Robot Builder: The Beginner's Guide to Building Robots

Abstract

Absolutely no experience needed! Learn robot building from the ground up, hands-on, in full color! Love robots? Start building them. Its way easier than you ever imagined! John Baichtal has helped thousands of people get started with robotics. He knows what beginners need to know. He knows your questions. He knows where you might need extra help. Now, hes brought together this practical knowledge in one incredibly easy tutorial. Hundreds of full-color photos guide you through every step, every skill. Youll start simple, as you build a working robot in the very first chapter. Then, youll grow your skills to expert-level: powering motors, configuring sensors, constructing a chassis, even programming low-cost Arduino microcontrollers. Youll learn hands-on, through real step-by-step projectsand go straight to the cutting-edge with in-depth sidebars. Wondering just how much you can really do? Baichtal shows you 30 incredible robots built by people just like you! John Baichtals books about toys, tools, robots, and hobby electronics include Hack This: 24 Incredible Hackerspace Projects from the DIY Movemen t; Basic Robot Building With Lego Mindstorms NXT 2. 0; Arduino for Beginners; MAKE: Lego and Arduino Projects for MAKE (as coauthor); and the forthcoming Building Your Own Drones: The Beginners Guide to UAVs and ROVs. A founding member of the pioneering Twin Cities Maker hackerspace, he got his start writing for Wireds legendary GeekDad blog, and for DIYer bible MAKE Magazine. Make your robots move with motors and wheels Build solar-powered robots that work without batteries Control robots via Wi-Fi, radio, or even across the Internet Program robots to respond to sensor inputs Use your standard TV remote to control your robots Create robots that detect intruders and shoot them with Nerfdarts Grab and carry objects using claws and grippers Build water-borne robots that float, submerge, and swim Create artbots that paint or draw original artworks Enable your robots to send text messages when they take specific actions Discover todays new generation of hobbyist-friendly robotics kits Organize your ultimate robot-builders toolbox Master simple safety routines that protect you whatever youre building