Goofy Thymio (Backwards Control with VPL3)

User solution for: Goofy Thymio (Lesson Plans)

Mind Mission Card 58

Submitted by: Jeremy (Teacher)

Solution video:

Programming Skills: 2 - VPL3 (block)

Lesson description:

This lesson combines robotics, control, and programming:

Create a custom control program that does the opposite of Thymio’s normal controls.
Use VPL3 to change how Thymio responds to the remote.
Drive Thymio around a track using your “goofy” controls.
Advanced: Improve your control program to navigate the track faster and more accurately.
Advanced: Minimize penalties by keeping Thymio on the track.

Solution Notes:

Goofy Thymio Lesson Key Concepts

Program Thymio with “goofy” controls and explore how robotics and programming can change how a robot behaves! This lesson focuses on control, logic, and problem-solving using Thymio and VPL3:

Create a custom control system that reverses or changes Thymio’s normal movement.
Use VPL3 to control how Thymio responds to the remote.
Test your program by driving Thymio around a track.
Advanced: Improve your program to move faster and more accurately.
Advanced: Reduce penalties by keeping Thymio on the track.

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, students will:

Create a VPL3 program with reversed or altered controls.
Build a track using tape.
Drive Thymio around the track using their custom controls.
Measure time and add penalties for mistakes.

By the end of this lesson, students will understand how changing control logic affects movement and performance.

Important Notes:

Control can feel confusing at first since the movements are reversed. Take your time to practice and adjust your program.

Tips for this Lesson:

Start slow to get used to the new controls.
Practice turning and stopping before doing full runs.
Adjust speeds in your program for better control.
Stay focused to avoid penalties.

Products/Materials

The following products and resources can be used in this lesson:

Thymio II Robot

Remote Control

Stopwatch

Tape (for track)

VPL3 (Thymio Suite)

FUN FACT!

Did you know that changing control systems is used in real robotics training? Engineers often test robots with reversed or unusual controls to improve precision and adaptability!