Introduction to Robotics (H)

Have you ever played with LEGOs? If so, you may like this part of the course where you can combine block coding with LEGO to create your own robot that can perform simple tasks like picking up items, following lines of certain colors, and moving using a photo sensor. 

In order to make a robot perform functions and complete tasks, you need to represent information in a way that the robot can understand. By using block coding, you will be able to create and modify programs.

Programming blocks are a preliminary way of introducing yourself to coding. While syntax is something you can pick up for different langauges, understanding the fundamentals of programming through block programming is arguably more important.

Once you've become proficient in block programming through Scratch, you will be able to create more complex programs that utilize multiple block elements to create a larger program! This will allow the robot to perform a more diverse range of actions. 

Do you have a RING or a facial-recognition device on your phone? These are very complex applications of sensors used in the modern world. This unit will introduce you to the fundamentals of using sensors. 

Sometimes, sensors track colors instead of movement. This can allow robots to follow lines of certain light frequencies and differentiate between things of different color. Learn how to manipulate color through programming and apply it to your robot. 

Brick Buttons and Rotation Sensors influence the program while it is running. If you want to control your robot remotely, you can use brick buttons and rotation sensors to achieve this. 

Cardboard is usually seen as clumsy or weak. Using engineering methods, however, we can create quite a firm foundation like a chair. 

Understanding the mechanics of beams, axles, connector blocks, and motors can help you build more efficient robots and better models. 

Using gears can help your machine's efficiency improve or worsen, so understanding the fundamentals behind how gears work is important. Whether you want the machine to work faster or slower, counting the number of teeth on certain gears and using them to your advantage is essential. 

A Formula EV3 is a race car that you can create using a LEGO Mindstorm. Using your comprehension of the ideas presented earlier in the class, you will be able to build, code, and control your race car. 

Robots are cool, but have you ever seen a robot ant??? Probably not. In this unit, you will design, program, and create Anty, the robot ant. What makes this project particularly difficult is the number of legs the ant has and how they each move slightly differently, but achieving the end product is surely worth it. 

Are you a poor artist? Fear not! The Sk3tchbot can draw for you! All you have to do is simply plan out how to build it, program the code that will run it, construct the pieces together, debug the code because there was a mistake, figure out how to attach the writing utensil to the bot, and finally...get a perfect square.

Python has recently become one of the most popular beginner (and expert) coding languages known for its versatility and user-friendliness. Although you will have already gained some experience in coding through LEGO Mindstorms, Python will offer a much more practical approach to programming. 

OnShape is a design software that you can access and edit digitally. In this unit, you can learn how to design and engineer machines. By utilizing what you have learned about robotics throughout the year, you can create fidget spinners, buildings, and even your own robots.

Snatch3r is a robot that literally will be able to grab small objects. Using what you have learned through LEGO Mindstorms, you will work through the whole design process and learn how to troubleshoot effectively throughout the process. 

The Final Project will be assigned by Mr. Abram. It will incorporate everything you have learned throughout the semester and you can expect the cardboard engineering project for the first semester and a choice between a 3-D Design project, an urban gardening project, or a project you can design and create by yourself in the second semester.