How to build a robot?

Question

I study computer science, and all this Artificial Intelligence stuff has got me interested in robots. Of course I'm not talking about anything really sophisticated, just something like an engine on wheels that avoid crashing into obstacles. Does anybody know where to start? Which programming language to build? And what other materials I need.

Thanks!

*what programming language to USE. Lol how did I make that mistake.

Answer 1

Personally i think its best to start at the bottom and work from there.
If you're interested initially in building simple robots for the pleasure then check the beam forum here : http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/beam/
From there you can look at building more complex forms using programming.
Picaxe robots again are simple and are a good starting point programming wise. The Picaxe forum is here http://www.rev-ed.co.uk/picaxe/forum/default.asp Not all posts there are robot related so you'll have to search.

The problem with robots utilizing artificial intelligence is you need to have good electronic skills and even better electronic knowlege ( were talking knowing microprocessors inside out). You also need a very good understanding of programming and how to incorporate them both very well into your intended design.
Probably the best bet would be to trawl the net to get a feel of where you are at in this whole picture and decide for yourself!

Answer 2

Well, since you're a Comp Sci person, you probably haven't had a lot of hardware experience. This isn't a task for the weak at heart. The problem is the interface between the real (analog) world and the digital world where you'll have your software running. You may want to try looking at some of the kits in Edmund Scientific and playing mostly with writing your own code. The language you use if you build your own will depend on the controller you choose.

Answer 3

look into remote control technoledgy