RoboChamps: Mastery Drivetrains with VEX IQ

Designed for students with a basic understanding of robotics, our Mastery Drivetrains course is a 10-week intensive program focused on sharpening the skills necessary for competitive robotics. This course delves into the fundamental concepts of mechanical engineering, providing in-depth knowledge of different drivetrain systems, their applications, and the pros and cons of each. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the ability to design, choose, and build the appropriate drivetrain for specific robotics challenges, setting them up for success in competitive environments.

Objectives:

The primary objective of the Foundations of Drivetrains course is to enhance students' existing robotics knowledge by providing a thorough understanding of drivetrain systems. Through a combination of hands-on building, theoretical learning, and project-based activities, students will develop the skills needed to excel in competitive robotics, with a focus on drivetrain design and optimization.

Learning Outcome:

By the end of this 10-week course, students will:

• Deepen Their Understanding of Mechanical Engineering Concepts: Build upon their introductory knowledge with advanced mechanical concepts such as force, torque, friction, and gear ratios, specifically as they relate to robotic drivetrains.

• Master Different Drivetrain Systems: Gain expertise in various drivetrain types, including tank, differential, Ackermann, mecanum, and holonomic drives, and understand the best use cases for each.

• Build and Optimize Drivetrains: Develop practical skills in building and optimizing different drivetrain systems, focusing on efficiency, maneuverability, and power.

• Design and Selection Expertise: Learn how to choose and design the most effective drivetrain for specific robotics challenges or games, preparing them for competitive scenarios.

• Problem-Solving and Application: Apply their knowledge in a final project that involves designing and building a drivetrain solution to a specific problem, followed by a competition to test their design.

• Engineering Notebook and Assessment: Enhance their ability to document the engineering process, with weekly vocabulary lessons, worksheets, quizzes, and practical assessments.

• Showcase and Competition: Present their final projects in a showcase for parents, including a competition to demonstrate their designs in action.