Robot Arm
I want to add a small
manipulator. The manipulator I
have in mind is the Crustcrawler
AX- 12 Smart Arm shown in
Figure 10. The Smart Arm
utilizes seven AX- 12 Dynamixel
actuators. For more details,
check them out at www.crust
crawler.com/products/smart
arm/ index.php?prod= 12.
It is my plan to place some
sensors on the arm, as well as a
Pocket PC like the one shown
back in Figure 3. Even if I use
another controller, I think a face
mounted on a Pocket PC FIGURE 11
controlled by the arm would be
very cool and invite a great amount of attention at the next
Robot Fest I attend.
FIGURE 12
Tools
Before I close out this introduction, I think it’s
important that you understand what kind of tools you may
need for this project. First, you will need both Philips and
flat head screwdrivers. I recommend various sizes. Many of
the machine screws I will use will be #10 and smaller, so
size your screwdrivers accordingly. A set of small wrenches
will also come in handy. In lieu of these, a small crescent
wrench will suffice.
There is no way of getting away from it... you have to
have a drill for this project. As a minimum, I recommend an
electric drill like the one shown in Figure 11. Look for a drill
with both variable speed and reverse. If you get one with a
clutch, you can use it to drive and remove screws. A drill
with a high/low gear option will give you more speed and
power options. There are times when a drill press like the
one shown in Figure 12 will come in handy. They give you
more control over the drilling process and allow you to use
various accessories like sanding drums. A drill press is not a
requirement but may come in handy. Check out your local
classifieds. You may be able to get a bench top model for
$15-$25. In addition to the drill, you will also need a set of
bits. You can purchase these one at a time or in sets.
In addition to the drill, I also recommend a rotary tool
like the one shown in Figure 13. You can use this for drilling
FIGURE 13
small holes, but they excel at sanding and cutting. Many
rotary tools come with a complete bit set. There are
many additional accessories available like cutoff wheels and
various grinding bits. Again, this is not 100% required but
can make some tasks easier.
For the electronics, you are going to need a pair of
needle-nose pliers and wire cutters. In addition, you will
need a soldering iron like the one shown in Figure 14.
When purchasing a soldering iron, make sure you get one
FIGURE 14
FIGURE 15
SERVO 08.2008 59
