Date
Saturday, 29 Jul 2017 3:15 PM
We will explore how components are used for large systems. The future of electronics and systems design is that more and more things are modular, and systems-level controls play a larger and larger role. This aligns with a subgroup of teaching in STEAM – (Science Tech. Art Engineering Math)
For beginners to electronics we will explore:
LittleBits components (which are snap-able) to facilitate a speedy physical understanding, during lab, of our core topic. We have large kits of these available now. They allow for hands on exploratory discovery of system-level outcomes.
For intermediate youth:
We can also use breadboards, circuitry, wires and micro-controllers. The DIY Electronics ecosystem is all about buying specific modules for specific tasks, eg. a temperature sensor module, talks to an Arduino ‘brain’ module, which sends outputs to an LCD screen module.
Themes we will touch on:
1) Modular electronics for homes
Drawing inspiration from items around the house, lights, ovens for cooking, and toys, we explore how technology can be used to create input and output systems.
2) Technology behind cars
Looking at real cars, and other transportation devices, we will explore how electronics systems control things in cars like head lights, and the components that make the car move – wheels, motors, steering, etc.
3) Space Science
We will explore how NASA is using robotics/remote control commutation, and data to collect measurements and travel among the planets.
4) Basics of Modular Electronics
A look at how modules are used to build complex systems out of simple components. We will explore how systems flow from inputs to outputs, and how electronics connect to send power and data.
Agenda (How we cover things)
• Lecture (brief) to kids – over all delivery of objects we want to cover during period. Concepts with introduction to physical models.
• Demonstrations. Physical examples and other ways for them to understand.
• Lab for all: Provide blocks/tools/materials that can be used to support information covered in lecture. Kids can free-style their creativity or we can guide them through their creation or provide alternative projects (other short projects) they want to do.
• Post Lab: An opportunity to engage with kids on projects they crafted, or provide help. We can emphasize this period as a time for discussion.
This is the first inaugural youth event from MoCo Makers, a community of engineers, tinkers, and technologists. If you want to see more of these events, or help with these kinds of events, please let us know.