Thames & Kosmos Geckobot
- Experiments: 7
- Piece Count: 176
- Manual Pages: 24
- Batteries Required: AAA (2)
This astonishing wall-climbing robot has a motorized air suction system that enables it to walk vertically up and down perfectly smooth surfaces, like glass, plastic, whiteboards, and glossy laminates. The battery-powered motor drives an innovative gear system that produces a rotating motion making the legs move back and forth and up and down, mimicking a real gecko - so two of the feet are touching the wall while the other two feet are lifted off of the wall, in an alternating motion. At the same time, the gear system drives an air pump that creates a vacuum at the two feet touching the wall while blowing air outward at the other two feet. In this way, two of the feet are always holding the model to the wall, while the other two feet are pushing off and stepping forward.
You can build six other models and conduct experiments with suction to learn about air pressure and the mechanical physics of this unique device. Build models of an industrial robotic arm with a vacuum suction cup gripper, crawling inch worm, smartphone holder, suction tow truck and car, ellipsograph, and suction gun.
A 24-page, full-color manual guides you through model building with step-by-step illustrated instructions and provides scientific information and explanations.
STEM Exploration:
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Biology: The Geckobot mimics a gecko's climbing ability. The included manual explains how real geckos use microscopic structures on their feet to stick to surfaces. This sparks curiosity about the natural world and biomimicry in engineering.
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Physics: Building and experimenting with the Geckobot teaches concepts like mechanics, motion, and forces. Kids see how gears create movement and how suction can be used for gripping.
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Engineering: The entire process, from building different models to understanding the mechanics behind them, introduces core engineering principles. They learn about design, problem-solving, and how different parts work together in a system.
Beyond the Basics:
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Critical Thinking: The kit encourages kids to think critically as they build and experiment. They troubleshoot challenges, figure out how to optimize the robot's movement, and explore different functionalities of the included parts.
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Hands-on Learning: The Geckobot provides a practical and engaging way to learn. Building and interacting with the robots solidify concepts learned in the included manual.
Bonus Learning:
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The included manual has "Educational Value" and "Did You Know" sections. These sidebars provide interesting facts and connect the Geckobot's functions to real-world applications of science and engineering. For instance, they might learn about industrial robotic arms or the physics behind suction phone holders.
Ages: 8+ years
Awards
- 2016 ASTRA Best Toys for Kids (Constructive Play 8+ Years)
- The Toy Insider's 2016 STEM 10 List
- Purdue University's 2016 Engineering Gift Guide
Made in Taiwan
WARNING - Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc), or rechargeable (nickel-cadmium) batteries.
