NeuroMaze: Mapping Neural Pathways Through Robotic Navigation of a Simple Maze
Students creating a code for the ultimate challenge.Copyright Oghaghare Okobiah
In this activity, students learn concepts related to the brain and nervous system via a hands-on mini robot activity. They learn about the similarities between the human brain and its engineering counterpart, the computer, as they create a program to navigate a maze. Given that students work with computers routinely, this comparison strengthens their understanding of both how the brain works and how the computer parallels the brain’s processing power, in addition to reinforcing human and robot interactions. Students strengthen their skills in experimental design, the engineering design process, testing, prototyping, and asking questions—important skill sets needed for success in the 21st century marketplace.
Biological engineers and neuroscientists perceive the human body as a functioning, controlled system, similar to a robot. Research shows that electrical, mechanical, and biological engineers may apply mathematical principles similar to those used in human brains and systems as they continue to devise better robots, computers, and sensors. In this lesson, students compare the functionalities of human brains and robot computers, noting the similarities and differences. In the fields of biological engineering and systems neurobiology, engineers are becoming more involved in human body research and efforts to replicate the functioning of many of its systems. Electrical circuits, motors, gears and controls are all taught in the electrical, mechanical, instrumentation and control, and biomedical engineering disciplines.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Define what a robot is.
- Describe the main components of a robot.
- Identify and describe different lobes of the brain, and their functions.
- Explain how the ELECFREAK Mini Cutebot robot can be programmed to move.
- Explain how engineers apply robotics and the engineering design process to solve.