Robotics

Making a robot can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s the perfect combination of creativity, engineering and problem solving. However, if you’re just getting started in robotics, it can also be overwhelming. To make things easier for those who are just starting out, we’ve put together some tips and tricks to help makers bring robots to life! From the basics of assembling your robot to software implementation, these pointers will give you everything you need to get started on your robotic adventure!

How do Mecanum wheels work?

We get the pleasure of working with some amazing artists/illustrators here at MAKE. One of them is James Provost. James did the illos for the “Lunchbox Laser” and “Marble Adder” projects in Volume 20, and the “CNC For Under $800” piece in Volume 21. He also did the wonderful illustrated version of the Maker’s Bill […]

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Belvedere the butlerbot

Belvedere the butlerbot

Butlerbots are starting to finally become more popular, many built upon the iRobot Create platform. Such is the case with Belvedere, who cracks jokes, serves appetizers (and cake!) at parties, and is teaching one-year-old Ethan how to dance like a cylindrical robot with no rhythm. Belvedere – A Butler Robot

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Robot leg test

This is the first step in making my own bipedal robot. If I’m satisfied with this leg, I will build another and some hips. I am using a combination of the Lynxmotion servo erector set, and MicroRax to build the frame. I chose to mix these two because I like the aesthetic achieved with MicroRax and the function that the Lynxmotion parts provided. The brain is an Arbotix Robot Controller, which is like an Arduino, with more beef.

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Industrial robot arm catapults flaming bowling balls

Industrial robot arm catapults flaming bowling balls

This is a publicity stunt for a company that makes energy drinks called “Mana” and “Health” packaged to look like WoW or other fantasy-video-game potions. What’s more, we have hit their video of the robot in action before. But I could not resist that fireball photo, and this link has some good technical info about interfacing with the robot, hacking the release mechanism, and framing that awesome night shot using a blinking LED “tracer” bowling ball. Just don’t forget to buy some Mana Energy Potion while you’re there!

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