| Water-Transporting Robot - Design and Construction, Part 4 |
From "Robot Rivals"
episode DROB-113 |
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Activity Log: Virginia Tech (Hours 7 - 8)
Ian attaches a segment of a snorkel to the back of the chassis, reinforcing its downward curvature with two springs (figure A). Using zip ties, Virginia Tech will route the pool hose over this piece so that the mouth of the hose is positioned directly above the bucket.
A test of the main drive system proves successful.
Virginia Tech removes the snorkel and the end of the hose from the back of the robot. The high-friction ribbed lining of the hose and its tendency to sag under the weight of water is causing serious flow problems. They quickly replace it with a length of PVC pipe (figure B), which works perfectly in testing.
Activity Log: Southern Utah (Hours 7 - 8)
David fits two hoses instead of one through the lid of the bucket. Meanwhile, Jared strips the buoyant outer shell and foam lining off the bucket (figure C). These modifications will allow for significantly faster water collection.
Southern Utah installs their "secret weapon," a check valve on the inside of the lid (figure D). This one-way flap opens up in response to outside pressure and closes in response to internal pressure. This property allows water to spill into the bucket while forcing it out through the two hoses.
With the bucket installed and the hose positioned correctly, Southern Utah's robot passes its first test run. They are ready 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
Sensors for Mobile Robots : Theory and Application
Model: 1568810482
Author: H.R. Everett
Special Thanks for Robot Rivals 100 series
The Robot Store
provided various robotic components for Robot Rivals.
www.robotstore.com
IFI Robotics
makers of the "Isaac 32" control system.
www.ifirobotics.com
NPC Robotics
provided wheels and motors for Robot Rivals.
www.npcrobotics.com
Robotic Power Solutions
provided battery packs.
www.battlepack.com
Parallax Inc.
Provided microprocessors, on-board robotic cameras, autonoumous programming.
www.parallaxinc.com
Hobbico
provided Futaba control system.
www.hobbico.com
Alloy Frame Systems
provided extruded-aluminum frame materials.
www.alloyframesystems.com
SMC Corporation of America
provided pneumatic systems.
www.smcusa.com
Team Delta
provided wiring kits and electrical wiring.
www.teamdelta.com
Radio Shack
provided component cabinets.
www.radioshack.com
Campbell Hausfeld Tools
provided pneumatic tools and compressor used on Robot Rivals.
www.campbellhausfeld.com
Delta Machinery
provided tools used on Robot Rivals.
www.deltawoodworking.com
Porter Cable
provided tools used on Robot Rivals.
www.porter-cable.com
Waterloo Industries
provided tool chests used on Robot Rivals.
www.waterlooindustries.com
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