Walking Robot Dog

The Walking Robot Dog is an attempt to create the simplest dog-like robot possible, while using as few motors as necessary and still aiming to make it look cool.

It’s a fun and interesting build for more advanced users, but consider it more of a proof of concept. The robot uses only two servo motors, yet it can be programmed to walk in four directions, which I think is quite an achievement. However, the leg design in the first version starts to wobble and wear down over time, so I decided to replace it with popsticks in version 2.

How to read robot plans:

1. BLACK LINES – cut this line first
2. RED LINES – detailed shapes cut after the black lines
3. BLUE DASHED LINES – bending lines traced with scissors

If you plan to build this robot consider making upgraded version. New model is much more sturdy and walks much better. The video below shows it in the Arduino version but the construction process is universal – simply plug in Micro:Bit instead of Arduino.

Unfortunately due to memory limitations bluetooth control with LOFI Control App works only with Micro:Bit v2

Your robot is functioning correctly from a technical standpoint if it successfully connects via Bluetooth, and the motors operate in sequential manner.

However, to get it moving i n four directions the main challenge lies in calibration:

1. Servo Horn Adjustment:
   • Align the servo horns properly. When the motor is set to position 90, the servo horn should be perpendicular (at a right angle) to the motor shaft. Aim to achieve this alignment as accurately as possible.
2. Code Adjustments:
   • The robot won’t function perfectly immediately after assembling. You need to fine-tune the settings in your code.
   • Look for the ON START section in the code, where motors are set to FRONT_ZERO and BACK_ZERO. At these zero positions, your robot (for instance, a robot dog) should be standing straight.
3. Fine-Tuning Movements:
   • Adjust the range of motion for each movement from these zero positions. You need to carefully set how far the motors swing left and right.

This calibration process involves experimentation and trial-and-error adjustments until your robot moves smoothly in all directions.

To add remote control to the robot dog with Micro:Bit v1 use radio communication – you will need seccond Micro:Bit board as the transmitter/controller.

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