ROBOTICS MB

Boy Scout Robotics Merit Badge Camp

Before the Camp

All Robotics Merit Badge requirements will NOT be covered during the camp. 

Boy Scouts should complete their Robotics Merit Badge workbook prior to attending camp, except for items 4 and 5.  Our Merit Badge Counselors will NOT sign scout’s blue cards if the workbook is not complete.  We will NOT have time during the camp for scouts to work on items other than items 4 and 5. 

Boy Scouts are to complete a robot engineering notebook.  Boy Scouts will NOT be provided a notebook at the Robotics Camp; they should bring a notebook or binder with them. 

Boy Scouts will work in groups of 5 and use an Ollo Bug kit to build their robot during Robotics Camp, or will bring their own robot kit.  Boy Scouts will NOT be allowed to keep the robot they construct using our kit. If you would like your Boy Scouts to keep the robot they construct, please contact us and we can discuss kits that are available for purchase.

Research Resources

(The following requirement steps are also covered with the attached Powerpoint Presentation)

1a.  Safety:  What are the most likely hazards you may encounter while working with robots and what should you do to anticipate, mitigate and prevent, and respond to these hazards?  Describe the appropriate safety gear and clothing that should be used when working with robotics.

Vex Curriculum Safety Considerations: http://www.education.rec.ri.cmu.edu/roboticscurriculum/vex_online/safety/safety.html

1b.  Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in robotics activities and competitions, including eye injuries and burns (chemical or heat).

http://www.bsatroop680.org/First_Aid/default.htm

2a.  What kinds of things can robots do and how are they best used today?

Types of Robots:http://prime.jsc.nasa.gov/ROV/types.html

2b.  What are the similarities and differences between remote-controlled vehicles, telerobots, and autonomous robots?

Remote-Controlled, Telerobots, and Autonomous Robots:http://troop503.info/robotics/?p=275

2c.  What are three different methods robots can use to move themselves other than wheels or tracks?  Describe when it would be appropriate to use each method.

Robot Systems (click on Mobility):http://prime.jsc.nasa.gov/ROV/systems.html#mobility

3.  Discuss three of the five major fields of robotics (human-robot interface, mobility, manipulation, programming, sensors) and their importance to robotics development.  Discuss either of the three fields as they relate to a  single robot system.

Robot Systems:http://prime.jsc.nasa.gov/ROV/systems.html     human-robot interface (click on Controller)     mobility (click on Mobility)     manipulation (click on Tools)     sensors (click on Sensors)

4.  Design, built, and test a robot.  (Done at Robotics Merit Badge Camp.)

5.  Demonstrate your robot to your counselor.  (Done at Robotics Merit Badge Camp.)

6.  Attend or learn about robotics competitions.

FIRST Robotics Competition:http://www.usfirst.org/

7.  Name three career opportunities in robotics.  Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession.

NASA Robotics Career Corner:http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/robotics/careercorner/index.html

For fun

NASA ROVER (Robotic Online Virtual Exploration Rover)http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/robotics/home/ROVER.html

VEX Robotics Resource Pagehttp://www.vexrobotics.com/bsa/

ROBOT KITS AVAILABLE FROM THE BSA

The robotics kits featured here offer all the programming and assembling skills needed to meet the related requirements for this merit badge. Each kit is a great way for individuals or groups to research, design, build and test actual robots they create. No previous robotics, electronics, or programming experience is necessary.

Ollo Bug Robot Kit: This reconfigurable robot construction kit is the perfect choice for beginners of all ages! Using an easy-to-build plates-and-rivets system, you can create four different types of robotic bugs that can trace lines, detect objects, or be controlled via wireless remote. Comes with detailed, illustrated instructions. (Scoutstuff.org, #612752, $99)

 ROBOTICS MERIT BADGE FOR ENCAMPMENT 2015

Check-in starts 1/2 hour prior to the start time of your class. You should bring a blue card filled out properly for this class. If you are not familiar with how to fill out a blue card, you should familiarize yourself with Scoutmaster Bucky's "How To Fill Out A Blue Card" document. Click here for Scoutmaster Bucky's "How To Fill Out A Blue Card".  Remember it is a Scout's responsibility to take care of their own blue card from beginning to end.

Your Scout Uniform is required to be worn for attending this Merit Badge session.

Reviewing the merit badge pamphlet PRIOR to attending and doing preparation work will insure that Scouts get the most out of these class opportunities. The merit badge pamphlet is a wealth of information that can make earning a merit badge a lot easier. It contains many of the answers and solutions needed or can at least provide directions as to where one can find the answers. 

It should be noted that this merit badge class is not meant for those who just want to come and see what they can get done. It is possible to complete this merit badge by being properly prepared and having done the preparation work prior to the class. Preparation is a MUST.

Things to remember to bring for this Merit Badge Class:

1. Merit Badge Blue Card properly filled out and signed off by your Scoutmaster2.Your Registration Receipt3. Scout Uniform4. Your Robot Engineering Notebook5. Any additional supporting documentation or project work pertinent to this meritbadge6. Robotic Kit that you may have for use in the class 7.  A positive Scouting focus and attitude