Paul Loisil Released TNY-360 Open-Source Robot
The new quadruped robot utilizes a single ESP32-S3 microcontroller to achieve high-performance movement at a low cost.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Robotics
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Designer Paul Loisil has introduced the TNY-360, an open-source quadruped robot that leverages a single ESP32-S3 microcontroller to manage complex kinematics and web interfaces. Kits for the robot are now available for preorder to provide accessible robotics engineering for enthusiasts.
Why it matters
The TNY-360 bypasses the need for expensive smart servos by utilizing a custom closed-loop design with modified MG996R servos and op-amp buffers. This architecture reduces costs while maintaining precise control, making advanced robotics more attainable for students and hobbyists.
The TNY-360 utilizes 12 modified MG996R servos and operates at a 200Hz loop. Kits are available at three tiers: the BareBones kit at €289, the Maker kit at €399, and the upcoming Ready2Run version at €599.
The players
Paul Loisil
He is the robotics developer who created the TNY-360 quadruped platform and licensed it under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
The details
The robot features an OV2640 camera and a VL53L0X sensor, with power supplied by six Samsung INR18650-25R cells. By offloading kinematics to one microcontroller core while the other manages web orchestration, the design achieves efficient movement without signal interference.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: The TNY-360 project details were published.
Under the Hood
The TNY-360 leverages the dual-core ESP32-S3 to handle complex robotics kinematics alongside web-based control interfaces. This project builds upon the widespread adoption of the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, extending its utility by demonstrating its capability to manage advanced automation tasks.
The TNY-360 kits allow enthusiasts to build a functional quadruped at a significantly lower entry price than commercial robotic equivalents. Users gain hands-on experience with custom PCB integration, op-amp signal conditioning, and dual-core firmware development.
The takeaway
Open-source projects like the TNY-360 demonstrate how clever engineering can replicate the performance of expensive hardware through creative firmware and signal management. Hobbyists can utilize these designs to build complex machines while learning the fundamentals of real-time control systems.
Further reading
For more information on the latest developments in mechanical design, visit the Robotics section.
More information
View full technical specifications and project documentation on the TNY-360 project information page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Electronics For You - Official Site ElectronicsForU.com.
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