The success of a designed solution is determined by considering the desired features of a solution (criteria).

Possible solutions to a problem are limited by available materials and resources (constraints). This activity focuses on the following Three Dimensional Learning aspects of NGSS:ĭefine a simple design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system and includes several criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.Īlignment agreement: Thanks for your feedback! Explain how some problems have multiple possible solutions, and not necessarily one best solution.ĭefine a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.Ĭlick to view other curriculum aligned to this Performance Expectation.Explain the importance of revising and improving designs.Design robots that are able to push another robot by determining suitable gear ratios, power settings and robot weight.Whether designing to program a Mars Rover or designing to construct vehicles relying on power and torque, such as bulldozers and tractors, engineers follow the steps of the engineering design process to create optimal and successful products and solutions for specific challenges.Īfter this activity, students should be able to: Engineers tackle similar challenges routinely and devise good and creative solutions. This engineering curriculum aligns to Next Generation Science Standards ( NGSS).Ĭonstructing and programming 'sumobots' involves a physical design component as well as a programming component, thus requiring students to consider multiple parameters and numerous approaches in their designs. A PowerPoint® presentation, pre/post quizzes and a worksheet are provided. This activity gives students the opportunity to be creative as well as have fun applying and combining what they have learned through the previous activities and lessons in this and prior units in the series. A class competition serves as the final test to determine the best designed robot, illustrating the interrelationships between designing, building and programming.

To meet the challenge, groups follow the steps of the engineering design process and consider robot structure, weight and gear ratios in their designs to make their robots push as hard as possible to force robot opponents out of the ring. Students apply their knowledge of constructing and programming LEGO® MINDSTORMS® robots to create sumobots-strong robots capable of pushing other robots out of a ring.

Lego battlebots