Synopses & Reviews
BUILD THE BADDEST BUG IN TOWN!IT WALKS ON SIX LEGS, POSSESSES ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, UTILIZES STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY, AND IS INCREDIBLY INEXPENSIVE TO BUILD!
This complete project book delivers all the step-by-step plans you need to construct your own six-legged insect-like robot that walks and actually responds to its environment. Using inexpensive off-the-shelf parts hobbyists can “build a better bug” and at the same time have loads of fun honing their knowledge of mechanical construction, programming, microcontroller use, and artificial intelligence.
Written by an award-winning robotics expert, Insectronics:
* Fully explains PIC programming, use of sensors, and robot intelligence
* Details tools and materials
* Covers obstacle avoidance, sonar room mapping, finding the best route, and maze solving
* Features an informative chapter on software that covers coordinating the servo motors for walking, monitoring infrared and sonar sensors, and controlling the output of sound and light emitting diodes
* Includes a comprehensive chapter on robotic grippers
* Explains how to implement radio remote control to operate the robot up to 1 mile away
* Shows you how to give your robot unique personalized features
* Tells you how to get it all done on a shoestring budget
If you want to the follow the lead of robotics experts who are looking to insects for structural inspiration – and have hours of amusement – Insectronics belongs in your home workshop.
Synopsis
Step-by-step guidance on building a six-legged insect-like walking robot
About the Author
Karl Williams is currently employed by Mitra Imaging, a leading medical imaging software company recently acquired by AGFA. In 1985 Mr. Williams was the recipient of an IBM computer technology award for building a computer-controlled robotic arm. A resident of Ontario, Canada, he hosts a robotics and electronics web site.
Table of Contents
A Brief History of Walking MachinesWalking GaitsTools, Test Equipment, and MaterialsStages of Robotic EvolutionChassis, Legs, and Servo MotorsThe Main Controller BoardThe Infrared Sensor BoardFinal AssemblyPIC ProgrammingExperimentsUltrasonic Range FindingRadio Remote ControlAdding a Robotic GripperTaking it Further