Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy: Mechanical Foundations with REV DUO (Adults)

Mechanical Foundations with REV DUO

Discover the mechanical principles that power modern robotics in this hands-on course meeting once or twice per week. Perfect for aspiring engineers and robotics enthusiasts, you’ll learn to design, construct, and maintain robotic systems using REV DUO kits. Explore core concepts such as structure, power transmission, motion, and mechanisms through engaging, practical activities.

To earn a certificate, students must complete the projects according to the given specifications, which will be reviewed and approved by instructors before submission. Additionally, students must pass the final exam with a score of 70% or better to complete the course and earn their certification successfully. The cost for the certification is an additional $200.

Topics Covered

• Stable robotic structures: strength, balance, and center of gravity
• Fasteners, brackets, gussets, and best practices for rigidity
• Power transmission systems and mechanical advantage
• Gear trains, gear ratios, and trade-offs between speed and torque
• Linkages, levers, and common mechanisms (arms, lifts, intakes)
• Bearings, shafts, and alignment to reduce friction
• Custom drivetrain design: tank, omni, and mecanum configurations
• Chassis layout, weight distribution, and center-of-mass management
• Prototyping, testing, iteration, and failure analysis
• Tool use, measurement, tolerances, and safety fundamentals
• Hands-on challenges: reinforced 3D structures, obstacle climbing, speed vs. torque tests

Format and Schedule

• Meeting Frequency: once or twice per week
• Pacing: continue weekly until completion (typically ~10 sessions; accelerated options may finish in 4–5 sessions)
• Session Length: 1.5 hours

Skills Development

• Mechanical design fundamentals for robotics
• Effective use of tools and hardware
• Design trade-offs and optimization (rigidity, efficiency, traction)
• Structured testing, debugging, and iterative improvement

Ideal for

• Adults interested in robotics, programming, and engineering
• No prior experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to build

Format

• Schedule: once or twice per week (you choose the day and time)
• Duration: two to six months, depending on prior experience
• Materials Provided: ShieldBot kits, Arduino boards, cameras, and more

Enroll Now! Spots are limited. Reserve your seat and start building, coding, and innovating—one week at a time.