Instruction Guide: Introduction to NXT
Slide 1 Use the Powerpoint file Introduction to NXT.ppt to transistion from a discussion of robots in general to the specifics of the NXT.
Slide 2 Different Types of Robots:
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Asks studetns to come up with examples of real robots.
- Discuss what type (Military, Domestic, Industrial, Entertainment, Exploratory, Medical) each example represents
- Discuss how each example addresses the 4D's: Dangerous work, Dull (repetitive) work, Delicate (precision) work, Dirty work (hostile environments, beyond human capability), etc.
- The first slide has some sample robot images
Slide 3 NXT: Our Robotics Technology of Choice
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Ask how many students have worked with Lego
- Lego is the "manufacturer" of the NXT (first robot characteristic)
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Explain we will explore hardware vs firmware vs software in future lessons
- Hardware – what you can see/ touch
- Software – instructions programmer (student) gives robot
- Firmware – instructions manufacturer gives robot
- We’ll be focusing on the hardware for the next few lessons
Slide 4 Hardware includes tradition Lego building pieces plus NXT parts Slide 5
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NXT sensors (light, touch, sound, ultrasonic)
- Have students compare these to human senses
- These are how NXT robots “sense their environment” (second robot characteristic)
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NXT motors
- Have students compare these to human capabilities (muscles)
- These are one way NXT robots “respond to instructions” (third robot characteristic)
Slide 6
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NXT “brick”
- Have students compare these to human capabilities (brain)
- Controls motors, lights and LCD screen based on instructions and sensory input
Slide 7 NXT – Although made by Lego, the NXT not just a simple toy
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Show video examples of Rubik’s Cube Solver, Sudoku Solver and Portrait drawing NXT
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Exact same hardware as students will use in class
- Point out brick, motors and sensors in videos
- More complex software than students will start with, but all within reach in advanced classes
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Exact same hardware as students will use in class