Lesson 1: Self Design Research
Duration of Days: 4
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to evaluate various mechanical subsystem designs (Drivetrains, Manipulators, Arms, and Chasses) to determine the most efficient configuration for the "Swept Away" challenge.
How do different drivetrain configurations affect speed versus torque?
Which manipulator design is most effective for high-volume collection of game elements?
How does the center of gravity in a chassis design impact robot stability during arm extension?
Drivetrain: The system of components that provides mobility (e.g., Tank drive, H-drive, Mecanum).
Degree of Freedom (DoF): The number of independent ways a mechanical system can move.
Manipulator / Intake: The mechanism designed to interact with and move game objects.
Center of Mass: The point at which the weight of the robot is evenly dispersed.
Torque vs. Speed: The trade-off in gear ratios required for different tasks.
ITEE STEL-2P: Demonstrate the use of conceptual, graphical, and physical models to identify conflicting design constraints.
NGSS HS-ETS1-3: Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs.
Description: This lesson is a "Design Jam" research session. Students will use online resources (VEX Forum, YouTube, and technical manuals) to find at least three different versions of each subsystem. They will document the pros and cons of each in their engineering notebooks.
Purpose: To prevent "tunnel vision" by ensuring students see multiple ways to solve a problem before they start cutting metal or tightening bolts.
DOK Level: Level 3 (Strategic Thinking). Students are not just identifying parts; they are analyzing which parts work best for a specific set of constraints.
In this course, we recognize that students enter the lab with varying levels of technical experience. Our differentiation strategy employs a 'Scaffolded Autonomy' approach. We provide structured, step-by-step guidance for foundational concepts while offering open-ended, 'Design Challenge' extensions for advanced learners. By utilizing peer-mentorship models, diverse instructional media (visual, tactile, and digital), and flexible project pathways, we ensure every student can move from consumer to creator at their own pace.
Formative: A "Subsystem Matrix" where students must list one advantage and one disadvantage for three different types of manipulators (e.g., Claw vs. Roller vs. Scoop).