What is a robot? A robot is any device that can move on its own.

The simplest
robot is a toy car with wheels that can move on its own. More complicated robot
s can be controlled. Some robots are remote controlled by cables or radio waves
and others have built in computer programs to do the controlling from some sort
of software program. Remote controlled model aircraft can be considered robot
s. The robot may have wheels or arms, or hands or many other very odd configura
tions. Good robots can do useful work. They can work in hazardous conditions w
here humans would not want to be. Robots can take on many different configurati
ons.
Want to build a robot? Well, there are thousands of ideas already out there and
hundreds of levels from the simplest non controlled robots to sophisticated spa
ce robots. What level are you at? Beginner, intermediate or advanced?
Beginner: Start with your own unique idea. Plan the robot on paper. Build mode
ls from paper cut-outs. Write a paper describing what your robot will be able t
o do. You don't even have to build a working model. This type of scientific th
inking is common and a good exercise. It's called robot designing. Put your id
eas on a large poster board. Add drawings and models if you desire. You have no
w constructed a science project. Follow basic science project rules - The desig
n idea; how you think it will work, possible configurations of the design, what
work will the robot be capable of accomplishing, how will it do it, and what are
some possible construction solutions to your robot idea?
Intermediate: An intermediate design would want to include remote control capab
ilities. The robot should perform useful work. The design should be written up
in detail and include construction instructions.
Advanced: Sky is the limit literally. These robots will be remote computer con
trolled devices doing sophisticated work. Some may think and navigate on their o
wn. They may take on the general shape of a human, aircraft, helicopter or any
other strange, odd configuration.
Study Roaches for Robot Design: Sounds crazy but that is exactly what NASA rese
archers are doing. The insect world as it turns out is highly designed for stab
ility. Read the full story here - http://www.sciencentral.com/articles/view.php
3?language=english&type=24119&article_id=218392297&cat=3_all&PHPSESSID=977905db6
e0556d57312872c076a345b
For additional information, visit:
B.E.A.M.
Biomorphic Electronic Asthetic Mechanisms
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