Robotics in Practice: Programming and Building Smart Systems

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles of robotics and automated systems.
• Learn how to build simple circuits using sensors, motors and other electronic components.
• Program Arduino microcontrollers to control physical inputs and outputs using structured logic.
• Apply knowledge of electronics and coding to create interactive and autonomous systems.
• Develop a functional final project that integrates the key concepts and skills acquired during the course.

Schedule

Module 1 – Introduction to Robotics and Arduino

• What is a robotic system? Key concepts: sensors, actuators, control
• Differences between robotics, automation, and physical computing
• Overview of the Arduino platform: components, capabilities, and uses
• Setting up the Arduino IDE and connecting the board
• Writing and uploading your first sketch (“Blink” program)

Module 2 – Basic Components and Circuit Building

• Understanding input and output: digital vs analog
• Using LEDs, resistors, push buttons, and potentiometers
• Building circuits with a breadboard and jumper wires
• Reading digital inputs and writing outputs in code
• Simple interactive circuits (e.g. button-controlled LED, buzzer alert)

Module 3 – Programming Logic with Arduino

• Structure of an Arduino sketch: setup() and loop()
• Variables, data types, and comments
• Control structures: conditional statements (if, else), loops (for, while)
• Creating reusable code with functions
• Timing and delays: using delay() vs millis() for non-blocking code

Module 4 – Sensors and Input-Driven Behaviour

• Reading values from analog sensors (light, temperature, distance)
• Signal interpretation and calibration
• Triggering outputs based on sensor data
• Creating responsive systems based on environmental conditions
• Guided projects: light-activated systems, motion alerts, basic automation

Module 5 – Actuators and Movement

• Introduction to actuators: servo motors, DC motors, motor drivers
• Basic motor control with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
• Integrating sensor input with motion output
• Programming simple behaviours: obstacle avoidance, directional control
• Mini project: autonomous robot or motorised system

Module 6 – Testing, Debugging and System Optimization

• Testing strategies for hardware and code
• Common issues with circuits and microcontrollers
• Debugging techniques in Arduino IDE (serial monitor, step testing)
• Optimising circuit layout and program structure
• Preparing for the final project: system planning and prototyping

Module 7 – Final Project: Building a Smart Robotic System

• Selecting a challenge or task (e.g. line follower, smart alarm, reactive bot)
• Designing the circuit and control logic
• Integrating multiple components: sensors, actuators, and code
• Assembly, testing, and performance tuning
• Final presentation and demonstration of each working system