it uses the ESP32 core, students can program the modules to communicate over Wi-Fi or ESP-NOW mesh networks.
  
• Do I need to install custom Arduino libraries for the SharkBot?
  If using the Arduino IDE, you will need to install the ACEBOTT-specific board definitions and libraries, which are detailed in the official setup guide.