Robot Expo Puts Theory into Motion

Applying theoretical principles and a good dose of imagination, physics students at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) will be bringing scientific concepts to life at the third annual Robot Expo on Friday, Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event welcomes physics enthusiasts and the public to join students in putting logic and reason to the test.Demonstrating the practical application of physics, the Robot Expo showcases original robots constructed by teams of physics and computer science students, who are tasked with the assignment of designing and programming a micro-system.Among the robots being unveiled at this year’s expo is PatrolBot, which detects motion and chases away intruders, and the ToroBot, which can, like a bull, recognize and chase after specific colors.Physics demonstrations and interactive activity stations, hosted by the Society of Physics Students, will also be offered at the event.    What: Third Annual Robot Expo hosted by the CSUSM Physics Department    When: Friday, Dec. 16, 2011 – 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.    Where: M. Gordon Clarke Field House, corner of Campus Way and Campus View    Cal State San Marcos, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos    Parking: Parking fees range from $3 to $9 depending upon length of stayAbout California State University San MarcosCalifornia State University San Marcos combines the ambiance of a mid-sized, personal, modern campus with the unequaled value of the California State University. Since its founding in 1989, the campus has distinguished itself. Students benefit from the latest facilities and equipment, a superb faculty that enjoys teaching, and a rigorous academic program that prepares students for a successful life in and out of the workplace. A recent survey reported that our annual spending in the region was $161 million, generating a total impact of $307 million on the regional economy. 85 percent of CSUSM’s alumni stay in the region. CSU San Marcos is located on a 304-acre hillside overlooking the city of San Marcos. It is 15 miles east of the ocean; just 30 miles north of downtown San Diego.