Mockup

Below are sketches and SolidWorks models for potential ideas for the robot. These were instrumental in helping figure out potential geometric, budget, or logical flaws with our designs. Additionally, as more time was spent working on these, less time would need to be spent fixing errors on the physical robot down the line. As reflected in our design schedule, a large amount of time was spent in this planning phase, and it really paid off. See below for full information on the mockups.

 Sketch Used for Mockup

  • This image contains the original orthographic projection drawing of the design idea. The design features an omnidirectional drivetrain on a rectangular chassis with four equal size cuts taken out for the wheels. Additionally, it contained a number of intricate mechanisms with the purpose of completing the tasks. Although this design did not stay all the way through to the final design, it provided an excellent starting point for our team to move forward into the mockup stage of brainstorming.
Design A

Preliminary Hand-Drawn Orthographic Projections of Robot

 

SolidWorks Model of Initial Mockup

  • The images below highlight the key features of our SolidWorks model, including chassis/drivetrain, dumbbell and switch arms, and fuel delivery button mechanism. These images match those in the orthographic projections above. Additionally, images of this mockup in physical form can be found a little further down the page.

 

Images of Physical Mockup

  • The images below give images of the physical mockup created by the team. This represents a to-scale model of what we thought we were going to use at this moment in time. At this point in time, the team noticed a few key design issues. First, a three motor drivetrain design was very expensive, as it required a gear box or beveled gears. Also, this was very difficult to pull off. Additionally, a linear actuation system was involved, which was not plausible with the $160 budget. These issues are discussed in greater detail in the final report. In the mean time, enjoy cardboard, paper, and tape!!!!