The world of robotics is expanding rapidly, captivating enthusiasts and creators alike with innovations that range from entertaining to practical. Whether they are serving drinks, cracking jokes, or engaging in combat, robots are increasingly prevalent in our daily lives. At Make:, we are particularly enthusiastic about the potential of robotics, and with National Robotics Week upon us, were eager to showcase some truly inspiring projects that demonstrate the creativity and ingenuity of makers across the globe. This week, we highlight a selection of innovative robot projects that are sure to ignite your passion for robotics, whether youre a seasoned builder or a curious newcomer.

Understand the World of Combat Robotics: A Detailed Guide

One fascinating arena in the realm of robotics is combat robotics, where builders create machines designed specifically for battle. These robots are built for various purposes, from exploring inhospitable environments to assisting with mundane tasks, or simply for the thrill of competition. In his insightful article, Peter Garnache provides an in-depth overview of the different weight classes that participating robots fall intofrom the nimble Fairyweight to the formidable Heavyweight class. This guide not only outlines what to expect from each category but also explores class modifiers and the types of weapons commonly used in robot combat. Whether youre drawn to the glory of victory or the financial risks of battle, this primer equips you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions as you embark on your journey into combat robotics.

Construct Your First Combat Robot

For those who are keen to dive into the world of combat robotics, Brandon Bennett Young introduces a fantastic entry-level project: Kerfuffle, a 1lb Antweight robot that is perfect for beginners. This design features 3D-printed components that are not only cost-effective but also easy to replace if they sustain damage during battles. Furthermore, the robot's lifter arm serves a dual purpose, acting both as a weapon and a means for the robot to flip itself back onto its feet after a tough hit. Once newcomers master the lifter's functionality, Brandon provides additional tips for experimenting with various weapon designs to enhance their combat robots further.

Building with AI: A Non-Destructive Approach to Robotics

If combat robots dont pique your interest, perhaps a more constructive project will. In a collaborative effort, Reade Richard and Andy Forest introduce a beginner-friendly AI bot that emphasizes creativity without the chaos of battle. This project does not require a 3D printer; instead, it calls for some basic cardboard cutting. Utilizing the easy-to-use micro:bit board, the tutorial guides you step-by-step in creating your first AI project, which you can run on a toy truck you build at home.

Create Your Own AI Companion

In a project sponsored by DigiKey, Jovan Moss and Sean Himmel showcase an exciting development in AI robotics. They constructed an engaging shoulder-mounted companion bot named Digit, which operates using a large language model (LLM) on an embedded computer. This sophisticated bot is capable of engaging in conversation with users, offering a level of interactivity that is quite impressive, especially considering it runs offline. Sean details the mechanisms behind the LLM, providing insights into their design choices and guiding users on how to set up their own version using a Raspberry Pi 5.

Crafting a Cuddly Robot with Interactive Features

For those seeking a more endearing robotic companion, Debra Ansell has developed a plush robot that is both huggable and interactive. This cuddly creation incorporates servos, LEDs, and touch sensors, allowing it to respond to human interaction in delightful ways. Dubbed Rosie the Radiant Rodent, this robot runs Circuit Python on an Adafruit Feather, making it easier for users to expand its capabilities. Debra not only provides an extensive guide on how to create this adorable robot but also shares additional examples to showcase its diverse functionalities.

Animating Your Robotics Projects: Musical Ghosts

The intricacies of animatronics can be daunting, yet Evan McMahon introduces a solution through Bottango, a free software designed for animating robots. Using a pair of dancing ghost figures as a case study, Evan demonstrates how to simplify the coding process for creating animatronic movements. While these charming ghosts make for excellent holiday decorations, the techniques shared can be easily adapted for more complex robotic designs, offering endless possibilities for creativity.

Revolutionizing the Rubiks Cube: Smart3

In a remarkable feat of engineering, Takashi Kaburagi has crafted a self-solving Rubiks Cube known as Smart3. Its awe-inspiring to think that the world record for solving a Rubiks Cube is just over three seconds, while this intricate robot takes time to create yet showcases a thrilling level of sophistication. Even in 2025, the compact technology and functionality packed into this self-solving cube is astounding. The fact that Takashi achieved this without any prior CAD or 3D printing experience serves as an encouraging testament to the accessibility of robotics for aspiring builders.

As National Robotics Week unfolds, these projects represent just a glimpse into the vibrant world of robotics. Whether you're interested in combat, artificial intelligence, or cuddly companions, theres a robot project for everyones taste. Join in the excitement and unleash your creativity by exploring these inspiring endeavors!