Boy Scout Robotics Merit Badge Camp

Boy Scout Robotics Merit Badge Requirements can be viewed at USScouts.org.

Additional resources available at Boys’ Life.

Before the Camp

All Robotics Merit Badge requirements will NOT be covered during the camp. 

Boy Scouts should complete their Robotics Merit Badge workbook prior to attending camp, except for items 4 and 5.  Our Merit Badge Counselors will NOT sign scout’s blue cards if the workbook is not complete.  We will NOT have time during the camp for scouts to work on items other than items 4 and 5. 

Boy Scouts are to complete a robot engineering notebook.  Boy Scouts will NOT be provided a notebook at the Robotics Camp; they should bring a notebook or binder with them. 

Boy Scouts will work in groups and use a Lego Mindstorm kit to build their robot during Robotics Camp.  Boy Scouts will NOT be allowed to keep the robot they construct using our kit. If you would like your Boy Scouts to keep the robot they construct, please contact us and we can discuss kits that are available for purchase.

Research Resources

1a.  Safety:  What are the most likely hazards you may encounter while working with robots and what should you do to anticipate, mitigate and prevent, and respond to these hazards?  Describe the appropriate safety gear and clothing that should be used when working with robotics.

1b.  Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in robotics activities and competitions, including eye injuries and burns (chemical or heat).

2a.  What kinds of things can robots do and how are they best used today?

2b.  What are the similarities and differences between remote-controlled vehicles, telerobots, and autonomous robots?

2c.  What are three different methods robots can use to move themselves other than wheels or tracks?  Describe when it would be appropriate to use each method.

3.  Discuss three of the five major fields of robotics (human-robot interface, mobility, manipulation, programming, sensors) and their importance to robotics development.  Discuss either of the three fields as they relate to a  single robot system.

  • Robot Systems:
    http://prime.jsc.nasa.gov/ROV/systems.html
         human-robot interface (click on Controller)
         mobility (click on Mobility)
         manipulation (click on Tools)
         sensors (click on Sensors)

4.  Design, built, and test a robot.  (Done at Robotics Merit Badge Camp.)

5.  Demonstrate your robot to your counselor.  (Done at Robotics Merit Badge Camp.)

6.  Attend or learn about robotics competitions.

7.  Name three career opportunities in robotics.  Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession.

For fun