Introduction to Robotics Experience

In our robotics class this year, we did various activities that includes constructing robot and programming the NXT. Not only do we have to know how to place gears and beams together neatly, we also have to apply math and physics in order to maximize the function of the robot. This proves to be an intellectually engaging activity as we have to really apply what we have learned. One example of knowledge that I have learn during this class is the gear ratio, where changing it will vary the speed of the robot. I find it extremely interesting to learn as this knowledge is widely used in real life technology such as car industry and machinary.
Of course, this course also encourages us to collaborate with our partners during investigation. When we encountered any problem, we have to discuss as to what have went wrong. This is very educational because it helps us to learn the skill in collaboration. Overall, a class that really provides student with fundamental understanding of the robot and instill essential practical skill in the students.

Challenge: Drag Race

In this challenge, speed of the robot is an important factor of the race.
Therefore, we need to decrease the gear ratio in order to increase the speed. This means that it is necessary to connect bigger wheel to the driving wheel and the smaller wheel to the driven wheel. This way, the robot should be capable of running at an incredible speed.

Challenge: Tractor Pull

In this challenge, power of the robot is an important factor of the race. What we really need to is to increase the gear ratio in order to increase the power. This means that it is necessary to connect smaller wheel to the driving wheel and the bigger wheel to the driven wheel. This way, the robot should be capable of pulling heavier object.