Check out our current and past project gallery here
Wondering how you will be graded in this course? Download the course rubric here.
Welcome!
Welcome to Robotic Technologies. Our shop is all about inquiry and project based learning with as many hands-on authentic experiences as possible. Our shop culture is based on respect and inclusive learning where everyone is welcome, regardless of previous knowledge.
Robotics Big Ideas
- Social, ethical, and sustainability considerations impact design.
- Complex tasks require the sequencing of skills.
- Complex tasks require different technologies and tools at different stages.
Design Challenge #1
Challenge
Design a race vehicle using Vex IQ kits for a 50 foot, straight race track
Designs should include:
- drawings of multiple ideas, where a final design is chosen to develop
- space available to experiment with different gearing ratio
Design Constraints
- No weight restriction
- Limited to 1 brain, 4 motors
- No intentional contact or obstruction of other vehicles during the race
Learning outcomes
- basic robot behaviours using input/output devices, movement- and sensor-based responses, and microcontrollers
- mechanical devices for the transfer of mechanical energy
- mechanical advantage and power efficiency, including friction, force, and torque
Design Challenge #2
Design Challenge
Build a vehicle that is powered by a single mousetrap. The goal is to create a vehicle that will travel as far as possible on a smooth flat surface (the gym floor).
Design Constraints
No additional sources of energy may be added other than a single mousetrap.
Build materials are limited to what is available in the shop, though additional materials you provide can be approved by the teacher.
This project must be completed by April 3rd and is worth 25% of your final grade.
Reflection and Assessment
Follow the link below to compete your build reflection:
Download the Design Brief and Assessment here:
Below are the files that will get you started with your sumo programming.
Design Challenge #3
Challenge
Design Constraints
Learning outcomes
Design a 3D Model using tinkercad.com that we will then print on our 3D Printer as a introduction to Rapid Prototyping
Model ideas:
- key-chain
- Fishing Lure
- Name-tag
Be sure to share your final project on our Padlet!!!
Model must be withing 10cm x 10cm x 2 cm
Exceptions can be made for smaller but taller models if approved by Mr. Leitch
Be creative! The sky is the limit!
- Take creative risks in generating ideas and add to others’ ideas in ways that enhance them
- Prototype, making changes to tools, materials, and procedures as needed
- Develop an appropriate test of the prototype
- Identify and use appropriate tools, technologies, materials, and processes for production
- Choose, adapt, and if necessary learn about appropriate tools and technologies to use for tasks
Design Challenge #4
Challenge
Design Constraints
Learning outcomes
Design a Battle Bot that will try to incapacitate their opponent.
The Robot will be controlled using a tethered remote and an H-Bridge circuit.
The body must be made from recycled or re-purposed materials.
Design must include:
- 5 rough design ideas
- 1 refined idea
- 1 final draft, with a scale, detailed drawing
There must be no potential to hurt anyone that handles the bot: no sharp edges, no flames, to chemicals, etc. If you aren’t sure, ask Mr. Leitch
Components of an electric circuit
Ohm’s law
Mechanical advantage and power efficiency, including friction, force, and torque
Uses of electronics and robotics
Surf Glider Paper Airplane – https://www.airspacemag.com/articles/paper-airplane-flies-forever-180950340/
Leitch Tech latest news
Vex Robotics Competition WIN!
Congratulations to all the competitors today. Our robotics team was able to secure a win against the D.P. Todd Trojans Robotics team 13 – 10! Well done everyone.
Iron Chef Cooking Competition
What an amazing event! All students showcased some delicious cooking skills. Congratulations to everyone, and to our new Iron Chef, R.
Robotics Race Results
Congratulations to all the competitors. Everyone created a unique design, and had a great time doing it. K, L, and S’s team swept 3/3 races, though it was VERY close.
Design Draw class off to a great start!
Got right at it first thing this morning with rapid design and drawing exercises. Great crew.
Mechanics Class is Up and Running!
Organized the shop and got our mechanics corner looking good. Starting to get the snowmobile back together in our mechanics class with J.K. and M.
New Robotic Engineering Class
Our new group of Robotic Engineers got right to work today organizing their VEX IQ kits and starting their first design challenge. It is great to be back to the school with everyone!
BBQ and SUMO!
Congratulations to our VEX EDR teams. That was a great BBQ yesterday and we have our first fully functional VEX EDR Sumo Robot! Thanks everyone.
Robot Programming Challenge Winner
Congratulations to L. B. for being the first to program a functioning autonomous sumo robot!
Time to order parts!
Some groups are ready to order auto parts for their groups. Be sure to let me know ASAP when you know what you need. – Mr. Leitch
Engine Progress
One way or another that engine is coming out tomorrow! Great work today engine crew in Block A.
Leitch Tech 
