How can you design robots quickly and cheaply?

1 Use cardboard and duct tape

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to build a robot body is to use cardboard and duct tape. You can cut, fold, and tape cardboard pieces to form the shape and structure of your robot, and then add some decorations, sensors, and motors. Cardboard is lightweight, flexible, and easy to modify, and duct tape is strong, waterproof, and versatile. You can also recycle cardboard boxes and other materials from your home or office.

2 Use Arduino and Raspberry Pi

Another way to design robots quickly and cheaply is to use Arduino and Raspberry Pi, two popular platforms for electronics and programming. Arduino is a microcontroller board that can control sensors, motors, and other devices, and Raspberry Pi is a mini-computer that can run various software and connect to the internet. You can use Arduino and Raspberry Pi together or separately, depending on your robot's functions and features. Both platforms are affordable, widely available, and have a large community of users and resources.

3 Use online tools and libraries

A third way to design robots quickly and cheaply is to use online tools and libraries that can help you with the design, simulation, and testing of your robot. For example, you can use Tinkercad, a free online tool that lets you create 3D models of your robot and export them to a 3D printer or a CNC machine. You can also use ROS, a free open-source software framework that provides libraries and tools for robot development and operation. You can use ROS to communicate with your robot, control its movements, and visualize its data.

4 Use modular and standard components

A fourth way to design robots quickly and cheaply is to use modular and standard components that can be easily assembled and replaced. For example, you can use Lego bricks, servos, gears, and wheels to build a robot chassis and joints, and then connect them to your Arduino or Raspberry Pi. You can also use standard components such as USB cables, batteries, and cameras to power and equip your robot. Using modular and standard components can save you time, money, and space, and also allow you to experiment with different configurations and functions.

5 Use feedback and iteration

A fifth way to design robots quickly and cheaply is to use feedback and iteration, which means testing your robot frequently and making improvements based on the results. You can use feedback from yourself, your friends, your users, or your environment to evaluate your robot's performance, usability, and aesthetics. You can also use iteration to modify your robot's design, code, or hardware based on the feedback. Using feedback and iteration can help you avoid mistakes, solve problems, and optimize your robot's functionality and appearance.

6 Use your creativity and imagination

A sixth and final way to design robots quickly and cheaply is to use your creativity and imagination, which means exploring new ideas, possibilities, and solutions for your robot. You can use your creativity and imagination to inspire your robot's concept, purpose, and personality, and to overcome challenges and limitations. You can also use your creativity and imagination to have fun and enjoy the process of designing your robot. Using your creativity and imagination can make your robot unique, original, and engaging.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?