Robot Companions

MORE THAN TOYS OR INTELLIGENT APPLIANCES -- MECHANICAL FRIENDS AND VALUED ASSISTANTSInside "Robot Companions" you'll find all the details, plans, and information you need to make a robot partner part of your daily life, at a price you can afford. Author E. Oliver Severin, originator of some of the technologies that make robots friendly, useful, and educational, shows you how to find or build your own robot helpmate -- either from commercial kits or an assembly of separate, off-the-shelf parts. With "Robot Companions," you'll learn how to build your own robot for purposes such as companionship, supervision of the elderly, tutoring the young, doing household chores, and much more. The book delves into essential enabling technologies such as mobility, voice, communications, touch, sight, and smell response so you'll understand the mechanics behind form, function, and "personality." If you're looking for an industrious mechanical someone to help with the housework, care for the kids, even watch over aging parents without complaint, "Robot Companions" belongs on your shelf! ENTER THE AMAZING WORLD OF FRIENDLY 'BOTS * Facial expressions and responses to voice * Artificial Intelligence and meaningful response * Educational, mentoring, and minding abilities * The fantastic future of companionable 'bots! * Technologies that make them work * Services and tasks they can perform * Plans for building your own * Kits and off-the-shelf 'bots * Surprising affordability