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!
The ArduPilot from the Maker Shed is a full-featured autopilot based on the Arduino open-source hardware platform. It uses infrared (thermopile) sensors for stabilization and GPS for navigation. Requires a GPS module and an infrared XY sensor (not included). The autopilot handles both stabilization and navigation, eliminating the need for a separate stabilization system. It […]
I love this ceramic art, a mash-up of classic blue and white Chinese pottery and modern-day Japanese manga robotics, by Canadian artist Brendan Tang. Brendan tells MAKE: “All works are composted utilizing traditional ceramic processes, from the throwing of the vessels to the hand painting of the forms.” Brendan L.S. Tang
I though this was especially cool until I discovered that there’s no G4 left in the G4 Cube — the LEGO mechanics, sensors, and control take up the entire inside space. Still cool, tho. Maybe a single-board computer could squeeze in there? Transforming LEGO Apple Power Mac G4 Cube [via Hacked Gadgets]
Rodney Brooks, of MIT’s AI Lab and iRobot, is one of my all-time heroes. His work has had a huge impact on how I look at technology in general, robotics in specific, approaches to problem-solving, and more. So I was bummed that I missed his talk (and meeting him) at Maker Faire. Thanks to FORA.tv, […]
The 4th and 5th grade students at Honey Creek Community School in Washtenaw County, Michigan made vibrobots as part of their Design & Technology curriculum. The looks of pride on these kids’ faces are amazing. Vibrobots are a great project for kids this age (kids of any age, really) ’cause they’re easy enough for anyone […]
Theo Jansen’s idea for the Strandbeest was that they would be “autonomous,” driven by the wind. Here’s a solar-powered version. Walking robot / plant thing More: Theo Jansen-inspired Arduino walker Interview with Theo Jansen…
Francesco Fondi, of GAMERSWEB, sent us this video of Hina, a manga custom version of the Kondo KHR-2HV robot. It’s a scaled-down version of KHR-2HV, using 20 digital servos (KRS-788HV) plus one GWS-PICO-STD, all controlled by a small board located in the head. While it “makes coffee” only through the miracle of video editing, the […]
