Is there any Ruby or Python interpreter for Lego Mindstorm?

Question

I want to start coding in Python or Ruby. Since I own a Lego Midstorms kit I thought it would be nice to program against it. Are there any good translators / interpeters for the Mindstorms brick?

Answer 1

Here's an open source project for Ruby

Answer 2

With python you can use jaraco.nxt or nxt-python to control the NXT robot. I don't own one so I've never used any of those.

Found this example using nxt-python:

#!/usr/bin/env python

import nxt.locator
from nxt.motor import Motor, PORT_B, PORT_C

def spin_around(b):
        m_left = Motor(b, PORT_B)
        m_left.update(100, 360)
        m_right = Motor(b, PORT_C)
        m_right.update(-100, 360)

sock = nxt.locator.find_one_brick()
if sock:
        spin_around(sock.connect())
        sock.close()
else:
        print 'No NXT bricks found'

Seems nice.

Answer 3

The nxt-python and ruby-nxt projects are remote control interfaces to the NXT. They both run on a PC and remotely control the NXT via Bluetooth or USB. If you are looking for running alternative firmware on the NXT, there are several different alternatives.

Steve Hassenplug has a webpage with a comprehensive list of all of the known alternative firmware and remote control options.
NXT Software