Author(s): William Gurstelle

New Releases | Science & Technology

This is the definitive guide to designing and building warrior robots. It walks robot enthusiasts of all ages step-by-step through the design and building process, enabling them to create any number of customised warrior robots. With a strong emphasis on safety, chapters include designing a robot, choosing materials, radio control systems, electric motors, robot batteries, motor speed controllers, gasoline engines, and drive trains. Clear instructions are accompanied by photographs, line drawings, and detailed diagrams throughout. For inspiration, a colour section showcases a variety of glorious fighting machines along with their statistics. Profiles of well-known designers and builders also enliven the text. For beginners, there is machine shop 101 and robot physics, and, of course, chapters on weaponry that include spinner robots, thwackbots, cutting blade robots, lifters, and chameleon robots. When the bot of their dreams is built, suggestions on where to compete and game-day strategies and tactics help readers take the next step. An extensive resource section lists parts suppliers, pertinent Web sites, a radio frequency chart, and a glossary.