Spinner Bot

Objective

Build a robot that spins at high speeds and uses "bumpers" to avoid crashing into objects.

Description

This robot goes fast and turns even faster, executing super fast spin turns in place! Although the robot has six wheels, it is essentially perfectly balanced over the two drive wheels in the center of each side. The four castor wheels at the corners barely touch the ground, except when needed to keep the robot from tipping over during rapid changes in speed or direction. This balanced makes the robot turn very easily.

Procedures

Day 1: Build Spinner Bot

            Select Basic Build Instructions from References/Resources above

Day 2: Write and test program for Spinner Bot

            Select Spinner Bot Program from References/Resources above

For advanced programmers, encourage students to write their own program based on the basic build and the objective of the activity.

Day 3: Get dizzy with your Spinner Bots!

Discussion

1. What key construction elements are needed for the Spinner Bot to work? What would happen if you eliminated one or more of these key elements?
2. Can the Spinner Bot travel in a straight line? Why or why not?
3. After the Spinner Bot hits an obstacle, what happens and why?

Continuation

Using the Spinner Bot as a guide, invite students to write a program that would detect obstacles and thus allow the Spinner Bot to roam around freely without the need of its bumper system. Limit students to add only one sensor to their robot for this challenge.