Electronics, Robotics and Control

What this page covers

This unit sits in the Systems and Structures strand of Design and technology. The resources split into three clear areas: electronic components and circuits, energy generation and storage, and robots and how they are designed.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map Electronics. It lists components such as the power supply, resistor and switch, and says what each one does. Next, open the mind map Core 1.6 Electronic systems. It covers sensors, light dependent resistors, thermistors, transistors, buzzers and light-emitting diodes. Then read the note GSCE Technology & Design, which explains that a thermistor has a high resistance in cold and a low resistance in heat.

Energy and materials

Two maps called Core 1.3 Energy Generation, Storage and Use cover fossil fuels, biomass, tidal, wind, hydroelectric and solar power, as well as batteries, cells and mains electricity. The Design and Technology Unit 2 mind map goes through renewable energy types. The DT revision flashcard deck asks what renewable and non renewable energy sources are and asks for examples of each.

Robots and projects

Several mind maps look at robots. Some weigh the pros and cons of robotics. Others show design ideas, such as the Relocating Powerpack C maps, which compare scissor lift, telescopic pole and forklift designs and different ways to grip a payload. You will also find sumo robot, lifting droid and mech robot maps, plus a few flowcharts, including one on soldering the electronic parts of an artefact.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a map first, then test yourself. The Materials and Energy quiz asks about ductility, hardness, and electrical and thermal conductivity. There is also a short revision quiz. If you miss a question, go back to the matching map, then try the quiz again.

Choose one map today, take a quiz afterward, and see what you remember.