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!
You may know of Claytronics (aka programmable matter) – the use of reconfigurable nanoscale robots to form shapeshifting objects. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have proposed several basic robotic designs as possible foundations for claytronics, including: Planar catoms test the concept of motion without moving parts and the design of force effectors that create cooperative […]
She may look like one, but don’t call her a “bug” – The “Lady Bird” autonomous robot was introduced to Western Japan’s highway rest stops in November of 2007 to maintain restroom cleanliness as well as friendliness – In addition to cleaning, Lady Bird can engage in simple conversation with restroom users, thanks to microphones […]
In honor of Robot Day here on MAKE, I’ve posted my “Rules for Roboticists,” from my 2004 book Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Building Robots. It’s a playful list of operating principles, rules of thumb, and words o’ wisdom about bot building. The piece is accompanied by robot scientist “trading cards,” illustrated by Mark Frauenfelder, for […]
From the MAKE Flickr pool . . . not autonomous, not motor driven, not even powered – just plain cute. Farnea’s Audrey robots #1, – Link & #2 – Link Related: Homemade robot costume – Link
This project by Tim Redfern allows onlookers to send SMS messages to Robosapien robots who respond with some impressive dance moves. The system uses a custom built, downloadable Xtra for (Macromedia/Adobe) Director called “UIRT XTRA” that is free from the site below. Check out the video. Dancing Robosapiens – Link, UIRT Xtra Download
Back in the 1982, Heathkit released the HERO 1 educational robot. HERO 1 had a Motorola 6808 CPU and 4k of RAM on board. He came equipped with motion, light, sound and sonar ranging sensors. You could even add an optional arm attachment and max out his capabilities. Taking a cue from the success of […]
Here’s an excellent recreation of the K-9 (Mk II, I believe) from the BBC’s classic Doctor Who series. The maker did a very thorough job on the panelling and used an RC tank for locomotion – unfortunately no design measurements are supplied in the build documentation. – Link Of course that’s not the only K-9 […]
