Robot Design — Brainstorm & Build a Prototype
How do we turn many rough ideas into one working prototype?
- Apply brainstorming techniques to generate multiple design ideas
- Sketch annotated drawings of a proposed robot
- Build a low-cost prototype from cardboard, Lego or recycled parts
Overview
The best first idea is rarely the best final idea. This week we brainstorm at least ten designs, pick the strongest two, sketch them clearly, and start a cardboard or Lego prototype. Cheap prototypes catch problems early — before we burn any real parts.
Brainstorm rules
Aim for quantity over quality. No judgement while ideas are flowing. Build on each other's ideas. Wild ideas welcome — they often trigger a good final idea.
Annotated sketches
A sketch communicates design decisions. Label parts, show sizes, mark the direction of movement, and add short notes explaining each function. A stranger should understand your robot from the sketch alone.
Why prototype in cardboard?
Cardboard is cheap and fast. If the geometry is wrong, throw it away and cut a new one in minutes. Only move to expensive parts (motors, sensors, batteries) once the shape and layout are proven.
Ten ideas → one prototype
- As a group, brainstorm 10 or more design ideas in 10 minutes — no criticism allowed.
- Vote and pick the top 2 ideas.
- Sketch each with labelled parts and functions.
- Start a cardboard or Lego prototype of your chosen design; photograph it and paste it into your log book.
- State one brainstorm rule.
Reveal answer
Quantity over quality — no judgement while ideas are flowing.
- Why prototype in cardboard first?
Reveal answer
It is cheap and fast to change, so mistakes cost nothing.
- What must an annotated sketch include?
Reveal answer
Labels of parts, sizes and short notes explaining each function.
Sketch two alternative designs for one of your objectives and explain which is better.