LTTA1 and PR2 –  “S.T.E.P.S. Project: Design and development of the new generation of open source educational robot”

LTTA1 Meeting

  • Date:  29/01/2024
  • Location: Virtual (Online)
  • Lead Organization: Charokopeio Panepistimio (HUA), Greece
  • Objective: Establishing the methodology for Project Result 2 (PR2)

Agenda (v1)

Session 1 – Demonstration Session (2 hours)

  1. Introduction and Overview (35 mins)
    1. Welcome, and objectives of the workshop.
    1. A brief overview of FOSSbot’s history and capabilities.
    1. Live demo on the physical robot.
  2. Installation and Setup (35 mins)
    1. Step-by-step guide for installing the FOSSbot software.
    1. Addressing common installation queries.
  3. Exploring FOSSbot’s Features (50 mins)
    1. A detailed look at the WebUI IDE based on Blockly.
    1. Introduction to the Coppelia Simulator for simulation twin.   

Break (15 mins)

Session 2 – Interactive Session (2 hours)

Using the FOSSbot (2 hours)

  • Hands-on experience with the FOSSbot using the WebUI.
    • Basic exercises to familiarize with the Blockly interface and simulator (One example per sensor).
    • Techniques for creating educational material using Coppelia Simulator.

Break (15 mins)

Session 3 – Session (1 hour 30 mins)

  • Project Development and Q&A (45 mins)
    • Short project development exercise using learned skills.
    • Final Q&A session to address any remaining questions.
  • Wrap-Up and Resources (15 mins)
    • Recap of key takeaways from the workshop.

Before the workshop

Resource Distribution: Share digital resources, such as installation guides, tutorials, and references, for post-workshop learning.

After the workshop

Resource Distribution: Share digitally all the examples and the slides from the workshop.

Survey: Google Forms survey about the workshop, FOSSBot usage, and suggestions.

During LTTA1, participants focus on setting up a comprehensive framework and methodology for developing the S.T.E.P.S. educational robot. The discussion cover best practices in robotics education, specific goals for the robot design, and necessary pedagogical adjustments to ensure alignment with STEM educational needs. This session was essential for laying the groundwork for later stages of robot design and development.

Project Result 2 (PR2) – Design and Development of the S.T.E.P.S. Robot

PR2 is a critical output that involves designing and developing a new open-source educational robot, a refined version of the FOSSBot. Its aim is to create a cost-effective and user-friendly robot model that can be used across different educational settings. The scope of PR2 includes:

  • Design Improvements: Enhancing the physical structure and electronic components for ease of assembly and durability.
  • Open-source Accessibility: Ensuring the robot is accessible and modifiable, with detailed technical and instructional documentation.
  • Educational Integration: Incorporating features and programming capabilities that support STEM learning objectives for secondary education.

The insights gained in LTTA1 will directly contribute to shaping the final design and functionality of the robot to align with educational needs in robotics and STEM​.