DIY Robots

Robots are electro-mechanical devices controlled using electronic circuits and computer programs. When it comes to robots, we often picture a robot developed in human form. Robots can be manufactured in a wide range of sizes and shapes, from a round ball to an insect form.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) robots are the ones that can be designed by simply modifying the electronic circuits. These robots can either be small enough to fit in your hand or giant robots that can perform tedious tasks.

Image Credits: Photos.com

Commercially Available DIY Robots

There are a number of robotic kits available in the market for DIY applications. These kits include platforms having all components and a manual for assembling the components to allow users to construct simple-to-advanced robots. Some of the commercially available DIY robotic kits are listed below:

• Eddie – Eddie is a powerful robot that features 3D vision, and a set of drive and caster wheels for motion and change in direction. It has two 12V DC motors with high torque to move the platform to any position.
• Electroadhesive wall-climbing robots – These robots employ an electrically controllable adhesion technology to climb up the walls at a speed of up to 1 body length per second. A power supply connected to compliant pads on a platform. The robots have robust clamping to most of the building materials such as concrete, metal, wood, glass and so on. They have a wide range of applications which include inspection robots, military and first responders, micro air vehicles and service robots.
• FiveBOT FB004 - FiveBOT is a two-wheeled mobile robot that employs Arduino board, which is commonly used for programming and integrating various robotic components into the platform. Both the wheels can be independently driven by two DC motors, and they can carry a load of up to 10 kg. The robotic kit is specially developed for educational and scientific purposes.
• Super rover kit - Super rover robots are available in two forms with four or six wheels. They have independent suspensions and a modular platform compatible with different robotic parts such as DC motors, radio transmitters, servos, microcontrollers and sensors. This robot can be utilized in kit used for exploring different terrain types and advanced robotic applications.
• Arducopter 3DR – With a lightweight aluminum frame and six plates, Arducopter 3DR kit is an inexpensive, simple flying robot that is capable of lifting loads of up to 1 kg.

Conclusion

With science fiction movies and other novel technologies becoming a major part of our life, people are constantly seeking to explore the futuristic aspects of DIY robots. Moreover, as many of the latest robotic gadgets or devices in the market are highly expensive, developing a similar alternative or duplicate using a DIY approach is a great way to make these highly-priced robots fun and accessible to everyone.

Sources and Further Reading

• Do-It-Yourself Podcast: Robots - NASA