Designing a simple robot is a hands-on way to learn how engineering, coding, and science work together. A robot is a machine that senses information, follows instructions, and uses parts like motors to act on the world. In a basic wheeled robot, every design choice helps it complete a task, such as driving forward, avoiding walls, or carrying a small object.
The best robot designs start with a clear goal before any parts are attached.
Key Facts
- Robot design often follows a cycle: define, build, code, test, improve.
- A simple wheeled robot needs a frame, wheels, motors, a power source, a controller, and often sensors.
- Speed = distance ÷ time.
- Distance = speed × time.
- Voltage from the battery must match the needs of the controller and motors.
- Iteration means using test results to improve the robot step by step.
Vocabulary
- Robot
- A robot is a machine that can be programmed to sense, decide, and act.
- Chassis
- A chassis is the frame or body that holds the robot parts together.
- Controller
- A controller is the robot's small computer that runs the code and sends signals to parts.
- Sensor
- A sensor is a device that detects information such as light, distance, touch, or sound.
- Iteration
- Iteration is the process of testing a design, finding problems, and improving it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting with parts before choosing the task is wrong because the robot may not be built for the job it needs to do.
- Forgetting to secure wires is wrong because loose wires can unplug, touch moving wheels, or cause the robot to stop during a test.
- Using motors without checking the battery and controller limits is wrong because too much or too little power can damage parts or make the robot weak.
- Testing only once is wrong because one run may not show all problems, and good engineering needs repeated testing and improvement.
Practice Questions
- 1 A robot travels 120 cm in 6 seconds. What is its average speed in cm/s?
- 2 A robot moves at 15 cm/s for 8 seconds. How far does it travel?
- 3 A student's robot turns left when it should drive straight. Explain two possible causes and one test the student could do to find the problem.