A couple of members of the Quantum Code Club, our group young young folk aged 9-16, are currently building programmable robots from a kit. The kit is the slightly earlier :Move Mini from Kitronik, they’ve now moved on to the Mk 2 version. At its heart is a Micro:bit, but again we’re using an earlier version, rather than there later Mk2 with sound.
Once complete the two-wheeled robot will be suitable for autonomous operation, remote control projects via a Bluetooth application or being controlled using a second BBC microbit as a controller via radio.
Using the Servo Blocks in the MakeCode Editor, used to write programs for the Micro:bit, they will be able to control the speed of the robots using a method known as Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). A good understanding of PWM is essential for the members’ futures in electronics and coding if this is the path they choose to take their future studies and careers.
In addition to the obvious coding and electronics knowledge gained through this task, they will also be exposed to assembly skills; something lots of youngsters never experience these days.
In addition to movement, the robot also includes a number of NeoPixels, bright programmable LEDs, that can change brightness and intensity. From this aspect of the construction the members will gain an understanding of digital-to-analogue signal conversion – another highly prized skill.
The construction phase will also a few weeks and then we will move on to the coding and then testing methods. Once built, the young members of Quantum Code Club will be able;e to use the robots so that we can introduce the basic principles of robotics to them.
If you think your child might be interest in exploring and experimenting with technology, and they’re aged 9-16, please do read more about our Code Club and register your child.