DIY Network

All-Terrain Robots -- Design and Construction, Part 4 From "Robot Rivals" episode DROB-108

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One of the methods used on Robot Rivals to control the motion and speed of robots -- a radio transmitter like those used for radio-control model-planes, cars etc. The other means of controlling robits is an IFI control system. Used in conjunction with a laptop PC, specific controls and commands can be encoded and sent to the robot. The electronics housing is added to the upper portion of Purdue's robot. Purdue tests their robot for stability. Frame-assembly continues on Utah's robot. Leg-pieces and drive assemblies are laid out for assembly. Buzz works on Utah's motor assembly. As the clock runs out, Utah works to incorporate the motors into their robot.

As the clock begins to run out, both teams must finalize their robots and add any finishing touches. After time runs out, the competition will soon follow.

Activity Log: Purdue (Hours 7 - 8)

• Purdue decides to mount the electronics on top of the robot and deal with issues of balance rather than placing the electronics low in the rear where they would be susceptible to water hazards.
  
  
  
  
• They accidentally cross a few wires connecting the controllers to each of the motors. Moreover, they do not first disconnect the power supplies before assembling the electronics. Luckily, Purdue does not lose much time, because plenty of replacement parts are ready in the Robot Rivals lab.
  
  
  
  
• Looking for ways to make their top-heavy robot more stable, Purdue mounts a wide, fanning tail of sheet and extruded aluminum onto the back and a pair of skids made of PVC pipe onto the sides. The clawing machine is complete.

Activity Log: University of Utah (Hours 7 - 8)

• Ben works on the linkage for the leg with a fixed point and a pivot point that will create a smooth elliptical pattern of motion.
  
  
  
  
• Utah miscalculates and drills the leg holes in the wrong place. Ben and Amji bore holes in the correct location, while Dan begins assembly of the frame with an adjustable rack. The rack will hold the pins that anchor the top part of the leg and allow it to pivot.
  
  
  
  
• In the final hour, Dan takes a lead role to finish their robot. They attach the legs, install the chain, and wire the electronics. With no time for testing, their six-legged walker is up and standing in time for competition.

RESOURCES :
Robot Builder's Bonanza
Model: 0071362967
Author: Gordon McComb

Build Your Own Robot!
Model: 1568811020
Author: Karl Lunt

Robots, Androids and Animatrons : 12 Incredible Projects You Can Build
Model: 0070328048
Author: John Iovine

Personal Robotics : Real Robots to Construct, Program, and Explore the World
Model: 156881089X
Author: Richard Raucci

Mobile Robots : Inspiration to Implementation
Model: 1568810970
Author: Joseph L. Jones, et al