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The camps will cover topics such as behavior-based robotics through the
development
of a 2WD robot built from LEGO materials, commerical sensors, and
the Brainstem microcontroller.
Campers will be formally introduced to behavior-based robotics
by implementing subsumption architecture onto a 2WD robot. This
methodology is modeled after the reactive system of insects. It
is a reflexive system where "nerves" trigger actions.
A simple comparision is where a person touches a hot stove. Generally,
the individual moves their hand away from the hot surface, and then
reacts with the notion that something was just "burning you".
Campers will also be exposed and introduced to a wide range of
sensors common used in robotics. Sensors such as ultrasonics, proximity,
and flame detection will be implemented to create the robots "reactive"
system.
The robots built during these camps will ultimately
be tested on a
martian terrain. These robots will have the challenge of exploring
an unknown terrain in search of a thermal heat source, capable of
sustaining a human civilization.
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