Robot Design and Applications

Start with a design task

Begin with one of the two maps titled Relocating Powerpack C. These look at reaching, gripping, transporting and depositing a payload. Their branches include scissor lift, telescopic pole and forklift designs, as well as different gripping ideas. Follow the stages in order, then compare the design options shown in each map.

As you study, note which ideas relate to reaching the payload and which relate to gripping or moving it. The two maps share a title, so open both to explore their different branches.

Explore movement and shape

Next, try Lifting Droid/Mech, which organizes ideas around parts such as the body, arms and legs, along with movement options including wheels and tracks. Lifting Robot/Droid also explores movement and body parts, with branches on fuel type and control.

For another design approach, open Project PRAISE. Its branches ask how the robot will move and navigate, with ideas ranging from wheels to programmed movements. You can compare these branches with the movement ideas in the lifting maps.

Consider applications and viewpoints

Pros and Cons of Robots and Robotics pros and cons offer viewpoints on robots and work. Read the maps alongside the design resources and look for the applications and claims each one includes. The maps were made by GoConqr users, so comparing their ideas can be a useful part of studying.

This topic is one section of a unit in Design and technology. Use its maps to gather design ideas and consider applications as you work through the wider unit.

Check your understanding

This page lists mind maps rather than quizzes. After studying a map, try recalling its main branches before opening it again. A free account lets you make your own quiz from the ideas you want to check and save your quiz scores. Return to the map to review any branches you missed.

Open a map and follow a branch that interests you.