Robotics: Build Your Own Animatronic Eye

Robotics Lab Series

From Code to Creation: An Introduction to Applied Mechatronics

Level up your technical skill development with this unique, hands-on workshop where you will build a functional animatronic eye. This project serves as a perfect, low-barrier entry point into the interconnected worlds of robotics, microcontrollers, and motion control.

Key Skill Development Areas:

Microcontroller Basics: Gain practical experience with the Arduino platform, the industry-standard tool for rapid prototyping and connecting code to the physical world. You will learn how microcontrollers function as the "brain" of any smart device.

Applied Coding (C++): Learn the core concepts of Arduino's C++ syntax to command specific actions, focusing on writing clean and effective code to control movement and timing.

Servo Motor Control: Master the fundamentals of utilizing servo motors for precise, repeatable angular movement. This skill is critical for any project involving robotics, linkages, or precise positioning.

3D Printing Integration: Understand how to prepare and integrate a custom-designed, 3D-printed component (the eye) with electronic and mechanical parts, bridging the gap between digital design and physical construction.

Future Research and Application:

The principles learned here directly support future research and academic projects, including:

Robotics: Creating sophisticated end-effectors, joints, or sensor-sweeping mechanisms.

Kinematics: Experimenting with motion pathways and simulating complex mechanical movements.

Prototyping: Rapidly creating proof-of-concept mechanical interfaces for larger projects in engineering or computer vision.

Participants will leave the workshop with a solid understanding of a complete electromechanical system, and a take-home kit consisting of your personal 3D-printed eye and servo motor to continue your skill development journey.

Complete List of UCR Library Events - All UCR community members are welcome to attend. Make sure to register with your UCR email. Zoom link will be emailed to registered participants. Participants are expected to follow and uphold UC Riverside's Principles of Community.