Robot Arm

Build Your Own Robot Arm : 

Build Your Own Robot Arm Trinidad September 2008 Nico Beute

What will we do today? (1) : 

What will we do today? (1) We will build a robot arm from simple materials The arm would pick up a plastic cup from a distance of 45cm Lift the cup to a height of at least 15cm Bring the cup back to rest and release it

You cannot get too close… : 

You cannot get too close… Cup Student Robot Arm 45cm You cannot get any closer than 45cm to the cup at any time

What will we do today? (2) : 

What will we do today? (2) Lift and release the cup when it is upside down Lift and release the cup when it is full of candy Do not spill Use the same design (possibly with a modified end effector) to lift a pen

Why is this experiment useful to teachers and students? : 

Why is this experiment useful to teachers and students? It teaches technological design It requires mathematical calculations for design It relates to the studies of motion and force It requires communication in writing (design) and orally (explaining the design principles)

Principles & Standards for School Mathematics : 

Principles & Standards for School Mathematics Geometry: Use visualization, spatial reasoning, and geometric modeling to solve problems Analyze characteristics and properties of two- and three-dimensional geometric shapes and develop mathematical arguments about geometric relationships Problem Solving: Recognize and apply geometric ideas in areas outside of the mathematics classroom Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies Communication: Communicate mathematical thinking coherently and clearly to peers, teachers, and others

Outline and Procedures : 

Outline and Procedures Divide into teams of two (2) Review the requirements Discuss a solution and create a sketch of your design Build a model of your design with given materials Test your model

Redesign after testing : 

Redesign after testing Discuss and agree upon a redesign If needed after testing, or to enhance the previous design Rebuild your robot arm Retest your model Answer reflection questions as a team

Reflection Questions : 

Reflection Questions What was one thing you liked about your design? What is its main weakness? Are there algebraic and physical principles that can be applied to this activity? What is one thing you would change about your design based on your experience? How would you modify the instructions to create a better experience for the participants?

Design requirements : 

Design requirements The arm would pick up a plastic cup from a distance of 45cm Lift the cup to a height of at least 15cm Bring the cup back to rest and release it Lift and release the cup when it is upside down Lift and release the cup when it is full of candy Use the same design (possibly with a modified end effector) to lift a pen