Hynebot - Novation Tech LLC – we make cool stuff.

The project

Being there, from somewhere else.

Hynebot is an open-source telepresence robotics project created by Jamie Hyneman in collaboration with Novation Tech LLC.

The project explores how a mobile robot can provide more than a camera and screen. The intended platform combines an omnidirectional base with twelve vertical structural tracks that can carry cameras, sensors, flexible arms and other interchangeable devices.

Individual mechanisms can be developed and tested away from the robot, then integrated onto the shared platform. This modular approach allows several experiments to progress in parallel while keeping the core robot available.

Novation is helping to develop prototype tentacle mechanisms, vertical trolley and lifting systems, control software and test hardware.

Concept visualization

See the working idea.

This visualization presents the intended direction of Hynebot. It includes imagined scenes and capabilities; it is not footage of a completed robot.

Concept visualization. Jamie Hyneman appears with permission; other people and workshop scenes shown here are AI-generated.

Novation’s contribution

Mechanisms made to move, reach and learn.

Flexible tentacles

Chains of lightweight, hollow printed elements are being tested as adaptable arms for cameras, tools and other end devices.

Vertical motion

A compact trolley and lifting concept uses structural channel, a stationary lead screw and a movable carriage to position equipment vertically.

Controls and testing

Bench software and hardware tests help turn individual motors, servos and mechanisms into repeatable systems that can be refined safely.

From design to hardware

Prototype, print, test, repeat.

Early design concept for a Hynebot vertical Unistrut trolley — Early vertical trolley study. The current direction places the motor outside the channel, and the arrangement remains under development.

Tentacle sphere parts arranged in 3D-printing slicer software — Preparing hollow tentacle elements for additive manufacturing.

Physical 3D-printed tentacle sphere prototypes in several sizes — Real printed prototypes used to study taper, fit and flexibility.

Exploring possible interactions

Tools that extend remote participation.

Concept visualization of a flexible Hynebot arm holding a soldering iron — Concept visualization: a flexible arm shown with a soldering tool. This is not a demonstrated capability.

Concept visualization of people working beside Hynebot while Jamie Hyneman participates remotely — Concept visualization: remote collaboration with Jamie Hyneman. Other people and the workshop scene are AI-generated.

Open development

Built by making the work visible.

Hynebot remains a work in progress. Designs, controls and mechanisms will continue to change as prototypes are built and tested. The project is intended to be shared as open source as development matures.

Images labeled “concept visualization” are AI-generated representations of project ideas. Photographs and software screenshots are identified separately.

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