Wow. First, computers were these gigantic machines that took up all the space in a single room (or more!), made for the government and big corporations. Then prices dropped, technology improved (Moore’s law), and the computer was personalized, and today everybody practically carries one in their pocket.
When I had to first decide what to major in when in college, I did want to major in something to do with robotics. Robotics however, wasn’t exactly a popular or major discipline that was easily available anywhere. Fast forward to today .. we have personalized robots.
Enter the world of Arduino.
Here’s a very basic robot that exhibits basic facial expression, speaks from text, complete with LEDs. This is hilarious. And SOOOOO COOL.
Read more about the Ganzbot here.
Next, we have Arduway, a Segway-like self-balancing robot. It’s like creating a fragile and little life-form from your bare hands.
Read more about the Arduway here.
And alright .. enough of toys. How about a real world application? Here’s a robot that uses GPS and other sensors to steer a 30,000 lbs beast of a machine for a farmer – to harvest soybeans!
Can’t wait for the robotic revolution!
If you are interested in getting started with learning Arduino, here’s a quick link to the books recommended by the official Arduino site.
Getting Started with Arduino (Make: Projects)
Making Things Talk: Practical Methods for Connecting Physical Objects
