Session 1A: Foundations — Concepts
- Overview: REV DUO, shop policies, PPE
- Tools: drivers, hex keys, measuring
- Principles: strength, stability, balance
Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy: Mechanical Foundations
$299.99
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Mastering Mechanical Design and Robotics with Hands-On REV DUO Projects
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Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy: Mechanical Foundations
Class Meeting Schedule: Mondays/Wednesdays 6:00 - 7:30
Mechanical Foundations with REV DUO — 24-Session Course
Class Size: 1–4 students. Additional instructors may be added as needed to support newcomers and maintain quality.
Total Duration: 3–6 months.
This project-based course emphasizes hands-on learning. Students who watch videos at home, come prepared, and stay on schedule can complete the program in about 3–4 months with a 1.5-hour weekly class commitment. To earn a certificate, students must:
- Complete all projects to specification (reviewed and approved by instructors before upload).
- Pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher.
Project timelines vary by age, manual dexterity, and attention span.
The certification exam costs an additional $200.
Group Discounts: 10% (2–3 members), 25% (4 members).
Open Enrollment: New students are welcome to join at any time. Self-paced structure makes mid-course additions simple.
24-Session Robotics Course (REV DUO)
Session 1B: Foundations — Build
- Mini-project: Stable rectangular base
- Square, align, torque checks.
- Peer inspection and notes
Session 2A: Reinforcement & CoG — Concepts
- Gussets, triangles, and cross-bracing theory
- Center of gravity and tipping models
- Plan reinforcement for the base
Session 2B: Reinforcement & CoG — Build/Test
- Apply bracing to the base.
- Tipping tests and iteration
- Record before/after results
Session 3A: 3D Structures — Concepts
- From frames to 3D assemblies
- Joint integrity, fastener selection
- Torque specs and thread engagement
Session 3B: 3D Structures — Build/Test
- Mini-challenge: 3D load-bearing build
- Deflection and load tests
- Improve joints for stiffness.
Session 4A: Project — Riverbed Crane (Plan)
- Requirements, sketching, constraints
- Risk assessment and test plan
- Bill of materials and schedule
Session 4B: Riverbed Crane (Build Sprint 1)
- Assemble the frame and base.
- Verify alignment and rigidity.
- Document issues and fixes
Session 5A: Motion Basics — Concepts
- Torque, speed, power trade-offs
- Mechanical advantage, ratio math
- Transmission types overview
Session 5B: Motion Basics — Build
- Mini-project: Motorized fan
- Measure RPM vs load qualitatively
- Safety and balancing
Session 6A: Gears & Sprockets — Concepts
- Simple/compound gear trains
- Chains, sprockets, tensioning theory
- Backlash and alignment
Session 6B: Gears & Sprockets — Build/Test
- Assemble two ratios for comparison.
- Tune for speed vs torque.
- Record performance differences
Session 7A: Optimized Lifting — Concepts
- Staged reductions and efficiency
- Backdriving and holding strategies
- Select ratios for crane lift
Session 7B: Optimized Lifting — Upgrade Build
- Install lift gearing/chain system.
- Guide rails and supports
- Initial lift validation
Session 8A: Drivetrains — Concepts
- Chassis, wheelbase, weight distribution
- Motors, wheels, and gearboxes choices
- Layout and mounting strategy
Session 8B: Drivetrains — Build
- Mini-project: 2-motor drivetrain
- Square frame, bearing alignment
- Smoke test and checklist
Session 9A: Advanced Drives — Concepts
- Omni vs traction vs mecanum
- Turning dynamics, scrub, CoF
- Wheel selection for terrain
Session 9B: Advanced Drives — Challenge
- Tune gearing/tires for ramp.
- Timed climb and descent
- Iterate for target performance.
Session 10A: Project — Obstacle Drive (Plan)
- Select drivetrain architecture
- Bill of materials and layout
- Metrics: climb angle, speed, control
Session 10B: Obstacle Drive (Build)
- Assemble chassis and transmission.
- Tension chains/belts; align gears
- Initial drive tests
Session 11A: Integration — Concepts
- Intro to sensors/encoders
- Power routing, cable management
- Safety interlocks and guards
Session 11B: Integration — Apply
- Add a sensor/encoder to a subsystem.
- Service loops, labeling
- Reliability checks
Session 12A: Capstone — Prep
- Combine lift + mobility goals.
- Test plan, data sheets, rubric
- Assign roles and timeline.
Session 12B: Capstone — Demo & Assessment
- Final challenge run(s)
- Data, presentation, reflection
- Final exam (70%+ to pass)
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