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Developed and Distributed by
Applied Technologies
PO Box 1419 - Calhoun, Georgia   1-800-334-4943

 

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Overview:
The MERk is a custom K'Nex set that is available only from Applied Technologies.  It is based on the award winning Techno-K'Nex computer control modeling system used in schools throughout the world (see below).  Included in the kit are all the curriculum support materials normally included with Techno-K'Nex, plus a set of special assembly instructions designed for classroom use.  The kit is not the standard Techno-K'Nex set however.  It includes many extra pieces including special wheels and an assortment of gears.  Also included in the set is a wireless color camera that comes equipped with an independent switchable battery pack and custom mount for use with K'Nex.  The camera is equipped with a receiver and a USB cable for computer interface, and a composite cable for adaptation to a TV/VCR.

Specifications:

Controller and Software
  • Inputs - 4
  • Outputs - 4
  • Internal program storage positions - 6, Procedures can be downloaded from the computer to the controller. This allows a controller to serve more than one lab group at a time. Once procedures are downloaded, they are stored there indefinitely for continued execution by the model. The computer is no longer needed to operate the model so students can operate mobile models without a wired connection.
  • Power supply - 12 VDC internal or external
  • Communications - USB or RF (radio frequency).  Units are capable of communicating with the base unit and with each other without connecting cabling. 
  • Programming - Proprietary GUI "drag and drop" or Visual Basic
  • Operating System: Windows and Mac platforms.
  • Software licensing: Site licenses are NOT required for our Computer Control System. You may load the Software onto multiple machines so that many groups of students can work simultaneously with one package.  That means an entire class can simultaneously write programs that can then be downloaded wirelessly to one or more rovers.
  • No prior computer or programming experience necessary; icon-based Software utilizes symbols that are fun and easy to understand
  • Structured programming concepts include: direct control from the computer; simple, intermediate and advanced procedures; recursion; feedback control operation; open and closed loop control; collaborative programming where interfaces command each other based on sensor feedback and more.
  • Ability to troubleshoot programming errors by running procedures in debugging mode.
  • Software stores up to 100 projects in each student's file, each with up to 100 commands and procedures
  • Detailed help screens enhance independent learning and problem solving.
  • Operates on multiple platforms including: Windows 3.11 through 2000; Mac OS 7.0 through OSX.  PC and Mac Software included in every set.

Modeling System

  • Controller box - 1
  • 1,500 +/- K'Nex rods and connectors, wheels, gears, etc.
  • Servo Motors - 4
  • Rotation Sensor - 1
  • Touch Sensor - 1
  • Light Sensor - 1
  • Bi-Polar (red/green) LED output
  • K'NEXprint Building Cards for 8 additional computerized models
  • Activity Cards for each programming mode
  • Reference Cards for each programming mode
  • Detailed Educator Guides correlate directly to the activities for each of the TechnoK'NEX Software modes; provide detailed information to assist with delivery, evaluation and assessment of concepts and objectives presented in Activity Cards
  • Software Manual
  • Resource Guide
  • Set design allows multiple teams to build and work with the models simultaneously
  • Optimum tool to teach applied math, science, and technology.  Allows hands-on exploration, discovery and application in a real-world learning environment.

Wireless Camera

  • Wireless lightweight color camera with 2.4-GHz transmitter
  • Receiver with USB and composite video output
  • 12 VDC battery pack
  • Transmission distance up to 100'
  • Sensing area: 1/3" CMOS
  • Focal length: 3.0mm +/-5%
  • Back focal length:5.84mm +/-5%
  • F no.: 2.0
  • Focus extent: 20cm to infinite
  • Iris: Fixed
  • Operating Temperature -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to +50°C)
  • Humidity Limits 0 - 95% Humidity
  • Field angle (Diagonal): 60 deg.
  • Works right out of the box
  • No need to add cards to your computer!
  • Connects to your computer's USB port using the PC Video/USB Adapter
  • Sets up in minutes (hassle-free)
  • Hands-free operation
  • 2.4GHz transmitter (sharp & clear)

    When you purchase the XRay Vision Internet Kit you are getting 2 components. First, you will get the PC Video/USB Adapter which simply plugs into your PC's USB port. This device converts the video from the cameras into a digital format for your computer. This part can be used with different software including XRay Vision, MultiView and WebView. Second, you will be given a FREE Download of the XRay Vision Software, which will allow you to view your camera(s) on your PC!

 

Additional Curriculum Materials
Curriculum Components & Benefits
Included with the MERk package is a highly motivating series of 9-16 project-based learning units. The design simulates the development of products in a real-world environment, focusing on the technology process-determining a need then developing and designing a technological product or system that solves the need.

  • Building Cards for 8 large, dynamic, educational models

  • Comprehensive curriculum is color-coded for ease of use with various Software modes

  • Extensive, interdisciplinary Activity Cards lead students through the the four cumulative levels of TechnoK'NEX Software

  • Activity Cards offer heavy concentration on journal writing, presentation skills, marketing and cooperative learning in conjunction with computer-control

  • Reference Cards serve as a quick tutorial and ongoing resource for the 4 Software modes, K'NEX models & electronic components

  • Detailed Educator Guides correlate directly to the activities for each of the TechnoK'NEX Software modes; provide detailed information to assist with delivery, evaluation and assessment of concepts and objectives presented in Activity Cards

  • Software Manual explains features and benefits of Software, electronic components & Interface

  • Handy Resource Guide organizes the TechnoK'NEX System for use in the classroom

  • Correlations with National Technology and Science Education Standards available

 

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MERk, assembled and ready to go.  Click to enlarge picture.






 

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Leonardo Controller mounted to MERk







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Standard Techno-K'Nex components

 







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Wireless Color Camera

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USB Interface