Intermediate Robotics Session E

Service Description

Intermediate Robotics 6-week course for upper elementary students (Prerequisite: Beginning Robotics A & B) Weekly Schedule & Projects Weeks 1–2: Autonomous Navigation (Line Follower) Students start by modifying a base platform to build a Line Follower robot equipped with downward-facing optical sensors. Key Learning Outcomes: Sensor Integration: Program downward-facing color/light sensors to detect surface markings and distinguish ground contrast. Conditional Logic: Implement basic threshold loops and conditional statements (if/then) to make real-time directional corrections. Autonomous Feedback: Understand how feedback loops allow a robot to adjust its path smoothly along straight lines and tight curves without human intervention. Weeks 3–4: Advanced Steering Mechanics (Stand-Up Scooter) Students construct a two-wheeled Stand-up Scooter featuring active motor-driven front-wheel steering and rear drive motors for balance. Key Learning Outcomes: Vehicle Dynamics: Explore front-wheel steering geometry, turning radiuses, and dual-rear-wheel balance dynamics. Multi-Motor Control: Synchronize independent steering and drive motors to achieve precise motion control. Weeks 5–6: Custom Hardware & Remote Optimization (Object Delivery Challenge) Students return to a foundational robot frame to engineer custom physical attachments and design a tailored digital remote control for a high-speed object transport competition. Key Learning Outcomes: Structural Engineering: Prototype and iterate custom mechanical add-ons (grippers, plows, or scoops) engineered specifically to hold and transport objects efficiently. Interface & Control Mapping: Program custom digital remotes, analyzing performance differences between binary inputs (buttons), directional controls (D-pads), and proportional controls (sliders). System Optimization: Fine-tune input sensitivity—calculating precise distance and turn angles per button press or slider increment to minimize driver error and maximize speed under competitive conditions.