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How to Make Cheap Walking Robots

There was a time when building a robot that could walk across the room was both expensive and challenging. However, thanks to the various kits on the market, anyone with a little time, the ability to follow instructions and the right LEGO kit can build a walking robot. These robots can be put together quickly and can even be programmed through your computer with various instructions.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel or large sheet of paper
  • 3 plastic containers
  • LEGO Mindstorms NXT kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay your towel or large piece of paper across your work surface and line up several plastic containers along the edge. Sort the pieces of the LEGO kit into these containers according to function. Put moving parts such as hinges and pivots into one container. Building parts such as blocks and bricks go into a second container. Place all wheels and axles into a third container. This will help you find the pieces when you need them.

    • 2

      Draw a rough sketch of your original robot. Alternatively, if you're building the robot on the box, use the picture and instructions included with the kit. The booklet that came with your kit has several designs that you can modify to suit your own needs and desires. Refer to your diagram often while you work.

    • 3

      Build the support box for the robot's computer according to the instructions in the kit. Adapt the instructions to suit the design of your robot. When building the box, remember that the computer must be in a central location and that all wires and sensors will have to connect to it. Ensure that the computer and the wires that come from the computer do not interfere with the robot's mobility. Place the computer that came with the kit inside the support box. Make sure the computer is secure and will not fall out.

    • 4

      Build the legs according to your design, using pivots and LEGO blocks. If your robot has only two legs, ensure these legs are positioned directly under the computer. If your robot has four or more legs, experiment with their placement until you find the right balance. Ensure that you construct the legs so your robot is not wobbly as it stands in place. Attach the legs to the support frame using drive axles so that the computer will be able to move the legs.

    • 5

      Add movement sensors to the legs of the robot and connect the other end of the sensors to the computer. Label all sensors in the kit according to their function so movement sensors are easy to locate. Turn on the computer to test the walking function before you continue to build your robot. For example, if the robot falls over, you may need to adapt the leg design to better suit your robot.

    • 6

      Build the torso, head and arms of your robot according to your design, using LEGO blocks, pivots and hinges. Add additional sensors for movement, light and sound, if desired. Test the robot again and make any necessary adjustments. Make small adjustments to the legs if the addition of the torso and head throws your robot off balance.

    • 7

      Use your computer to program the robot with the USB cable that came in the box. Instructions for doing this are included with the LEGO kit. Adjust the programming from your computer to improve basic functioning and get a robot that moves more naturally.

    • 8

      Test the robot again once you have reprogrammed it. Reposition the sensors if your robot still seems sluggish. Move the sensors up or down to help improve the movement of your robot.


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