Building robots can be a very fun and rewarding experience. There’s a very special feeling you get when you see something that you made with your own hands come to life and scoot around performing the things you programmed it to do. However, it can also be very frustrating if you don’t have the proper skills to take on a project of this scope. I’ve been kicking this robot idea around for 40 years now. Three years ago I decided get serious and bring all my sketches and drawings to life. Even now I still find myself having to learn new skills. But, don’t be disheartened. Take it one step at a time. Seek out advice from others and be patient. If you find yourself up against a wall because you don’t know how to do something, realize this fact, it’s not always what you know… but what you can figure out. Listen to what your common sense is telling you. Go with your gut. And remember; nothing is so complex that it can’t be broken down into small enough pieces for it to be understood. Research and learn what is needed. Use the web. It’s a wonderful tool…Oh, and one more thing…remember to have fun!
Things You Will Need:
Desire- A burning desire to build robots. If you don’t have this there is a very good chance you will fail.
Tools-Lots of tools or access to tools such as: hand tools, cordless drill, table saw, scroll saw, band saw, drill press, lathe, milling machine, belt sander, clamps, etc.
Large Work Area- You need lots of storage space and elbow room. You are going to make quite a mess.
Raw Materials- Wood, metal, plastic, etc.
Money- I’m not saying you have to be rich but, when building something like this it takes quite a bit of money. Plan and work out a budget. Figure out what you need next and save up for it. Find ways to earn extra cash. Sell something you don’t need anymore. You’re clever. You’ll figure it out. Who knows, you may even find a sponsor willing to make a donation.
Time- Understand that a project of this magnitude is going to take up much of your spare time. It could take years.
Patience- The capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset. Get some:)
Information- You definitely need a computer with a good high speed connection to the web for research, obtaining parts and communicating with others that share your dream.
Junk- Yes junk! Collect all kinds of stuff. Try to see the potential in everyday, ordinary items. People throw away tons of good stuff like old broken printers, copy machines, radios, TVs and computers that are full of usable parts. Also collect things such as PVC pipe and fittings, metal or plastic rods and tubes, wire, pieces of angle iron, ball bearings and brackets just to name a few.
A Plan- You need to give some serious thought to what you want your robot to look like and what you want it to do. Break it down into systems, sub assemblies or sections and try to get an idea of what major components will be needed. How big will it be? What look or shape are you going for? What’s it going to made of? What type of locomotion will it need? Will it be remote controlled or autonomous or a little of both? What kind of sounds will it make? Does it need a wireless video and audio system? These are just a few of many things to ponder. Oh, one last thought… How are you going to transport it from place to place?
Friends- Friends can be very helpful. There will be times when you need an extra set of hands. Some of your friends may have a certain tool you need borrow or they can perform a specific task such as turning something on a lathe, machining a part or welding. Encourage your friends to let you know before they throw out something useful.
Determination- You must be determined to see this through. There will be times when you will feel like giving up. Don't lose site of your dream!
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