Courses at Olivabot (English)

Hands‑on bio‑robotics courses in Amsterdam Zuid at Vrije Universiteit (VU) StartHub. 1:1, project‑based learning with a dedicated tutor.

Who it’s for: makers, students, engineers, and teams. Limited spots (1:1).

Location: Olivabot Office — VU StartHub, De Boelelaan 1095a, 1A-21, 1081HV Amsterdam Zuid

Topics

Pick what you need. We’ll tailor depth and pace to your goal.

Design & Fabrication

3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping

You will: Print parts that fit and survive real use.

  • Pick materials
  • Tune tolerances
  • Assemble moving mechanisms

CAD for Mechanisms

You will: Design assemblies that move as intended.

  • Parametric parts
  • Linkages
  • Clearances & fasteners

Hardware & Firmware

Microcontrollers & Firmware (C/C++)

You will: Go from blink to robust firmware that runs your robot.

  • Read sensors reliably
  • Control motors with PID
  • Structure real‑time loops

Software & AI

Programming for Robotics

You will: Write clean Python/C++ code for perception and control.

  • Data pipelines
  • Control routines
  • Packaging & best practices

Computer Vision

You will: Give your robot eyes and usable signals.

  • Detect objects
  • Track motion
  • Deploy at the edge

Web Programming for Robotics UIs

You will: Create a live dashboard to monitor and control.

  • Telemetry UI
  • Status & logs
  • Simple control panel

Bio & Mechanics

BioRobotics Fundamentals

You will: Start here if you’re new to robotics or want a refresh.

  • Set up a robot controller
  • Wire sensors/actuators
  • Run your first motion

Biomaterials for Robotics

You will: Build with plant‑based, low‑impact materials.

  • Choose bio‑polymers
  • Layup basics
  • Eco‑friendly fabrication

Biomechanics & Bio‑Inspired Design

You will: Borrow from nature to grip, move, and save energy.

  • Select gaits
  • Compliant joints
  • Grip without damage

Sample Paths

Maker Starter

  • 3D Printing (10h)
  • CAD for Mechanisms (16h)

Estimated time: 2–3 weeks

Embedded + Vision

  • Microcontrollers & Firmware (16h)
  • Computer Vision (16h)

Estimated time: 3–4 weeks

Full BioRobotics

  • BioRobotics Fundamentals (12h)
  • Biomechanics & Bio‑Inspired Design (12h)
  • Microcontrollers (16h)
  • CAD or 3D Printing (16h / 10h)

Estimated time: 4–6 weeks

Bring Your Idea

Have a project in mind? Tell us your goal and timeline. We’ll build a focused path to ship it.

Apply or Ask

Personalized Paths & Scholarships

  • Personalized tracks: mix and match modules to build a 4–6 week plan aligned with your goals.
  • Scholarships: limited needs‑based support available. Pitch your project or motivation.
  • Spontaneous applications: apply anytime; rolling start dates; 1:1 sessions.
  • Corporate/custom training: tailored programs for teams at our lab or on‑site.

FAQ

Who are these courses for?

Makers, students, engineers, and founders who want hands‑on robotics skills for real projects.

Do I need prior experience?

Basics help, but each module starts from essentials and ramps up with guided practice.

Are materials included?

Yes—lab access and consumables during class hours are included. You can bring your own hardware too.

Can I get a certificate?

Yes—Olivabot Certificate of Completion for each module or bundle.

Scholarships and discounts?

We offer limited scholarships and early‑bird discounts. Tell us your story when you apply.

How do I apply?

Click Contact Us, share your background, interests, and availability. We’ll propose a personalized plan.

Schedule & Format

  • Rolling start dates. 1:1 evening sessions (18:30–22:30) or weekend intensives
  • One student per tutor. Full focus, maximum learning
  • All materials and lab access included during class hours

Ready to join?

Tell us your goals and preferred dates. We’ll recommend the best track.

Contact Us