Introduction and Fundamentals


Learning Objectives:

By the end of this unit, you will be able to:

1. Decompose (break down) problems into smaller, manageable sub problems    to facilitate the program development process. 

2. Test and debug (identify and fix errors) a program or algorithm to ensure it runs as intended.


(Age group for this course: 17-19 years)


Message to the participants:



Programmers, We have learned quite a few things about robotics and coding in our previous courses. Let's gear up to the next level of Virtual Robotics at the brand new platform called 'VR Vex'. 

We'll be learning the following concepts in this course:

1. Controls 

2. Algorithms 

3. Modularity 

4. Storage 

5. Development Algorithms

6. Hardware & software

7. Storage 

8. Variables

Let's get you set up!


Go to the following link: 

https://vr.vex.com/

  • Click on the top right button to initiate 'Playground'.
  • The playground is the pop-up window where you can see your challenges and run simulations.
  • For each activity/challenge, you will have to select a specific playground.
  • Activity description and goals will be provided in this unit.

  • Convert VR Vex into python gym by following the snap below


Warm-up activity


VR Activity Distance Drive
Activity Description Explore the movement controls of the VR Robot.
Playground Grid Map
Key Programming Concepts Forward/ Reverse Movement, Turning
From the dropdown at the top of the 'PLAYGROUND' window select 'Grid Map'

Read your mission details below

Challenges:  

Level 1 Program the VR Robot to drive forward 3 grid squares. How far should you program the VR Robot to move if you want it to travel 3 grid squares?
Level 2 Program the VR Robot to drive forward 6 grid squares, turn around, and drive back 6 grid squares. How many degrees did you have to turn to face the way you came? What is the total distance traveled? Use a calculator and/or pencil and paper to find out.
Level 3 Program the VR Robot to drive in a square. Make each side of the square 3 grid squares long. What is the area of your square in mm? Use a calculator and/or pencil and paper to find out.  

Helpful Hints


  • Each square in the Grid Map measures 200mm by 200mm.
  • Try changing the distance to program the VR Robot to move shorter or farther distances on the Drive for the text from the Drivetrain category.


For a shorter distance.

For a longer distance.


Basketball Activity

Here's another exciting challenge for you!
VR Activity Basketball Drills.
Activity Description Program the VR Robot to move forward and reverse to various distances.
Playground Grid Map
Key Programming Concepts Forward/ Reverse Movement, Turning

Challenge:

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1		 Program the VR Robot to drive forward 1 grid square. Next, program the VR robot to drive reverse to the beginning point. Continue this pattern for 2 grid squares, then 4 grid squares.

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2		 Program the VR Robot to drive forward 1 grid square, stop, and return back 1 grid square to where the VR Robot started without using the reverse block. The VR Robot will need to turn around to drive back to the first position. Continue this pattern for 2 grid squares, then 4 grid squares
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3		 Build an algorithm (a process or set of rules) to move through all 1 to 8 grid squares in sequential order. The VR Robot should move to 1, go back to start, move to 2, go back to start. Continue this pattern for all 8 grid squares.

Helpful Hints


  • Each square in the Grid Map measures 200mm by 200mm. 
  • Want to make your project shorter? Try using the Repeat block from the Control category. 
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Resources:

Last modified: Monday, 21 December 2020, 2:24 PM