Who Can Build a Fighting Robot? “You can,” says William Gurstelle, author of the book “BUILDING BOTS” --- Designing and building Warrior Robots. The author continues by explaining that an extreme level of technical knowledge and geekiness is not required. Moreover, graduate engineers and skilled machinists don’t have to be part of the team (of course, they may be helpful!).

“BUILDING BOTS” --- Designing and building Warrior Robots. The author continues by explaining that an extreme level of technical knowledge and geekiness is not required. Moreover, graduate engineers and skilled machinists don’t have to be part of the team (of course, they may be helpful!).

“BUILDING BOTS” provides a single source of understandable information about how you go about designing a bot. The author does this with the goal of getting you started as a fighting bot builder before your enthusiasm and excitement shrivel in the face of motor data graphs, incomprehensible machine design formulas, many pages of dense, dry technical information, and lots of effort searching all over the internet to find all the information you need for your project.

This book is different! It will help you get started in the sport and build your first bot. In his introduction, Gurstelle presents a “Robot builders aptitude test.” His list of questions can be answered YES, I CAN LEARN, or NO. For example: 1) I know how to drill holes using power tools. 2) I like being part of a team and working with other people. 3) I can use a joystick to control a video game or a radio-controlled car. 4) I know how to solder electrical connections.

Next, the author outlines the contents of each chapter and provides a step-by-step analysis of what is required to develop a functional BOT within budget and skill constraints. His primary emphasis clearly is on building and operating a “winner,” not on earning an advanced technology degree.
The first chapter talks about safety. Since the robots will be constructed to beat the competition, they are likely to be heavy and powerful. Moreover, lifting mechanisms, hammers, and spinning cutting blades can do unbelievable damage to carbon-based life forms.

Next, you are introduced to the important decisions you will have to make before you start construction. What kind of robot do you want to build? Who will be on your team? Do you have adequate cash to build your dream bot, or should you start with a simpler and less expensive one? Do you have a clean construction space? Do you have enough time to design and build your bot for the next competition?

From these beginnings, you are introduced to the guts of fighting robots. You will read about how the various parts are selected and then put together. Following chapters go into detail about each of the parts of the robot, including radio-control systems, motors, motor controllers, drive train parts, electrical power sources, and environmental sensors. Then you are introduced to the various materials that are used in bot frames and weapons. You will learn how to select the best materials for each part of your bot.

Later chapters detail the physics of robot construction, in-depth information about the various weapons that are put on warrior robots, the use of fluid power and hydraulics, and how to be successful on competition day. Additional resources are listed, along with a glossary and lists of part suppliers, tournament rules, and available radio frequencies
Although a great deal of detail is provided in many of the chapters, it is safe to skip over a lot during your first reading. Once you get started, you will go back to those chapters to get additional information, as you need it. You’ll also refer to the source lists and definitions often.
Throughout his presentation of the technical and design details in this book, the author provides personal asides about his approach to robotics, to local robot tournaments, and to the future acceptance of combat robotics as an exciting sport. “Building Bots” should be one of the first books on your robotics bookshelf

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