How do I create and program a robot?

Question

For my science fair project, I want to create a computer that can literally move around. I would want to input instructions into it through some sort of user interface. What I really need help with is with how I create a computer program that can turn a motor on and off, pick up on sensor 'trips', and has a user interface that can move the robot around.

I have no clue where to start. Help?!

Answer 1

you can make a robot out of legos and control it using Java programs. Check this out:

http://today.java.net/pub/a/today/2005/02/21/robotics.html

here's where you buy stuff:

http://mindstorms.lego.com/

Answer 2

It sounds to me like you need to look a lot into electronics and various components. A transistor is an electronic switch that involves no moving equipment and a computer uses a lot of these to work (on or off.. 1s and 0s).

A transistor can be used in conjunction with a relay, and in that relay, the motor can be connected. When the transistor is on, the motor will turn on, and vice versa.

There should be plenty of resources on the internet on electronics. It should be a simple matter of researching this.

A computer program can use a serial port and send signals through to the robot. These signals can turn transistors on or off.

Answer 3

You might want to look into the Lego Mindstorms NXT robot building kit. It comes with everything you need, software, motors, sensors, and instructions.

http://shop.lego.com/ByTheme/Product.aspx?p=8527&cn=17&d=70

Answer 4

Try here.
http://www.floodhound.com/