The so-called BEAM robots are characterized by the fact that they usually do not contain power sources. They are charged from any light source. Having accumulated energy, they automatically move quickly, and then recharge.
Instructions
Step 1
Check out the BEAM robotics ideology. This is an abbreviation for Biology, Electronics, Aesthetics, Mechanics. There are a number of other explanations for this abbreviation. Plus, it's a pun: the solar beam is a sunbeam, and many of these robots are solar powered. The main principle of this branch of robotics is not to use microcontrollers in robots. Despite this, it is necessary to use a minimum of parts in its design and make it as light as possible. When making it, try to use volumetric installation to reduce the size.
Step 2
The two main parts of a BEAM-robot - a solar battery and an ultra-miniature motor, take, respectively, from a broken calculator and a mobile phone. Be careful: low-quality calculators use an imitation of a solar battery instead of a solar battery. In the phone, a motor drives the eccentric. If it cannot be removed from the motor shaft, the robot will not drive, but will move randomly due to vibration.
Step 3
Buy any supercapacitor designed for a voltage of at least 5 V. Its capacity can be minimal, the main thing is that it is very small and light. Connect it to the solar panel, observing the polarity.
Step 4
Take a flashing LED (the other will not work) and a regular planar diode (not only non-flashing, but also non-light-emitting). The flashing LED should be rated for a current of about 50 mA. Connect the anode of the flashing LED to the positive of the supercapacitor, its cathode to the cathode of a conventional diode, and the anode of a conventional one to the negative of the supercapacitor. Note that a conventional diode is connected in reverse polarity. This was done on purpose to protect the motor from self-induction voltage surges.
Step 5
Connect the motor in parallel with a conventional diode. If the eccentric is removed, slide a small roller onto the motor shaft.
Step 6
Fasten all parts to each other, for example, with glue, avoiding short circuits between their terminals. Place the robot with the solar panel facing up under a bright lamp. It will begin to move periodically in short jerks.
