Dr. Wexler's Courses

Seating Chart
Classroom Rules

Syllabus

Unit 1: Introduction to Robotics
Unit 2: Mechanics
Unit 3: Automation and Robotics
Unit 4: Programming: Lego Mindstorms NXT-G
Unit 5: Individual Lego Mindstorms Projects
Unit 6: Electrical Storage and Distribution
Unit 7: Introduction to Electronics
Unit 8: Introduction to 3-D Design: Autodesk Inventor

Session Content
Unit 1: Introduction to Robotics
1. Review Syllabus
2. Review Safety Rules and Contract
3. Safety contracts must be signed by parent/guardian and returned to instructor
4. Discuss: What is robotics?
5. Internet research: Introduction to Robotics Worksheet 1
6. Internet projects: Individual powerpoint reports on robotics applications. Possible topics (one per person).
7. Perspectives on the 2009 First Robotics Competition and the 2009 FRC Team 2547 (Redcat Robos) Robot "Made to Last"
8. Unit Exam

Unit 2: Mechanics
1. Newton's Laws of Motion; Car Physics: Understanding Newton's Laws of Motion
First Law: Law of Inertia: An object at rest will tend to stay at rest and an object in motion will tend to stay in uniform motion unless acted upon by an external unbalanced force.
Second Law: Force = Mass x Acceleration.
Activities: Seesaw Catapult: effect of changing mass, acceleration on distance
Third Law: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Activities: balloon, origami, skateboard, and solid fuel rockets

2. Simple Machines
     A. Inventor's Toolbox: The Elements of Machines
     B. Six simple machines      
     C. Constructor: Soda Straw Robot Simulator
         
     D. Trebuchet Construction

         
        Trebuchet calculator

        Trebuchet construction tips

        How to make a trebuchet pouch

        Physics of the Trebuchet

        Projectile Motion Applet

     E. Hot Wheels Lab

         

3. The Mechanical Advantage of Machines
4. Simple Machines Quiz 1
5. Simple Machines Quiz 2
6. Mechanical Robot Theory: Drive Train

5. Robot Design and Construction
Chassis/Drive Train: John, Tim, Alex, Chester
Sweeper/Riser: Josh, Billy, Peter, Edwardo
Shooter: Shakerah, Dominique, Orlando, Dearlo
Hopper: Shontrese, Laparis, Antwan, Savone
Base Turret: Antonio, Alicia, Brooke
Manipulator Arm: Jordan, Denzel, Matthew, Darren
Gripper: Francisco, Peter, Dr. Wexler