Exploring the World of Home Robots: From AI Labs to Modern Devices

Have you ever owned a robot? While the concept may seem more like science fiction, I can recall a time when I was deeply involved with robotic technology firsthand. My journey began in 1975 at the Stanford AI Lab, where I worked with the Scheinman arm, a marvel of its time, powered by a DEC PDP-10 running SAIL. This device was pioneering for its programming language, sensors, and accuracy. Fast forward to 1978 when, during my time at IBM, I encountered the Klutz robot arm, a technically advanced specimen, which ran on an IBM System 7 and utilized AML. According to a Japanese press article, it was reputed to be the world's most advanced robot in those terms.

From 1978 to 1984, I embarked on a lecture tour entitled 'Have Robot Will Travel,' showcasing a Microbot Teachmover across the United States. Fast forward to 2020, and I now have a Roomba, a highly advanced modern robot that handles cleaning tasks. Additionally, over the past decade, I have had access to a robot arm kit but have never assembled it.

Hands-On Robot Building Experience

I have indeed built robots, though nothing particularly advanced. These creations have accomplished simple tasks or attempted to navigate my apartment. For example, one of my earlier robots followed me around. Growing up, my father was an electrical engineer, and from a young age, I was introduced to programming. These early experiences gave me a significant advantage, and I highly recommend that others take up this rewarding hobby. Building a robot is an incredibly absorbing and fulfilling activity.

High School STEM Project

One memorable experience was a STEM competition in high school where I and some friends built a robot from scratch. Using foam carbon fiber rods and 3D-printed parts, we constructed the frame. The electronics were simple yet powerful, including an Arduino for control, ultrasonic sensors for obstacle avoidance, and a motor driver with DC motors. A LiPo battery with a power regulator completed the setup. These components were connected without the benefit of PCB design knowledge, which would have greatly simplified the process.

Our goal was to make the robot navigate through our school using GPS mapping and pathfinding algorithms. Unfortunately, this method did not yield the results we had hoped for. However, the experience was invaluable, and we learned a great deal through trial and error. We also experimented with rudimentary features like simple obstacle avoidance and basic navigation.

Robot Kits for Hobbyists

While I have never purchased a fully assembled robot, I have built one from a kit. This robot was a joint effort with some friends for a school competition. It was assembled using foam carbon fiber rods and 3D-printed parts. The electronics were straightforward, consisting primarily of an Arduino, ultrasonic sensors, a motor driver, a few DC motors, a LiPo battery, and a power regulator. Unfortunately, I lack the expertise in PCB design to make this process more efficient. This experience was not only educational but also deeply rewarding.

Robot kits come in various forms, from simple DIY robots to more advanced models that can be programmed to perform complex tasks. For hobbyists, these kits offer a practical way to learn about robotics and electronics while creating something functional and entertaining. Whether you're building a robot for STEM competitions, home automation, or simple fun, the journey of building and programming these devices is both exhilarating and educational.