Modular system diagrams for robotics and their use in the MICA Project

Abstract

In this thesis, I propose a set of general rules for creating self-consistent System Diagrams across multiple domains. A System Diagram Prototype is then constructed and proposed for the specific use of diagramming robots. This robotic prototype is useful for teaching robotics and several examples of how robots can be diagrammed are given. The robotic prototype is then applied to creating sensors and generator modules in the MICA Project. The MICA (Measurement, Instrumentation, Control, and Analysis) Project is an ongoing research effort in MIT's BioInstrumentation Laboratory that aims to bring powerful, simple-to-use, wireless sensors and generators into the world of education. As education gets augmented by software-based teaching, it is essential that hardware continues and expands into educational demonstrations and lessons. A core tenet of the MICA project is that students learn best through hands-on, measurement-driven education. Real-life experiments can provide a deeper intuition and a stronger motivation, than purely abstract lessons. By having a set of easy-to-use sensors and generators, individual students can quickly create an experiment, measure the results, and then analyze the results. When coupling this individualized hardware approach with software teaching methods, a new method for teaching students of all ages and backgrounds is possible, one which embodies the MIT motto, mens et manus, mind and hand.