Build Your Own Robot Bug Workshop
Class Overview
- Date: April 13, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- Location: Hidden Bee Farm, 753 Carters Creek Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
- Instructor: Zachary Seaton, Geospatial Analyst, Survey Technician, and Lieutenant in the Army National Guard
- Age Group: Suitable for ages 8 and up (flexible depending on skill level)
- Capacity: Limited to ensure hands-on experience for all participants
- Cost: $40 per participant
- What to Bring: Lunch and a curious mind
Class Itinerary
10:00 AM – Welcome and Introduction to Robotics (30 minutes)
- Introduction to the Day: Overview of activities, safety briefing.
- Meet the Instructor: Brief background of Zachary Seaton, his expertise, and his journey into robotics.
- What is Robotics?: A simple explanation of robotics and its significance in today’s world.
10:30 AM – Demonstrating a Real Robotic Arm (30 minutes)
- Live Demonstration: Showcase a robotic arm in action, explaining its components, functionality, and real-world applications.
- Q&A Session: Encourage questions to deepen understanding.
11:00 AM – Basics of Robotics and Engineering Principles (30 minutes)
- Interactive Presentation: Cover basic concepts like sensors, actuators, power sources, and simple circuits.
- Hands-On Mini-Activity: Simple circuit creation with LEDs and batteries to demonstrate electrical principles.
11:30 AM – Introduction to the Robot Bug Project (15 minutes)
- Project Overview: Explain the vibrating robot bug, its components, and how it works.
- Understanding the Materials: Go through the materials provided for the project, including the syringe switch battery pack.
11:45 AM – Lunch Break (30 minutes)
- Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches. This time can also be used for informal discussions on robotics.
12:15 PM – Constructing the Robot Bug (1 hour)
- Step-by-Step Guidance: Walk through the construction process of the robot bug, from assembly to wiring.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Participants can work in small groups or individually with guidance from the instructor and assistants.
1:15 PM – Testing and Customization (15 minutes)
- First Test: Participants test their robot bugs on a tiled surface, observing how the balance and construction affect movement.
- Customization: Encourage participants to customize their bugs, adjusting legs or adding decorations to personalize their creations.
Wrapping Up (1:30 PM)
- Show and Tell: Participants share their creations and experiences.
- Feedback and Q&A: Gather feedback, answer any remaining questions, and discuss how participants can continue exploring robotics.
- Certificates of Participation: Hand out certificates to acknowledge the participants’ hard work and learning.
Materials Provided
- Pre-cut materials for the robot bug body (e.g., plastic or cardboard)
- Vibrating motor
- Battery pack with a syringe switch (as per the Instructable guide)
- Wires and other electronic components
- Decorative materials for customization
Post-Class Support
- Provide a handout with resources for further learning in robotics, including websites, local clubs, and online courses.
- Share contact information for participants to reach out with questions or share their progress on future projects.
This plan combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experience, designed to spark interest in robotics and engineering among beginners of all ages. The project is chosen for its simplicity, educational value, and the immediate satisfaction of creating a working robot.
