The Richmond Hill Montessori School (RHMS) Robotics Club has just wrapped up an exhilarating term, leaving students and instructors excited about what September will bring. The club’s mission this term was ambitious but clear: design a claw robot capable of grasping cubes to compete in a simulated VEX IQ team challenge. With a structured approach spread across three phases, the students met their goals and flourished in a collaborative and educational environment.
Phase 1: Designing the Drive System
The first phase of the project focused on the drive system. Students had the autonomy to choose between constructing a gear-driven system or a chain-driven one. They also had to decide whether to use rubber wheels or omnidirectional wheels. Additionally, the choice of wheelbase was crucial. A shorter wheelbase would offer higher maneuverability, while a longer wheelbase would provide better stability. These decisions were not just theoretical; they allowed students to understand the practical advantages and disadvantages of different drive systems and wheel designs through hands-on experience.
Phase 2: Crafting the Claw
Next came the design of the claw. Here, students had to decide between using short torque arms or long torque arms. They also learned how to apply the principles of a parallelogram in mechanical design. This phase was particularly educational as it enhanced the students’ mechanical design skills and allowed them to see firsthand how different designs perform in real-world scenarios. By experimenting with various designs, they gained a deeper understanding of the mechanics behind robotic movements and the importance of precision in engineering.
Phase 3: Programming the Robot
The final phase was the programming stage. Students were introduced to hardware programming and learned how to create and use flowcharts. This phase was crucial for helping them grasp the importance of programming in robot control, as well as enhancing their logical thinking skills. They learned to write code that would control their robots, making them fully functional for the tasks ahead. This stage not only solidified their understanding of robotics but also prepared them for future challenges that require both technical and analytical skills.
The Cube Grabbing Challenge
After completing the design and construction of their robots, the students faced the ultimate test: the cube-grabbing challenge. In a one-minute competition, two teams had to collaborate to grab as many cubes as possible and transfer them to a designated unloading zone. The teams took turns competing, which not only tested their design and programming capabilities but also fostered a spirit of teamwork and cooperation. This challenge was a highlight of the term, as it brought together all the skills they had learned and allowed them to see the fruits of their labor in action.
A Triumphant Conclusion
In the end, all teams successfully built their robots and completed the challenge. The students not only gained a wealth of knowledge but also had a tremendous amount of fun throughout the process. The sense of accomplishment was palpable, and the skills they developed will undoubtedly serve them well in future endeavors. The success of this term has set a high bar, and both students and instructors are eagerly looking forward to continuing the journey in September. The RHMS Robotics Club has proven to be an invaluable educational experience, blending learning with excitement and fostering a love for science and engineering.
As we look ahead to the next term, the enthusiasm is already building. With new challenges and opportunities on the horizon, the RHMS Robotics Club is poised to continue its tradition of excellence. We can’t wait to see what our talented students will achieve next!
Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for another thrilling term at Richmond Hill Montessori School’s Robotics Club!