TA2+Robotics+Unit

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This portion of the course will build on the programming experience you gained in Tech Apps I. You will work in teams of two. There are 2 types of robots we could be using this year: the BoeBot and the LEGO NXT. See the section below that is applicable to the robot we're using in class this year.

LEGO NXT
LEGO makes the NXT robot kit. The picture below is a very elaborate combination of pieces, motors, and sensors, and we are most likely not going to build this particular robot. (Rumor has it this particular robot is not very exciting, and the pic is for marketing purposes.) But we will make numerous simpler robots that can still do cool stuff. The NXT has a graphical programming environment, and there is a vast online community for help, ideas, examples, and more. You will be graded on how well you make your robot do the required tasks. Brian will put a list of requirements and tasks on [|Moodle]. Have fun and pay attention - we're interested in getting a middle school robotics program started, and we will want your feedback.



BoeBot
In building your BoeBot robot you will need to marry hardware (mechanical and electronics) construction skills to your software skills. Your grade will be based on how well your robot performs the required motions and how far along in the curriculum you get in the budgeted time. Brian will hand-out (on [|Moodle]) a task list detailing the different stages of construction and programming tasks. Here's your baby. Can you teach it to walk?