Gearbotics Gears by Learning Resources Instructions

Build a robot that makes all kinds of noise with Robot Gears set. Start with the motor, add some gears, a few wheels, a couple of arms and a head - then "everyone get out of the way!" You are in control - just press the buttons to make your robot move forward, backward and make noise.

The following instructions will help you get started. Model 1 is the easiest to build and Model 4 is for advanced builders. Then, try creating your own robot! There is no "wrong" way to create with gears. Just remember, when in doubt, try it out!

Before you begin, make sure you have 4 fresh "AA" batteries in the motor's hand control.

CAUTION:

• Use only 4 "AA" batteries.
• To remove batteries, slide battery cover off hand-control (see arrow on button on hand control). Remove old batteries and replace with new batteries. Be sure to insert batteries correctly according to (+) and (-) symbols on battery compartment.
• Be sure to insert batteries correctly (with adult supervision) and always follow the toy and battery manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not mix old and new batteries.
• Do not mix alkaline, standard (carbon-zinc), or rechargeable (nickel-cadmium) batteries.
• Non-rechargeable batteries are not to be recharged.
• Rechargeable batteries are to be removed from the toy before being charged.
• Rechargeable batteries are only to be charged under adult supervision.
• Only batteries of the same or equivalent type as recommended are to be used.
• The supply terminals are not to be short-circuited.
• Always remove weak or dead batteries from the product.
• Remove batteries if product will be stored for an extended period of time.
• Check cord frequently and do not use if wire is damaged or exposed.
• Please retain these instructions for future reference.

BUILDING TIPS:

• As you build, test the motor every so often to make sure the gears are moving, and to make sure you have not over loaded it with too many gears. The motor will only power a limited number of gears, depending on the size of the gears you use. If the gears are turning very, very slowly, remove some of the gears.
• When attaching the Crown Gear, first connect an axle with a gear on 1 side to the motor, then place the crown gear connected to a red pillar with peg on top (as shown here). If you put a gear on both sides of the axle, the gears will not turn.
• Your Robot will roll best if the gears that touch the floor are moving in the same direction. Test this by placing it on the floor, turning on the motor and looking at the direction the gears are turning (see sketch).