R/C Steerable bristlebot

thingiverse

This initial version of a remote-controlled swiveling bristlebot is inspired by Evil Mad Scientist Labs' design (http://www.evilmadscientist.com/article.php/bristlebot). To create an affordable, directionally-steerable bristlebot, two vibration motors and toothbrush heads were utilized; read EMSL's post for more on suitable toothbrushes. The bot scoots across floors at high speeds, resembling a cross between the Scrubbing Bubbles mascot and a hummingbird. A video of an early prototype in action can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bridgewalker/6276616359/in/photostream. The toothbrush heads were removed and affixed to the platform's bottom, ensuring bristles faced one direction for optimal ratcheting action. Various 3V, .5" diameter, .75" long motors were tested with success. Too powerful motors may cause interference between brush sides, affecting steering ability. Hot glue secures the motors and electronics in place. Any R/C controller capable of managing two motors can serve as a control device; this creator repurposed a Deskpet Skitterbot's I/R unit with integrated 70mAh LiPo battery for about 10 minutes of runtime. Reversing motors isn't necessary, and advanced control via an Arduino or similar microprocessor could lead to more intricate movements, but reduce motor speed for smoother operation.