ABOUT ROBOTICS AND ENERGY
In gateway to technology Robotics and Energy, we will be focusing on Automation and Robotics and The Science of Technology with a focus on energy transfer.
In the Automation and Robotics unit, students learn about the historical development of the robot, future developments in robotics, and the differences between inexpensive open-loop control robots and the expensive closed-loop control robots. Students will solve a series of problems that will provide design, fabrication, programming, and troubleshooting opportunities using Lego Mindstorm robots.
The students are responsible for building and programming the robots to complete a series of tasks using sensors such as light, sound, touch, and ultrasonic. They will also be controlling the robot to move with a series of motors. Using this combination they will create a program, like the video to the right, to complete the task such as following a line.
In the Science of Technology unit we will be focusing on the transfer of energy using simple machines. The students will complete a Rube Goldberg project using materials found at home. They will create a chain reaction to move the energy from one side of a 12" by 12" board and start the energy tranfer for the board of the next group.
These items are required for every day of class. Be sure to have them with you and ready to use when class begins.
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Plastic folder with 3 rings and pockets
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Lined paper to be stored in the folder
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2 pencils for sketching (standard #2 pencils)
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1 eraser
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1 Pen (black or blue ink)
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Pencil case to store pencils, eraser, and pen in the binder. *(Optional)*
We will also be using other supplies for the class (such as graph paper) that will be provided to you. This will all be stored in your binder
Required Materials
Honda's Cog Video
Cog was a advertisement for British television and cinema that was launched in 2003 for the Honda Accord. The contraption pictured was built from the parts of the car being advertised. Contrary to popular myth, the video was planned and taken in two minute long shots that were then stitched together in post-production. Cog took 606 takes to complete.
One interesting fact about Cog is that the car at the end of the video was one of only 5 Accords ever assembled by hand. It had to be taken apart during the making of the video for extra parts, and then was reassembled to complete the final sequence.
DID U KNOW?
