HitchBot. Ever heard of him?
He was a simple computer as to where he would be taken by kind people as a ‘hitchhiker’ all around the world. His computer allowed his GPS and Camera to take a photo and send it to the home base, also including where he was.
Sadly, he met his end in the US, being torn limb from limb and thrown into a ditch.
I want to take that idea, but a bit of a step up.
Design One: Self-Moving
Right off the bat, I saw two issues:
One: How would it get a battery?
Two: It can’t move fast at all, could it?
I’m very new to robots, and a 14-year-old, so I need help lol. I believe the first problem could be overcome by solar panels, giving the battery charge. The second I have no clue without draining the battery faster then the panels can replenish.
Now onto the idea design:
I kind of want a screen as a face, to show emotions like the original HitchBot. But this one might show the text (assuming I don’t add sound), and Twitter posts if we go through, etc.
Make a small neck for a smooth transition to an oval-shaped body, and tank-like mobility (Idk what it’s called. The strap around the wheels, moving it forward). Black and white, quite simple.
As for technology, I want it to be able to take a photo every hour and be able to send it to me, along with its location. I imagine it could use Google Maps to set a route, possibly traveling halfway across the state, since it’s very slow. There is the option to attempt a live stream, but I don’t think it’s possible since I’m not even sure it could take a photo without wifi and send it to me. Maybe import a portable wifi machine to it?
Next up, sensors. If something approaches it, it stops and talks/the screen makes some text. If something moves or grabs it, it starts beeping and the screen flashing red, also sending a warning to me. Now the issue is that if something grabs it, how can it get its bearings after being moved?
This is a good idea, but now toward the next design:
Design 2: Hitchhiker
Keep the screen and design, but without the mobility. Also keep solar panels, if needed. To clarify, I mean take away the tracks completely. Keep all the technology, and this time instead of a warning when picked up, it flashes text/audio and a smile, asking to be picked up.
If you have ideas on how to get started on this, let me know! I think it would be a fun project.
I’ll post picture designs later.
If you got questions, I’m open to answering.
Signing off for now,
Strike
Update one: Brainstorm
Alright, I discussed it further with a friend.
Just some more additions: for solar panels we could add a backpack. The panels can be lifted (upon unlocking so the panels dont bounce while moving) and people could put notes and items for others to find OR trash. This idea is so people near it could throw away things
I found a motor I think might work, but I’m concerned about battery supply. I also stuck with the idea for audio and eyes on the computer screen, for more personality.
I’ll update later tonight probably.
Update 2: Lighting and Crash
If Orion crashes whilst talking to a person, the screen will show this text:
Hi! I’m Orion. I seemed to have had an internal error, whether speaking to someone or just hitting something that wasn’t there before. Give me some time while I get my bearings…
Wheels: Leveled/Crooked
Camera: Online
Elevation: Normal
GPS: Online
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Online
Update 3: Cameras
More design updates!
I saw a thermal imaging camera online and thought that would be a great way for Orion to differentiate between humans and background, and ability to get around objects.
Along with that, I thought of another way if the thermal imaging is proven incorrect. After introducing himself, Orion will wait 15 seconds. If there are no words or the screen is not tapped, he will move on. No time to waste!
The shell design is being worked on. I’ll post the design as soon as it’s finished
I want to code Orion to be able to tell me how he’s doing; My battery is normal and I am getting power. Or my battery is low and it’s night. I have gone into battery conservation mode.
If he has a conversation, he will send:
“I just had a lovely conversation with [Name]! Here’s the transcript:”
However, this is still far off. I have resources to begin work.
Signing off for now~
Version 1 Design
Orion V1
Tablet for a face, subtitles below eyes when speaking. Round head with speakers as ears, and a rounded back with a flat belly to avoid, if tumbling, rolling off course. A black stripe across the chest to resemble a knapsack, which has a solar panel for a lid, charging the tablet and wheels batteries.
Track wheels. Although this will slow Orion down, it will help him keep his traction. He will turn by stopping one track and pivoting on the other.
Unknown motor for now.
Planning to use Audrino.