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Learning VEX Robotics
Learning VEX Robotics
In the Creative Labs, we have a VEX Robotics EXp Classroom Set. This page will give you guidance and resources on how to get started with robotics. By the end of this learning, you will be able to access the VEX robotics collection to create and build your projects! VEX Robotics is a big competition that happens at a national and international level and if you are keen you can be part of the VEX Robotics team and compete internationally.
Software
VEX Code EXP is the software you will need on your Macbook to program and connect to your robot. Your first learning task below explains how to download it and install it.
Your First Learning Task
Download and install VEX Code EXP from the Self-Service app or this link. On the self-service app, search for VEX to find it and install it. Once installed open it and explore it. Watch the video playlists below to help you learn more.
What is Robotics?
A robot is a type of automated machine that can execute specific tasks with little or no human intervention and with speed and precision. The field of robotics, which deals with robot design, engineering, and operation, has advanced remarkably in the last 50 years.
What can robots do?
Essentially, there are as many different types of robots as there are tasks for them to perform. Robots can perform some tasks better than humans, but others are best left to people and not machines.
The following are things robots do better than humans:
Automate manual or repetitive activities in corporate or industrial settings.
Work in unpredictable or hazardous environments to spot hazards like gas leaks.
Process and deliver reports for enterprise security.
Fill out pharmaceutical prescriptions and prep IVs.
Deliver online orders, room service and even food packets during emergencies.
Assist during surgeries.
Robots can also make music, monitor shorelines for dangerous predators, help with search and rescue and even assist with food preparation.
Robotics utilizes a broad range of disciplines within computer science and beyond, from mathematics to mechanics to biology. Especially important tools from computer science include artificial intelligence, physics simulation, and sophisticated sensor processing (e.g. computer vision).
Robotics is a fascinating field that usually encompasses both hardware and software.
Robots are usually made up of Input Devices and Output Devices and some processing software in between. Below are some examples of hardware components.
INPUT DEVICES
Light Sensor, Manual Controller, Sound Sensor, Proximity Sensor, Infrared Sensor
OUTPUT DEVICES
Motors / Servos, Actuators, Speakers, Lights Speakers
Your Second Learning Task - Your First Project
Let’s build your first robot! Use this link above to follow the instructions to build the clawbot. In the robotics cupboard, there is also a folder with step-by-step instructions. Below are project steps to help you.
Project Steps
1) Open up the link to see the instructions.
2) Familiarise yourself with the robotics cupboard. A key thing to remember is that the robotics cupboard is organized and categorized and must stay that way. SO any part you use or don't use make sure it goes back into the correct place. Slow down how you work to make sure you are focusing on accuracy.
3) Use the two videos below to help you with your build.
Step 1 - Build the Basebot
Step 1 - Build the Basebot
Step 2 - Build the Clawbot add-on
Step 2 - Build the Clawbot add-on
Your Third Learning Task - Programming your Robot
Now you have a robot you have to give it some instructions. Instructions for hardware is called software. Software is created by coding. Connect your robot to your Macbook via a cable from the cabinet to establish a connected robot ready to be coded.
Project Steps
Your robot won’t do anything until we give it some instructions. Instructions in Computer Science is known as software. Let’s connect our robot to our computers to start to code software to control the hardware.
Go to: https://codeexp.vex.com/
Connect your Robot to your Computer - See instructions here
Browse the Tutorials Section on codeexp.vex.com to learn more about how to code your robot. Start with the basics and work your way up.
So you have mastered the basics?
Let’s try the following coding challenges
Your Fourth Learning Task - Your Third Project
Taking it Further - Now you have mastered the basics of the VEX EXP System. Here are some more activities.
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