First Robotics Competition teams are busy building robots

Central Jersey FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams are very busy building their large, complex, sophisticated 130 lb. robots as they are winding down the “Build Phase” of the 2012 FRC season. This year’s game is called “Rebound Rumble” and robots...

Tiny magnetically-levitated robots could change the game for robotics

The past five to ten years have seen the birth of microbotics. A whole range of components that are vital for building robots, such as actuators, motors or batteries, became available in micro-scale only fairly recently. Finally enthusiasts got what they needed to put their own systems together, and the whole field benefited from their work. But there are obvious limitations to scaling down ...

Human Waste-Powered Robots May Be Future of Machines

Today's robots that fly, jump or roll around must refuel or recharge as does any gadget that runs out of energy. Tomorrow's new generation of self-sustaining robots might keep going nearly forever by grazing on dead insects, rotting plant matter or even human waste. [More]

Robots are the lesson at Oakwood Friends

Close to 20 elementary school-aged children set to work today building robots that launch marshmallows or follow a set track as the second day of a robotic camp held at the Oakwood Friends School got under way.

The Breeding Ground for Young Engineers

Chris Fox, Associate Editor, PD&D Remember BattleBots? Imagine a smarter and less sinister robot competition that fosters youth interest in engineering. Topics:  Design and Development Electrical and Electronics