This paper introduces the Arachne System, a scalable, cost-effective mobile microrobot swarm platform designed for educational and research applications. It details the design, functionalities, and potential of the Arachne Bots, emphasizing their accessibility to users with minimal robotics expertise. By providing a comprehensive overview of the system’s hardware, sensory capabilities, and control algorithms, the paper demonstrates the platform’s capacity to democratize and reduce entry barriers in mobile robotic swarms research, fostering innovation and educational opportunities in the field. Extensive experimental validation of the system showcases its broad range of capabilities and effectiveness in real-world implementation.
