Robotics 2: Grade 11 Advanced Curriculum

Prerequisite: Robotics 1 (or equivalent understanding of basic robotics principles, mechanics, sensors,
and programming)

Course Goal: To deepen students' understanding of robotics by exploring more advanced concepts in
mechanical design, programming, sensor integration, control systems, and autonomous behavior,
culminating in a complex, student-driven project.

Target Audience: Grade 11 Students

Suggested Platforms/Kits: Continue with platforms from Robotics 1 (LEGO Mindstorms, VEX, Arduino-
based kits), potentially introducing more advanced sensors, microcontrollers (e.g., Raspberry Pi for
vision/AI), or more complex mechanical components.

Module 1: Advanced Mechanical Design & Fabrication (5-7 Weeks)

 1.1 Review of Robotics 1 Mechanics: Gears, levers, basic chassis design.

 1.2 Advanced Drivetrains:

o Holonomic drives (e.g., mecanum wheels, omni-wheels) - design and control

o Suspension systems for varied terrain.

o Efficiency and power transmission optimization.

 1.3 Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Manipulators:

o Designing arms with 3+ degrees of freedom (DOF).

o Introduction to kinematic concepts (forward kinematics intuitively).

o Linkages and complex mechanisms (e.g., scissor lifts, parallel grippers).

 1.4 Introduction to CAD (Computer-Aided Design):

o Basics of a simple CAD tool (e.g., Tinkercad, Onshape for Education, Fusion 360 -
introductory level).

o Designing custom parts for robots.

 1.5 Introduction to Digital Fabrication (Optional, based on resources):

o 3D printing basics: from CAD model to physical part.

o Laser cutting basics for structural components.

 Project 1: The Advanced Manipulator Challenge

o Design and build a robot with a multi-DOF arm to perform a complex manipulation task
(e.g., stacking objects in a specific sequence, navigating an object through a tight space).
 o Option to design and fabricate a custom part if CAD/fabrication is covered.

Module 2: Intermediate Programming for Robotics (6-8 Weeks)

 2.1 Transitioning to/Deepening Text-Based Programming:

o If using block-based in Robotics 1, transition to Python or C++.

o If already using text-based, delve deeper into syntax and structure.

o Variables, data types (integers, floats, strings, booleans, arrays/lists).

o Control flow: advanced loops (for, while), nested conditionals.

 2.2 Functions and Modularity:

o Writing custom functions to organize code and promote reusability.

o Parameters and return values.

o Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable functions.

 2.3 Introduction to Data Structures:

o Arrays/Lists for storing collections of sensor data or waypoints.

o Simple data organization techniques.

 2.4 Basic Algorithms for Robotics:

o Search algorithms (e.g., simple sequential search).

o Sorting algorithms (e.g., bubble sort - conceptual).

o Applying algorithms to robot decision-making (e.g., finding the closest object).

 2.5 Debugging Techniques:

o Systematic approaches to finding and fixing errors in code.

o Using print statements or debugger tools effectively.

 Project 2: The Algorithmic Robot

o Program a robot to perform a task that requires more complex logic, data storage, and
custom functions.

o Examples: A robot that sorts objects by color, a robot that follows a complex path
defined by a list of waypoints, a robot that searches an area for multiple items.

Module 3: Advanced Sensing & Data Processing (6-8 Weeks)

 3.1 Sensor Review and Calibration:

o Importance of sensor accuracy and calibration techniques.

o Understanding the difference and how microcontrollers process them.

 3.3 Advanced Sensor Integration:

o Encoders for precise motor control and odometry (distance/position tracking).

o Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs): Accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers for

o Introduction to GPS (if applicable and resources allow).

 3.4 Introduction to Computer Vision (Conceptual & Basic Implementation):

o Using a camera as a sensor (e.g., PixyCam, webcam with Raspberry Pi).

o Basic concepts: color detection, blob detection, object tracking.

o Thresholding and simple image filtering.

 3.5 Basic Sensor Fusion:

o Concept of combining data from multiple sensors for a more robust understanding of
the environment (e.g., using ultrasonic and encoders for better obstacle avoidance and
localization).

 Project 3: The "Seeing" Robot

o Develop a robot that uses advanced sensors or basic computer vision to perform a task.

o Examples: A robot that navigates using IMU data, a robot that tracks and follows a
colored object using a camera, a robot that uses odometry to map a small area.

Module 4: Introduction to Control Systems & Autonomous Behavior (5-7 Weeks)

 4.1 Feedback Control Revisited:

o Deeper dive into PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control:

 Tuning PID controllers for optimal performance (e.g., for motor speed, line
following, arm positioning).

 Practical implementation and experimentation.

 4.2 State Machines for Complex Behaviors:

o Designing more sophisticated state machines to manage complex robot tasks and
transitions.

 4.3 Basic Path Planning and Navigation Algorithms:

o Introduction to concepts like A* (A-star) or Dijkstra's algorithm (conceptual, or simplified

 4.4 Introduction to Localization:

o "Where am I?" - Basic concepts of how robots determine their position in an

 4.5 Decision Making Under Uncertainty (Conceptual):

o How robots can make decisions when sensor data is noisy or incomplete.

 Project 4: The Autonomous Explorer

o Design and program a robot to autonomously navigate a more complex environment,

o Examples: A robot that explores a maze and finds the exit, a robot that maps an area by
identifying key features, a robot that performs a delivery task to a specified location
while avoiding dynamic obstacles.

Module 5: Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) & Ethics (2-3 Weeks)

 5.1 Principles of Human-Robot Interaction:

o How humans and robots can work together effectively and safely.

o Designing intuitive interfaces for controlling or interacting with robots.

o Robot expression and communication (e.g., lights, sounds, simple displays).

 5.2 Advanced Ethical Discussions:

o Autonomous weapons, AI bias in robotics, job displacement due to advanced

o The role of robotics in solving global challenges (e.g., climate change, healthcare).

 5.3 Designing for User Experience (UX) in Robotics:

o Considering the end-user when designing robotic systems.

 Activity/Mini-Project: Design an HRI Scenario

o Students design and prototype (e.g., through storyboards, simple simulations, or role-
playing) an interaction between a human and a robot for a specific task, focusing on
clarity, safety, and effectiveness.

Module 6: Capstone Project (6-8 Weeks)

 6.1 Project Definition and Proposal:

o Students work in teams to define a significant robotics problem they want to solve or a
complex task they want their robot to achieve.
 o Develop a project proposal outlining goals, design, required components, and timeline.

 6.2 Design, Build, Program, Test, Iterate:

o Students apply knowledge and skills from Robotics 1 and 2.

o Emphasis on the engineering design process: iterative development, testing, and

o Regular progress checks and mentorship.

 6.3 Documentation and Presentation:

o Documenting their design, code, challenges, and solutions.

o Preparing a final presentation and demonstration of their capstone project to peers,

 Possible Capstone Project Themes:

o Search and rescue robot for a simulated disaster zone.

o Automated greenhouse assistant.

o Interactive robotic game player.

o Art-creating robot.

o Warehouse automation task (e.g., sorting and delivering packages).

Assessment:

 Functionality, complexity, and innovation of projects.

 Quality of code, mechanical design, and system integration.

 Problem-solving skills and iterative design process.

 Individual contributions to team projects.

 Technical documentation and project proposals.

 Final capstone project demonstration and presentation.

 Quizzes or exams on advanced concepts.

Differentiation:

 Capstone projects can vary in complexity based on student skill levels.

 Provide access to more advanced tools/software for highly motivated students.

 Offer specialized workshops or tutorials on specific advanced topics (e.g., machine learning
basics with Raspberry Pi, advanced CAD).
This Robotics 2 curriculum aims to challenge students further, encouraging them to think critically, solve
complex problems, and innovate. The capstone project provides a significant opportunity for them to
synthesize their learning and create something truly impressive.