The Experience of using Micromouse and Robot Ping Pong for Teaching Mechatronics

Micromouse and robotic ping pong have been interesting mechatronic applications for the past decade or more. Recently a number of educational institutions around the world have started using these two ‘fun’ robotic ideas as a basis for a more structured approach to robotic engineering education. At City Polytechnic of Hong Kong regular project work using micromouse has been going on for a number of years. More recently robot ping pong has been introduced. This paper also looks at the problems and opportunities involved in making micromouse a part of the curriculum. Finally, this paper addresses the specific needs of Hong Kong and southern Chinese industry and relates the learning experience of those students taking part in robotic projects to the needs of that industry.