Intro to Robotics Design & AR Coding

Length: 1 week

Accreditation: Fully WASC Accredited (The Gold Standard in K-12 Education)

Prerequisite: None

DESCRIPTION

Imagine a world where your code commands a Robot to explore dangerous frontiers while you stay safely at the controls. In this captivating adventure, Teen Engineers will bring a robot to life and bridge the gap between two worlds.

No experience needed—everyone learns at their own pace, with extra challenges for students who are ready for more.

You won't just build a machine; you will become an interdimensional explorer. Imagine launching your Robot into a remote, hazardous environment—like a toxic alien planet or a deep-sea trench. Using Holographic Augmented Reality (AR), you will "teleport" yourself into the robot’s world. You will see what the robot sees and partner with it to solve problems, controlling it safely from your desk while it navigates the dangers of the unknown.

You will engineer a high-tech machine equipped with futuristic Mecanum wheels that can drift sideways and maneuver in ways standard cars can't. Then, you will step into the role of a commander, using Python coding to give your robot instructions, blending hands-on mechanics with the magic of digital teleportation.

Along the way, campers build creativity, critical thinking, and persistence as they debug and improve the robotics systems.

The Magic of Engineering + AR:

• Bring Your Robot to Life: Take a machine and give it motion. You will see your creation drift, spin, and interact with the world based on your program.
• Teleport into the Action: Use Holographic AR to teleport yourself into the digital world your robot is exploring. Partner with your robot to clear obstacles in a virtual galaxy while staying safe in the classroom.
• Real Code, Real Power: You will use Python, the text-based language of real-world engineers, to write the logic that controls your robot's every move.

The Robot & Hardware: The following hardware will be provided for each student in camp:

• Robot: A Mecha Armed smart robot powered by Raspberry Pi PicoW (Industry standard) technology, featuring programmable sensors, Mecha Arms, and Mecanum Wheels with Omni Directional Tires, to explore sophisticated sensor technologies and advanced control systems.
• Note: The smart robot hardware is provided for camp use, not to take home.

What You Will Do:

• Engineer the Rover: Assemble and test the smart robot, ensuring the mechanical arm and wheels function correctly.
• Code in Python: Learn Python syntax to control motors, speed, and direction.
• Enter the Robot World: Design an AR environment where you can virtually join your robot to control it remotely.
• Play & Create: Enjoy a dynamic mix of hands-on learning and fun indoor/outdoor camp activities.

Students will learn the following:

• Introductory Robotics Engineering (Teen Level)
• Introductory Robotics Coding (Teen Level)
• Introductory visual communication (Teen Level)
• Python Coding (Teen Level)
• Fundamentals of Circuits (Teen Level)
• Introductory Holographic AR design & logic (Teen Level)
• UI/UX (user interface/user experience) (Teen Level)
• Interactive storytelling (Teen Level)
• Debugging and Problem-solving (Teen Level)
• Intermediate Robotics Coding and Design (Teen Level)
• Design Thinking process based on Stanford University Design School curriculum (Teen Level)

⚠️ Essential Safety & Readiness Guide (Please Read) To ensure a successful experience, please ensure your teen is ready for the following:

• Respect the Tech: We use advanced components. Students must handle equipment with care.
• Focus & Logic: Engineering requires patience. Students should be ready to troubleshoot and solve puzzles.
• Instruction: Following step-by-step engineering protocols is vital for safety and success.