Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy: Electrical Foundations

Master the Basics of Electricity and Circuitry One Session at a Time!

This 10-session course provides a hands-on introduction to the foundational concepts of electricity and circuitry. Using Arduino as the core microcontroller, students will learn how to work with circuits, control signals, and integrate sensors. By the end of the program, participants will construct an e-panel, a system containing all the components of a typical robotic system, providing practical experience applicable to robotics and engineering projects.

Developed by Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy

This course was developed by the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy (CMRA), a global leader in robotics education. CMRA researches how educators can use robots to teach Computer Science, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CS-STEM). Their mission is to create CS-STEM opportunities for all learners by designing research-based, classroom-tested solutions to foreground essential STEM concepts.

Course Schedule

Session 1: Exploring Circuits

• Identify electrical components and their functions.
• Learn basic skills: crimping, wire construction, and using multimeters.
• Concepts covered: voltage, conductors, insulators, loads.
• Mini-Challenges: Simplest Circuit, An Unwanted Shortcut.

Session 2: Wiring and Connectors

• Understand wire types, coloring, and connectors.
• Use electrical tape and test wire connections.
• Build a lightbox using simple switches and circuits.
• Mini-Project: Test Your Wire.

Session 3: Voltage in Parallel and Series Circuits

• Explore the difference between parallel and series circuits.
• Learn about voltage drops and shared voltage nodes.
• Create an LED sign with a wiring panel.
• Mini-Challenges: Voltage Investigation, Parallel Circuits.

Session 4: Voltage and Current for Motors

• Understand voltage and current requirements for motors.
• Explore motor direction, fuses, and rechargeable batteries.
• Build and test a fan circuit.
• Mini-Project: Current Investigation, Larger Battery.

Session 5: Controlling Signals with Arduino

• Learn how to send and control signals using Arduino.
• Work with relays and motor control boards.
• Program an Arduino to control high and low signals.
• Unit Project: Build a 2-Wheeled Cart.

Session 6: Sensors and Microcontrollers

• Integrate digital and analog sensors with Arduino.
• Learn about limit switches, ultrasonic sensors, and their applications.
• Control motors using real-time sensor input.
• Mini-Challenges: Detecting Bumps, Detecting Objects from a Distance.

Session 7: Building the E-Panel

• Organize and label wires for easy troubleshooting.
• Create wiring harnesses and use conduits for organization.
• Plan and execute the layout of an e-panel system.
• Mini-Challenge: Labeling Wires.

Session 8: Introduction to Soldering

• Understand soldering tools, safety procedures, and techniques.
• Practice soldering connections and check continuity with a multimeter.
• Build a small soldered circuit and fix soldering mistakes.
• Mini-Challenges: Solder Both Ends, Solder a Simple Circuit.

Session 9: Final E-Panel Project

• Integrate all learned components into a complete e-panel.
• Ensure proper spacing, labeling, and wiring for easy troubleshooting.
• Test the e-panel’s functionality with real-world scenarios.

Session 10: Final Presentations and Wrap-Up

• Present your e-panel and demonstrate its functionality.
• Reflect on lessons learned and discuss real-world applications of electrical systems.
• Celebrate your achievements with a certificate of completion (if applicable).

Course Highlights

• Hands-On Learning: Work directly with Arduino and real electrical components.
• Step-By-Step Instruction: Build your skills progressively, mastering each topic before moving on.
• Real-World Applications: Learn how circuits and signals are used in robotics and other industries.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Develop critical thinking and troubleshooting abilities through hands-on projects.

Who Should Join?

This course is perfect for:

• Middle and high school students interested in electronics, robotics, and engineering.
• Beginners eager to learn about electricity, circuitry, and Arduino programming.