relax

LED lights

Easy inexpensive LED lights to wear - More DIY How To Projects

I wrote an "instructable" on making inexpensive wearable lights.

Robot revolt

The International Robots, Vision & Motion Control Show just finished and it was covered in the Chicago Tribune.

Toyota Trumpet Player Headlines Emerging Robotics Pavilion

This amazing robot is one of Toyota's partner robots. I knew Honda had a human-like robot named ASIMO but I didn't know Toyota was involved in this type of robot. Of course any manufacturer today needs to be current on robotic assembly tools but this is a different type of robot.

The story in the Chicago Tribune was very good and brought up the idea of a robot revolt. It also points out the different view of robots between Americans and Japanese (who I believe lead in robotics).

How long before the all robot rock band?

another use for the roomba

Looks like it would entertain the dog all day.

face off with clown face

Just a little action on the coffee table.

Of course how much action do you expect from tiny watch batteries. If you have seen the other video clips, you'll recognize the clown face. He gets around.

modified toys hex bugs new level

When I stop and think about it, I've modified toys since I was young. The better word for it is customized. The custom cars were the ultimate but being too young and too broke I had fun with model cars and slot cars (note to self - post something about slot cars).

I have posted about the hex bug before. Most recently I found a new use for an old cellphone battery. Just crude modifications with a battery and LED. Here's that post.

I just found a site that takes hacking the hex bug to another whole level - say hexadecimal.

Now this looks more professional - but I still like my clown head.

Applied Inspirations offers the details of an extensive hex bug hack. So if you want more from your $10 hexbug take a look.

Now here's an idea - thinking of my last post about GPS - add GPS to the hex bug and map something. Of course the hexbug doesn't travel over uneven or soft surfaces.

too big of project for me

Know anything about Tesla coils?

They are named after Nicola Tesla who was a leader in promoting AC power. He had the idea of capturing power from Niagara Falls.

Well anyway, I came across this guy from downunder (aussie, OZ) who has an interesting hobby. Here's some pictures (many many more there) from his site. Oh he is sitting IN HIS CAR.

How about this to replace that stupid car alarm??

Beside making Tesla coils from old microwave parts, he also collects pens. I think he would have fit right-in with the Airfone lab crew.

If that pen collection doesn't make you relate to him, how about this power supply??

big eyed version of bristle bot

I wonder if I should do a better job with the masking tape? It looks a little sloppy.

Well as you can see I'm slow at getting stuff up on this blog. BTW, that's the same small bristle bot (toothbrush and small motor) as I used in the previous video with clown face.