How to Build a Wiggle Bot to Teach Engineering and Design

Oct 9, 2019
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Introduction

Welcome to the world of STEM education, where imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills come to life! In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to build a wiggle bot, a versatile little robot that can be used to teach engineering and design concepts to students of all ages.

What is a Wiggle Bot?

A wiggle bot, also known as a vibrobot or a bristlebot, is a small robotic creature that wiggles and moves when its vibration motor is activated. It may seem simple, but it offers a great opportunity to explore various engineering principles and introduce the basics of design thinking.

Materials Needed

  • Toothbrush head
  • Small pager motor
  • Battery holder
  • On/off switch
  • Double-sided tape
  • Wire cutters
  • Wire strippers
  • Batteries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Toothbrush

Start by removing the bristles from the toothbrush head. You can easily do this by gently pulling them out or using wire cutters. Ensure the head is clean and free from any debris.

Step 2: Attach the Motor

Using double-sided tape or glue, secure the pager motor to the flat backside of the toothbrush head. Make sure the rotating shaft of the motor is aligned with the bristle side of the head.

Step 3: Connect the Wires

Using wire strippers, remove a small section of insulation from the ends of the motor and battery holder wires. Twist the exposed wires together, ensuring a secure connection. Connect the positive (red) wire from the motor to the positive terminal of the battery holder, and the negative (black) wire from the motor to the negative terminal.

Step 4: Secure the Battery Holder

Attach the battery holder to the toothbrush head using double-sided tape or glue. Place it in a position that allows easy access to the on/off switch.

Step 5: Insert the Batteries

Insert the required number of batteries into the battery holder, ensuring they are properly aligned with the positive and negative terminals.

Teaching Engineering and Design

Now that you have successfully built your wiggle bot, it's time to explore the endless possibilities it offers for teaching engineering and design concepts. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Exploring Vibration and Movement

Invite students to observe how their wiggle bots move and explore the principles of vibration. Discuss the connection between the rotation of the motor shaft and the resulting movement of the bot. Encourage them to experiment with different surfaces and observe how it affects the bot's motion.

2. Designing and Building Custom Bodies

Challenge students to design and create unique bodies for their wiggle bots using readily available materials. Encourage them to think about different shapes, sizes, and weights, and how they can influence the bot's movement. This activity promotes creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

3. Engineering Challenges

Create engineering challenges that require students to apply their knowledge of mechanical systems and problem-solving skills. For example, task them with designing a bot that can navigate a maze, climb a slope, or carry a load. These challenges help develop resilience, perseverance, and teamwork.

4. Integrating with Other STEM Concepts

Connect the wiggle bot project with other STEM disciplines such as physics, mathematics, and computer science. Explore how changes in variables like motor speed or weight distribution affect the bot's performance. Introduce basic programming concepts to control the bot's movements using microcontrollers.

Conclusion

Building a wiggle bot is an excellent way to engage students in hands-on learning, foster their creativity, and ignite their passion for engineering and design. By combining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, this project provides a well-rounded educational experience. So why wait? Gather the materials, follow the step-by-step instructions, and embark on a journey of discovery and innovation with your very own wiggle bot!