This week our team has completed our entire Slotbot, which consists of both the Top Bot as well as the Ram Rod modules.
 |
| Completed Slotbot |
The ram rod module is nearly the same as when we completed it for our Most Critical Module assesment milestone. However, there are a quite a few improvements on the module that have really increased the defensive aspects of the module as well as the efficiency of scoring. Our team was testing the working module in the actual arena, and noticed several areas that could be improved. One major improvement was welding plates to the front face of the actual ramming component of the module, creating a robust defensive barrier. This added strong protection, as well as helped funnel balls falling from our ramp into the slot opening. Another addition was a metal grate which prevents balls from getting stuck inside our module while falling into our slot opening. Once we felt everything was properly aligned and functioning smoothly, we sandblasted all of our metal parts to create a sleek, uniform look.
As for the Top Bot module, we have successfully created a car-like robot which is propelled by two large rear wheels. The idea behind this module is to collect balls from the top of the arena and drop them into our slot. The Top Bot is both robust as well as versatile. It is has a solid construction consisting of a machined aluminum base and wheels, and is encased tightly in a solid acrilyic plate, which not only protects the motors and wiring, but creates a cool transparent effect of being able to look into the working inner components of the bot. The hoops in the front of the module allow us to collect balls, and the beads prevent balls from getting stuck (and will be painted black). The bot is strong, capable of moving across the entire table surface without falling in the slot, and is relatively easy to maneuver and control.
 |
| Improved ramming component |
 |
| Testing Ram Rod module in arena |
