Maker Robotic Arm

Course Overview

Build your own six-joint robotic arm from modular, 3D-printed components. This hands-on course introduces students to real mechanical engineering, servo motors, and basic programming through a guided assembly project. Students use an ESP32-powered brain module with a touchscreen to control their arm, record movements, and play them back automatically.

What You’ll Build

A fully functional robotic arm made from standardized, interchangeable modules:

• Rotary Base — 360-degree base rotation using a gear-driven platform
• 3 Joint Modules — Shoulder, elbow, and wrist movement using belt-driven joints
• Wrist Rotation — A small rotary module for spinning the end effector
• Claw / Gripper — A servo-driven gripper that opens and closes to grab objects

All parts are 3D-printed and connect with a universal mounting pattern — the same modules can be reused in future Maker projects.

What You’ll Learn

• Mechanical Assembly — Put together joints, gears, and belt-driven systems step by step
• Servo Motors — Understand how servos and stepper motors create controlled movement
• Touchscreen Control — Use the brain module’s touchscreen to operate the arm
• Motion Recording — Record arm movements and play them back automatically
• Teleoperation — Control the full-size arm using a small teaching arm

Course Structure

This is a 10-week session-based course:

1. What is a Robotic Arm? — Parts overview and introduction to the modular system
2. Base Assembly — Build the rotary base and learn about gear reduction
3. First Joint (Shoulder) — Assemble the first belt-driven joint module
4. Elbow & Wrist Joints — Add the remaining arm segments
5. Claw & Wrist Rotation — Build the gripper and rotary module
6. Wiring & Electronics — Connect servos to the motor controller module
7. Brain Module & Touchscreen — Set up the ESP32 controller and interface
8. Teleoperation Mode — Control your arm with the teaching arm
9. Motion Recording & Playback — Record and automate arm sequences
10. Demo Day — Showcase your arm performing a pick-and-place challenge

Prerequisites

• Age: Grades 4-6 (ages 9-12)
• Experience: No prior experience required
• Interest: Curious about building and robotics