Robot Spotlight: JohnNXT 5

Daniele Benedettelli, a member of LEGO's MDP (Mindstorms Developer Program), has designed and built an NXT version of Johnny5 from the 1986 movie Short Circuit. Check out more pictures and a link to his MDP page...

Danny is one of a few select builders that have been chosen to take part in a Mindstorms Developer Program. His MDP page can be found at http://mindstorms.lego.com/MeetMDP/DannyB.aspx. He also has a personal webpage featuring Johnny5 at http://unitutor.unisi.it/~danny/JohnNXT.htm.

JohnNXT 5 is based upon Danny's older RCX Johnny5. JohnNXT 5 features two NXT Intelligent Bricks interfacing via bluetooth technology. The first NXT unit is in charge of moving via a treaded system and raising and lowering the torso of JohnNXT. It also controls the sensor input from line following light sensor, a stereo system consisting of two sound sensors, and the ultrasonic sensor on his head.

The second NXT unit moves johnny's arms and laser, it also provides for head movement. An interesting note about JohnNXT's arms: When the motor turns one way his arms unfold, the hands open up, and the wrists turn. When the motor is put in reverse his wrists turn, hands close, and the arms fold back up.

JohnNXT 5 can perfrom a range of tasks such as following a line, wall, sounds, objects, and many more options! Now with the NXT it would even be possible to have JohnNXT 5 play sound clips from the original movie!
Check out these pictures and more information at http://unitutor.unisi.it/~danny/JohnNXT.htm