How to Make a Robot

How can you make a real robot just like in the movies, from the comfort of your own home?

I'll explain the step by step process you need to take to do so.

To build your own robot, you'll need the following:

- Sensors (optional) to sense the world around it

- Motors

- A structure (made out of wood, metal, or plastic)

- A micro-controller or other computer to control the robot and store programs

- A power source to keep the robot running

First you need to choose what the robot will be able to do, and create the design. The purpose can change how you design it. For example, a vacuum robot like Roomba's design is close to the floor and circular, because it's primary task is to vacuum. If you are creating a robot to interact with humans, you may choose a humanoid design.

Next you want to build the basic structure out of your chosen materials. Plastic and wood are less likely to have short circuits and other bugs than metal is, but wood and metal are stronger, and plastic and metal are easier to clean and shape. There are trade-offs depending on what you're doing and how you want the robot to look like. There are also different ways to get around. If you want it to walk on two legs, for example, you'll need to incorporate a weight-shifting technique so it doesn't fall over. Treads are a great method, if you don't mind it being a bit slow. Wheels tend to be the best overall choice for speed, stability, and ease of implementation.

Thirdly, you must add in all of the motors that will move the robot, as well as any sensors that will let it know what's happening in the world around it. Also add in any battery system (be it from DC batteries or solar cells) at this time. Then install the micro-controller and connect it to your sensors, motors, and power pack.

Finally, you are going to need to program the robot, to make choices based on it's sensors (if applicable), and move accordingly. For example, if the robot hears a loud sound, it could spin three times and run away.

This entire process can be completed in less than a month, for less than $1,000, in the comfort of your own home. You can read my journey here: Robot Building Tutorials, or you can visit my robot building site here: How to Make a Robot.