Robotics
Final Project 2002: 400 Points
Updated 1/06/03
Purpose:
To gain a better understanding of Robotics and their uses as well as how they are related to all of the Sciences, especially Physical Science. And to gain a better understanding of how such projects are funded and built within the United States.
Goals:
1) Students will be able to build a prototype robot that is functional on either the Moon or Mars.
2). Students will be able to produce a blueprint design that they can use to build their project.
3). Students will gain a better understanding of simple machines and how they are used around us every day.
4). Students will gain a better understanding of how Physical Science affects all facets of society in my different ways.
The Project:
Students can work by themselves or in groups numbering no bigger than six. They are to build one robot that is no larger than 2 feet by 2 feet, and no smaller than the size of an erector set. This robot must match what was proposed in their Program Proposal and their blueprints. The project may be made out of virtually anything, but it seems that old toy parts, erector sets, Leggo sets, Kinnex sets, etc. seem to be the best frame for such a project. Projects may NOT be store bought robots!!!! Yes robots can use parts of store bought robots but they must be an original creation. The robot must be designed to be functional on either Mars or the Moon since we are planning to colonize both bodies. Therefore, your robot must take the geological features in mind. An upright walking robot is not useful because it is more likely to fall over and not be an asset to the exploration of the Moon and Mars. The robot you build must be semi-moveable, meaning that the wheels must be movable and any camera arms, or radar, or geological equipment must be able to move. In addition, All robots must have the following on the outside: a body (usually covered in gold, silver, and/or white), United States Flag, as well as the company that built the Robot and any sponsors of this research robot. note: a C3PO or R2D2 are not good designs for robots.
Simple Machines:
All robots must have at least 3 examples of simple machines. Examples of simple machines are wheels, levers, inclined planes, screws, pulleys, wedges, etc. These three examples must be visible and must be movable.
Science Connection:
All Robots must have at least 4 capabilities, meaning that each robot must be able to do at least 3-4 experiments on the surface of either the Moon or Mars. In addition, These experiments must reflect the chapters and units taught in 7th and 8th grade Earth Science and Physical Science class. This can be explained in the Written portion of the project.
Project Breakdown
1. Proposal: (20 points) Due 2/7/03
The proposal should contain the following:
a. Name of the robot
b. Who is building the robot (which company, or university)
c. Cost of robot (assuming it was built in real life, not prototype)
d. Purposes of robot including what experiments it will accomplish on the surface
e. What rocket will take up the robot (consideration must be taken as to cost of each rocket launch, and picking rockets that are in the United States present arsenal.).
2. Blueprints: (100 points)Due 4/23/03
The blueprints must contain the following:
a. front view
b. back view
c. top view
d. side view
e. bottom view if necessary.
f. proper dimensions of the robot from all views.
Note: blue prints can be as small as 8.5x11 or as big as normal blueprints.All blueprints must be measured in metric units, and all aspects of your robot must be measured on each view. All blueprints will be stamped by me, and if the final robot does not match the robot, then points will be deducted.
3. Robot: (200 points) Due 4/22/03
Needs to be complete and ready for display. A short 3-10 minute oral to explain your robot will be expected. Robot may need to demonstrate that it can go over terrain.
4. Written Portion: (100 points) 4/23/03
Groups will be required to turn in a short 2-5 page paper containing the following:
a. attach the original proposal turned in Feb.
b. blueprints
c. Explain what you learned from your project.
d. Explain how your project integrates topics learned in your Earth Science book.
e. Explain why robots are important in our everyday life, especially in space exploration. Please give examples of robots being used now.
f. Must have at least a minimum of three sources (either internet, book, journal, or magazine) Must have an introduction, and conclusion, as well as a bibliography, and must be written in standard written English.All essays must have one inch margins and be double spaced, using 10-12 font only.
g. Must have at least 2 pictures or diagrams in your paper.
h. Consent form signed by you and your family stating that you actually did the project and not other family members.
Grade breakdown
200 pts.- construction of robot.
100 pts.- blueprints
100 pts.- paper
note: proposal will be a separate grade counting for 3rd quarter.
Copyright © 1997-01, LASA Aerospace, Revised January 05, 2003