I've built a few experimental robots in the past and, to be
honest, they all looked the part. They were nothing more than
circuit boards with wheels glued on.They did help me learn, but
they just didn't feel like completed robots. The main purpose of
this project was to combine electronics and 3D fabrication into
a robot complete in both form and function. A fun robot with a
sleek look and a bit of personality. The second goal was to make
the robot as small as possible, smaller than half a ping-pong
ball (hence the name). In this Instructable I will share what
I've learned while creating the Pingbot. Included is information
about PICAXE Micro-controllers, surface mount soldering, PCB
design, Autodesk's 123D 3D design software and 3D fabrication,
rechargeable lithium-polymer batteries, as well as a few
painting techniques. Included are schematics, a PCB layout,
PICAXE code, 123D model files and pictures of the construction
process. You will also find a wealth of links to detailed
information that is relevant t