Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi, I have two questions on my science project that I am doing for the line following robot car. First question is: I have trouble with one of my IR Sensors. When I programmed my robot, one of the wheels didn't spin, and at one point I put it in sunlight and it began to work like it was supposed to, but when I put it on white paper, that wheel doesn't move at all. Is it broken? Second question: it says if I want my car to slow down, I need to get a three battery pack that is included in my kit, but I don't see it. Do I need to go get my own? My project is due Jan 5th and it would be great to hear from you as soon as possible. Thanks

Hi Catherinewand21,

If one of your sensors does not appear to be working, you should double and triple-check your wiring for that sensor. Many times people do not think a part is working, but it turns out they just have one wire misplaced. You can also try switching the left and right sensors on your robot. If the sensor that appeared "broken" suddenly works when you switch them, and the sensor that was "working" stops working, then you know that you have a wiring problem and the sensor is not broken. Finally, the sensor needs to be very close to the paper to work, so make sure it is not too far from the paper.

As for the 3xAA battery pack - that should have been included if you purchased the BlueBot kit from Science Buddies. Email us at [email protected] with your order number and we will send you a replacement. I'm not sure if it will be too late if your project is due tomorrow, however. I'm sorry that you didn't get a response sooner, but many of our experts do not check the forums over holiday weekends.

Thanks,

Ben