CONNECT
What comes to mind when you hear this word robotic? And what exactly are robots?
Robotics is the discipline dedicated to exploring technology to create and develop autonomous machines, built to perform tasks based on instructions provided by humans, with the purpose of simplifying day-to-day activities. In educational robotics classes, we dedicate ourselves to research, discovery and construction of prototypes, which can range from animals to toys, tools or even replicas of real-world machines. Using the technological structural assembly kit made up of various colored parts, we have an investigative tool to explore the concepts linked to the construction of structures. To start structural robotics classes, it is essential to understand some basic technological principles, such as bases, beams and connectors.
The bases and beams, crucial parts for the beginning of the assembly of a project, play fundamental roles in supporting and organizing the other components. Both bases and beams are essential structural elements. In the structural robotics set, beams are referred to as rods, and in this kit, two distinct types are presented: rigid and flexible.
Connectors are elements used to join components and integrate parts of the project. They are pieces designed to fit tightly together using pressure, coming in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Furthermore, they act as auxiliary elements, performing functions such as finishing, spacing and connections between parts.
CONTEMPLATE
Let’s remember the pieces, observe and answer:
• What are connectors for?
• What types of rods are in the kit?
CONSTRUCT
Based on the texts and parts you learned, build a prototype using only rigid rods and connectors. Your construction can only have one auxiliary part and a maximum of 20 parts.
CONTINUE
After building the prototypes, share your experiences with your team and respond:
• What did you build? Did your construction comply with the rules? It was easy?
• What did you find most difficult to build?
Then, save all the materials used.