Use your head and the Photon Robot

The task is to program the robot that moves in any direction (forward, backward, clockwise, and counterclockwise turn) – to control the robot, students may not use the PC keyboard or mouse – the movement must be sensor-activated/triggered.

• Students must have a basic knowledge of Scratch.
• Describe the task:
  • The robot’s movement control must allow for it to move in any direction.
  • The key rule here is not to use the PC keyboard or mouse to control the Photon Robot.
  • The students are encouraged to use a large cardboard box without one side and a flashlight to test sensor-based solutions/programs.
• Remind students that programmed triggers (events) might cause the robot to behave differently and encourage them to explore various programming blocks available in the Photon programming section.
• If your group has only the very basic knowledge of Scratch, inspire your students - show them how to use selected blocks that “might prove useful.”
• Each student (or a pair) is encouraged to test their programs - provide them with the Magic Dongle, connect the robot to their own workstation, and test the program. Make sure to compare the output/performance with the student’s initial concept.

Sample solution:

Discuss with the group action triggers (triggering events) already implemented in commercial products, e.g., in mobile phones, such as physical buttons, touch screen, fingerprint scanner, voice control, light sensors, etc.). Which Photon built-in sensors could be used to achieve the same/similar effects?