Get Learning: Robo Arm
Thursday 23rd May 2019Humans have lots in common with robots, especially when it comes to arms. The area of robotics is an exciting one – and a technology which has the capacity to improve peoples’ lives, particularly those who have physical disabilities.
In preparation a Leader should create a Robo Arm in advance so they know how it works and can show the young people the finished product.
Aim;
Use the completed Robo Arm hand to pick up an object.
Equipment
- Thin 2 ply cardboard
- 2 paper straws
- String
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun or strong tape
- Ruler
- Pencil/Pen
Instructions
Lay the cardboard flat on a table. Place your arm flat on the cardboard and ask your friend to draw around your arm, hand and fingers.
Cut out the Robo Arm.
Like your fingers the Robo Arm hand needs three finger bends marked on the cardboard.
Cut pieces of straw (12 mm) length and glue to the areas between the finger bends.
Thread through lengths of string and glue to the top of each finger point.
Cut out cardboard strips for each finger/thumb, and glue or tape the pieces to form a ring.
Cut out a cardboard band to go around the palm of your hand, glue or tape to the Robo hand.
Cut the strings to length to glue/tape to the cardboard rings. Carefully work out the lengths of strings so you can control the Robo Arm fingers.
Try out your Robo Arm to see if it works!
Going further
Can you make the hand hook, reach or grasp different objects?
Build a Robo Arm for each of your hands
Try different materials
Why not get crafty with your Robo Arm and decorate it?
Staying safe
Use extra caution with the hot glue gun!
