5 Real Robots Made From Everyday Stuff - 7:00 AM The popular
image of robotics research involves big budgets, state-of-the-
art technology and the latest materials. But in fact, a lot of
cutting-edge research is done on the cheap, using things you
probably have around the house. Coming up with ways to build
simple, inexpensive prototypes makes it possible for researchers
try lots of variations quickly and easily. Once perfected, these
designs can be applied to more complex machines – although some
researchers are looking into low-tech robots as an end in
themselves! Having spent the last year working on a kids’ book
of simple robotics projects, I’ve been fascinated to discover
how many robotics innovators are using everyday crafts materials
and basic components in their work. When I started, I despaired
of finding “cardboard-and-duct tape” type projects that kids
would still find impressive. Boy, was I wrong! With just a
little tweaking and substitution, I was able to adapt many of
these real experimental robo