Mechatrons
Robotics Classes and Workshops
Our Robotics 101 workshop is an 6 week course designed to teach the basics of robotics. This course will look at robots with and without sensors attached and the coding required for each. Different challenges are presented each week such as building a simple remote-control robot, coding and solving a maze. Each session builds on the previous so attendance is important.
The final class is a contest to get a robot solve a maze in the fastest time. By the end of this course, students will have an understanding of basic sensors, robotics concepts and Arduino code.
About Mechatrons
Here at Mechatrons, we are passionate about promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Ireland through the motivational effects of Robotics. STEM @Mechatrons is the educational face of the Irish Robotics and Special Effects company Mechatrons Technologies. We have been delivering lectures, classes and workshops on robotics and coding for over 20 years. Our Professor of Robotics, is the world renowned and award-winning Roboticist Peter Redmond. Peter sets our syllabus and delivers many of the lectures and workshops in person.
Why do Robotics with Mechatrons?
1. Children find it fun
Not many fields of knowledge incorporate creativity and fun simultaneously. Studies have shown that robotics achieves both. In fact, students love to partake in activities in which they have full control, something that is possible with robotics. And when learners are able to do cool stuff, they want to develop more features.
2. Effective way of introducing programming to students
Programming can be too abstract. By having to control a physical robot and seeing what goes wrong, students learn what robots can and can’t do. They also learn the need for precise instructions.
3. Provides skills useful in future employment
With advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, driverless cars, and spacecrafts taking shape every day, the present generation of students needs to be more prepared for technological changes than any before. By programming robots, students can discover if they have aptitude and interest in a job market of the future.
4. Teamwork
Robotics incorporates a range of skills, and thus promotes a learning environment for people with different talents. If properly harnessed, it also promotes a culture of teamwork.
Prerequisites
Basic skills in using a computer, like mouse control, double clicking, and drag and drop. Reading and writing in English. Understanding of basic mathematics such as angles.
Suitable for ages 12 to 17.
Unfortunately, the classroom is not currently wheelchair accessible.
Content
Gearing, Motors, Servo Motors, Differentials, Drive Mechanisms, Castors, Drive Trains, Beginning Arduino , controlling the robots, timing and controlling movement.
Schedule
The Course runs every Saturday for 6 Saturdays. Each class is 90 minutes long.
Locations:
P16/17 Grants Road,
Greenogue Business Park,
Rathcoole