Topics

1

Real Robotics Discussion / Starting a Robotics parts Company

« on: October 04, 2009, 03:08:31 PM »

Considering doing something like this.

Would be a nonprofit made to help beginners get into the robotic combat sport by providing low cost electronics, motors, wheels, etc. Also would hold a yearly event in the northeast for ants, beetles, and hobbyweights. Comments, ideas, etc, are appreciated.

Not sure about how easy it is to get a non profit, so if I do it, I might not make it a nonprofit, not to say I'd be doing it to try to make money - that certainly isn't what it's about.

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Off-Topic Discussion / My new car

« on: September 15, 2009, 09:21:24 PM »

It's a 2001 BMW 330ci. It's an amazing car - have to keep an eye on the speedometer at ALL times; it's an extremely smooth ride.

3

Real Robotics Discussion / Build Your Own Electronics - Save $$$

« on: September 15, 2009, 09:06:35 PM »

WARNING: Do not use custom electronics on robots with weapons or heavier than 1 pound. Safety is most important.

If you have experience building electronics, here are some schematics and useful resources for building your own robot electronics. You can likely make your own electronics for only a couple of dollars, verses the hundreds of dollars you may spend at the RobotMarketPlace/BaneBots/etc

Simple RC Switch
http://www.tuug.fi/~isaarine/electronics/rc-switch/

Speed Controllers
http://homepages.which.net/~paul.hills/SpeedControl/SpeedControllersBody.html

Mini Low Rate Motor Controller
http://www.math.niu.edu/~behr/RC/KW/kw-low-article.txt
http://www.math.niu.edu/~behr/RC/KW/kw-high-parts.html
PCB Layout: http://www.math.niu.edu/~behr/RC/KW/kw-high-pcb.pdf

Digital Speed Controller Schematics
http://www.math.niu.edu/~behr/RC/AP/ap-digital.pdf

Components: http://www.digikey.com/

4

Robots Showcase / Fiasco

« on: September 11, 2009, 08:55:09 AM »

Fiasco
Weight: 12 lbs
http://www.buildersdb.com/botpics/7716.jpg

Entering a competition with it next month. Hopefully it'll do well. Was just testing it, blew out one of the drive motors. Better stock up on them.

5

Real Robotics Discussion / Heavyweight Robot (220 lbs)

« on: June 05, 2009, 08:01:20 AM »

Going to build a heavyweight. What do you think would be good for a frame? 1/2" square tube steel? 1" square tube steel.... 2" square tube? I plan to use 3/8" steel as a wedge/rammer in the front. Is that enough?

What about size? Right now it will be about 8" tall, 48" long, 35" wide. 4 wheels 10.0" each (1" ground clearance).

As far as a drive system, I plan to use sprockets to gear down 4x NPC-2446 (About 3 hp total). This thing would be very fast, since these motors won't be geared down much (Pretty much as little as possible). I am actually a bit concerned that this is not enough power in the drivetrain. I've considered 4 of the NPC-1200... even 2 of the Black Maxs. The S28-150 is also something I'm considering.

As far as voltage, I've been thinking 36V, NiMh.

Appreciate any feedback.

Thanks!

6

Real Robotics Discussion / Antweight Building Guide

« on: March 11, 2009, 11:38:05 PM »

First off, here are some proven weapons/designs. In order of easiest to build, to hardest.

Weapon System

Pusher (Perfect for beginners)
Wedge (Perfect for beginners)
Blade (Ok for talented beginners)
Undercutter (Not recommended unless you have experience)
Drum (Difficult)
Eggbeater (Very Difficult)

That's pretty much it. You're taking a chance with anything else. Not to say it can't be done, but you better have the experience before you try to pull it off.

Weapon Motors

Pusher: N/A
Wedge: N/A
Blade: Brushed, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1 Gearing - Brushless: Direct Drive, 2:1, 3:1
Undercutter: Brushless: Direct Drive, 2:1, 3:1
Drum: Brushless: Direct Drive, 2:1
Eggbeater: Brushless: 1:1, 2:1

Drive Motors
Pusher: Banebots 16mm 38:1
Wedge: Banebots 16mm 11:1, 24:1, Maxon 17:1
Blade: Banebots 16mm 24:1, Maxon 17:1
Undercutter: Banebots 16mm 11:1, 24:1, Maxon 17:1
Drum: Banebots 16mm 11:1, 24:1, Maxon 17:1
Eggbeater: Banebots 16mm 24:1, Maxon 17:1

Wheel Hubs: In order from best to worst
Dave's Hubs
Banebots Hubs
Prop Adapter
Mini Aluminum Hub

Wheels: In order from best to worst
LiteFlites: Non Lectra
Banebots

Things Not to Use/Do
Copal Motors
Plastic Wheels such as Tamiya 70145, 70111
Plastic Gearboxes
Tank Treads such as 70108
Single Set Screws on Weapons
Set Screws without thread lock
6v or less batteries

Quality Armor Materials
Delrin Plastic
UHMW Polyethylene
Garolite CE, G11
ABS Plastic
Polycarbonate Lexan
Carbon Fiber
7075 Aluminum

Quality Weapon Materials
S7 Steel
Titanium

Safety
Even at home, use proper power on/off procedures. You should still use weapon locks, and sharp edge covers.
Do not power up the robot around other people, even if you are sure the weapon is off. The robot could be damaged, you could get interference, or many other factors.
Do not stay in the same room as the robot while testing. If one thing goes wrong, you could get seriously injured.

Resources
http://www.robotmarketplace.com
http://www.banebots.com
http://www.mcmaster.com
http://www.sdp-si.com
http://www.hobby-lobby.com
http://www.towerhobbies.com
http://www.buildersdb.com
http://www.teamwhyachi.com

Have questions? I'd be happy to help.