New Resources for REV Robotics Classrooms and FTC Teams

Mechanical Foundations with REV DUO

REV Duo is the best-in-class robotics system for teaching students how to build and engineer robots in high school classrooms and robotics competitions. We are happy to share that classrooms, clubs and robotics teams that use the versatile and robust REV DUO system can now leverage their robotics kits to complete our Mechanical Foundations curriculum.

Mechanical Foundations provides participants with knowledge and hands-on experiences with a variety of tools and hardware components. By understanding the foundational mechanical principles that underpin robotics, participants develop the ability to design, construct, and maintain these systems with increased confidence and efficacy. The course covers topics such as structure, power transmission, motion, and mechanisms using hands-on activities with REV DUO kits. Learn More >

As part of the SMART Robotics Technician Program, Mechanical Foundations is aligned to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that robotics technicians need to be successful. The SMART Robotics Technician Program is endorsed by the ARM Institute. Mechanical Foundations is made up of 3 units:

• Unit 1: Strength, Stability, and Balance
• Unit 2: Motors, Transmissions, and Mechanical Advantage
• Unit 3: Drivetrains
  

Each unit contains an introduction video that connects the participant to a real-world application, media-driven instructional content, evidence uploads, assessments, and a culminating project that asks students to apply what they’ve learned.

But wait, there's more! SMART Credentials through FIRST

Like students who participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), students who participate in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) can also now upload evidence of their experience to earn credentials from the SMART Robotics Technician Program. Learn More >

There are 5 SMART Robotics Technician Micro-Certifications available that focus on different foundational competencies. Participants can opt to complete any number of them, based on their roles within their robotics team.

1. Mechanical Foundations (through FRC and FTC)
   
2. Fabrication Foundations (through FRC and FTC)
   
3. Electrical Foundations (through FRC and FTC)
   
4. Software Foundations (through FRC and FTC)
   
5. Robotics Integration (through FRC and FTC)

SMART micro-certification courses focus on the Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes (KSA) that are needed for Robotics Technicians in the Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics industries. The KSA were identified through research which involved interviewing and observing Robotics Technicians in the industry. The SMART materials are continually improved and updated to keep up with the pace of the field.