Building Robots with LEGO Mindstorms
Authors: Mario Ferrari, Giulio Ferrari
Venue:  (2001)

:Building Robots with Lego Mindstorms explains how to build robots using Lego bricks and components. Part One describes the lure of the hobby, and why Lego is an ideal system for beginners. Part Two moves into the practical aspects of robot building, discussing the basics of mechanics, motors, sensors, pneumatics, and navigation, and offering a variety of tips and tricks. Part Three surveys a wide range of possible ideas for building, with the idea of inspiring the creative impulses of the reader rather than offering models for simple replication. About the AuthorMario Ferrari received his first Lego box around 1964, when he was 4. Lego was his favorite toy for many years, until he thought he was too old to play with it. In 1998, the Lego Mindstorms RIS set gave him reason to again have Lego become his main addiction. Mario believes Lego is the closest thing to the perfect toy. He is Managing Director at EDIS, a leader in finishing and packaging solutions and promotional packaging. The advent of the MINDSTORMS product line represented for him the perfect opportunity to combine his interest in IT and robotics with his passion for LEGO bricks, which started during his early childhood. Mario has been a very active member of the online MINDSTORMS community from the beginning and has pushed LEGO robotics to its limits. Mario holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Turin and has always nourished a strong interest for physics, mathematics, and computer science. He is fluent in many programming languages and his background includes positions as an IT manager and as a project supervisor. Mario estimates he owns over 60,000 Lego pieces. Mario works in Modena, Italy, where he lives with his wife Anna and his children Sebastiano and Camilla. Giulio Ferrari is a student in Economics at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, where he also studied Engineering. He is fond of computers and has developed utilities, entertainment software, and Web applications for several companies. Giulio discovered robotics in 1998, with the arrival of MINDSTORMS, and held an important place in the creation of the Italian LEGO community. He shares a love for LEGO bricks with his oldest brother Mario, and a strong curiosity for the physical and mathematical sciences. Giulio also has a collection of 1200 dice, including odd-faced dice and game dice. He studies, works, and lives in Modena, Italy. Technical Editor Ralph Hempel (BASc.EE, P.Eng) is an Independent Embedded Systems Consultant. He provides systems design services, training, and programming to clients across North America. His specialty is in deeply embedded microcontroller applications, which include alarm systems, automotive controls, and the LEGO RCX system. Ralph provides training and mentoring for software development teams that are new to embedded systems and need an in-depth review of the unique requirements of this type of programming. Ralph holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Waterloo and is a member of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers. He lives in Owen Sound, Ontario with his family, Christine, Owen, Eric, and Graham.