Check out this awesome one-eyed robot that cajoles money from unsuspecting passersby. The Gimme Robot, created by Chris Eckert, is a two-axis numerically controlled sculpture that pans a room looking for people.
Once a target is found, they are tracked eyeball to eyeball until they drop a few coins into the tin on the front. Watch the video after the jump to see the Gimme Robot in action.
Technical Specifications and Components
The sculpture is controlled by an Arduino Pro Mini. Stepper motors are driven by two Pololu A4983 Stepper Motor Driver Carriers. The microcontroller, stepper drivers, and sensors are all mounted on a custom circuit board made with Eagle CAD. This setup allows for precise control and smooth movement, ensuring that the robot can effectively track and engage with its targets.
The Arduino Pro Mini is a compact and versatile microcontroller board that is widely used in robotics and DIY projects. It is known for its reliability and ease of programming, making it an ideal choice for this type of interactive sculpture. The Pololu A4983 Stepper Motor Driver Carriers are also highly regarded in the maker community for their efficiency and performance, providing the necessary torque and precision to move the robot’s eye smoothly.
The custom circuit board, designed using Eagle CAD, integrates all the components seamlessly. Eagle CAD is a popular software tool for designing printed circuit boards (PCBs), and it allows for the creation of intricate and highly functional designs. By using this software, Chris Eckert was able to ensure that all the electronic components of the Gimme Robot work together harmoniously.
Interactive Art and Social Commentary
The Gimme Robot is not just a technological marvel; it also serves as a piece of interactive art and social commentary. By engaging with passersby and soliciting money, the robot challenges our perceptions of charity, technology, and human interaction. It raises questions about the nature of giving and the role of technology in our daily lives.
Interactive art has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows for a more engaging and immersive experience for the audience. The Gimme Robot is a prime example of how technology can be used to create thought-provoking and interactive art pieces. By using sensors and motors, the robot can interact with people in real-time, creating a dynamic and ever-changing experience.
Moreover, the Gimme Robot can be seen as a commentary on the increasing presence of technology in our lives. As robots and automated systems become more prevalent, they begin to take on roles that were traditionally reserved for humans. The Gimme Robot, with its ability to solicit money, highlights this shift and encourages us to reflect on the implications of a more automated world.
More information about the Gimme Robot can be found on the Chris Eckert website. Here, you can explore more of Chris Eckert’s work and learn about his other innovative projects. His website provides a deeper insight into the creative process behind the Gimme Robot and showcases the breadth of his artistic and technical skills.
Via Bot Junkie
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