Sunday 8 June 2008


Technology is a broad concept that deals with the usage and knowledge of tools and crafts, and how it affects the ability to control and adapt to the environment. In human society, it is a consequence of science and engineering, although several technological advances predate the two concepts. Technology is a term with origins in the Greek language: "technologia", "τεχνολογία" — "techne", "τέχνη" ("craft") and "logia", "λογία" ("saying").[1] However, a strict definition is elusive; "technology" can refer to material objects of use to humanity, such as machines, hardware or utensils, but can also encompass broader themes, including systems, methods of organization, and techniques. The term can either be applied generally or to specific areas: examples include "construction technology", "medical technology", or "state-of-the-art technology". Other species have also been observed to have created and used technology, including non-human primates, dolphins, and crows.

what do I need to start?

Obviously the first is MONEY. Robots can get expensive. A skilled roboticist can build a robot for next to nothing ($50, for example). He would often have collected enough stuff over the years that he would not have to go and buy most parts. He also would know how to build his parts instead of buying them pre-made, as well as have the skills to improvise. However the beginner does not have these options. You can make most of your robot out of parts in your house, but don't expect to make your first robot McGyver style with just rubber bands and toothpicks. Expect to spend good money for your first 2 or 3 robots. About $100-$200 minimum on your first robot. Ask your parents for it, tell them its educational or something. Tell them you can win money in contests to pay them back. Tell them it will help you get into your university of choice or get you that neat robotics internship. Tell them it will keep you off the streets or from doing drugs. Get a freakin job! You can also apply for grants at your school or university, and even ask companies for money. Tell them their donation gives them tax breaks or something. I have raised $4k+ for all my robots together. I even know one guy who got a $20k donation for a single robot! Your future robots will become more affordable as you become more skilled and have more useful parts around your place. That is another thing, find a place to build your robot. Join a robotics club. Often members will loan you parts, tools, equipment, and that ever priceless help and advice you will need. I remember asking a half dozen people for help before even starting my first robot. You should also read my tutorial on how to pay for robots. Ok I got my bling money, now lets spend it!..............(click here)

Human And Robots

A humanoid robot is an autonomous robot because it can adapt to changes in its environment or itself and continue to reach its goal. This is the main difference between humanoids and other kinds of robots. In this context, some of the capacities of a humanoid robot may include, among others:
self maintenance (recharge itself)
autonomous learning (learn or gain new capabilities without outside assistance, adjust strategies based on the surroundings and adapt to new situations)
avoiding harmful situations to people, property and itself
safe interacting with human beings and the environment
Like other mechanical robots, humanoids refer to the following basic components too: Sensing, Actuating and Planning and Control. Since they try to simulate the human structure and behaviour and they are autonomous systems, most of the times humanoid robots are more complex than other kinds of robots(more info click here)