Today, the campers were introduced to the engineering and programming concepts of light sensors and touch sensors. In the "Color Kicker" activity, campers were challenged to design, build, and program a device to "kick" a red ball in one direction and a blue ball in another direction. This device used the light sensor to determine the color of the ball, is the basis of many robotic selection devices used in manufacturing and industrial pick-and-place applications. Next, the campers were introduced to "River Rising," a river flooding scenario in which a semi-tractor trailer loaded with drums of oil was perched precariously close to a river bank that was close to collapse. The challenge was to design, build, and program a robotic vehicle to retrieve the trailer, using only the touch sensor for input. This problem called upon the campers to work together and come up with their very best design ideas. 

Teams learned a variety of skills all in preparation for the Robot Derby events to be held on Day Five. Parents, grandparents, family, and friends - you are all welcome to join the Derby Day events after our morning break at 2:30 so your camper can demonstrate some of his or her projects. Bring your cameras and be ready to experience MSU Robotics Camp 2010 at its finest!

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Extra! Check out these videos! Click on any of the links below. Have patience! These are big files. 
Color Kicker 1
Color Kicker 2
Color Kicker 3