Page 27 - Robot Builder's Bonanza

xxvi INTRODUCTION

Inside Robot Builder’s Bonanza

This book is part tutorial and part reference. It tells you what you need to know to build a
robot, plus a whole lot more about the art and science of robotics.
Robot Builder’s Bonanza, Fourth Edition, is all about having fun while learning how to
design, construct, and use small robots. Hands- on plans take you from building basic motor-
ized platforms to giving the machine a brain— and teaching it to walk and talk and obey com-
mands.
This book is about inspiring you— in the guise of a how- to book on constructing various
robots and components. The modular projects in this book can be combined to create all
kinds of highly intelligent and workable robots of all shapes and sizes. Mix and match your
projects the way you like.
The projects in this book are a treasure chest of information and ideas on making thinking
machines. You’ll find what you need to know to construct the essential building blocks of a
personal robot.

Absolutely brand- new to all things robotics and electronics? Then be sure to visit the RBB Online
Support site for the free My First Robot tutorial lessons. See Appendix A, “RBB Online Support,”
ON THE
W E B for more details.

ABOUT THE FOURTH EDITION

This book is a fully updated and greatly expanded revision of Robot Builder’s Bonanza, first
published in 1987, and then updated again in 2001 and 2006.
Previous editions of this book have been perennial bestsellers. I’m proud to say this is one
of the most widely read books ever published on amateur robotics.
In the pages that follow, you’ll find updated coverage of exciting technologies like the latest
Arduino and PICAXE microcontrollers; hands- on projects using unique forms of light, vision,
and sound sensors; robot construction using high- grade wood, plastics, and metals; advanced
servo and DC motor control; and rapid prototyping techniques for building bots in record time.
With this edition is a special emphasis on construction plans that are not only affordable,
but easily reproducible through the use of commonly available parts. To make it easier for
first- time builders, none of the projects in this book require expensive or elaborate tools.

FREE ONLINE CONTENT, PARTS FINDER, VIDEOS, BONUS GOODIES
This book comes with free online content: the RBB Online Support site. See Appendix A for
the lowdown. On the support site you’ll find:
• My First Robot— a series of easy- to- follow fully illustrated lessons that teach you the basics
of electronics, soldering, robot planning, and construction
• Project Parts Finder— where to find all the parts for the projects in this book, including
sources and part numbers
• Animated and interactive learning tools, including circuit simulators
• New and updated links to Web sites and manufacturers
• Enhanced and updated robot e- plans
• How- to videos, bonus articles, tutorials on robot construction, and more

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