FTC 7314 build December 2013

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5-December

We completed the reassembly of the new simplified arm structure. As described earlier, the primary incentive was to allow the robot to dump blocks into the pendulum baskets on the opposite side from pick-up, thereby eliminating the need to turn the robot arount twice during each scoring cycle. In addition, by reducing the number of bushings involved in arm rotation by a factor of four, we significantly reduce frictional losses in the arm drive.

Using a modified shovel with a "roof", we domonstrated the ability in principle to score to the robot's rear.

Also demonstarted the ability to hang using the revised arm.

But we have no way of getting blocks into the shovel! That is a matter for our next meeting (one problem at a time).

Hanging Test
Over-the-head Scoring Test

7-December Downingtown Area Robotics FLL Qualifying Event

FTC 7314 roboteers volunteered for set-up and the event itself.

19-December

Shovel ramp/door test & block scoring

This meeting's work focused on collecting and scoring blocks. In considering how to load blocks into the shovel, a new concept was advanced being a thin, bottom-hinged ramp/door which, when down, would slip under blocks and, when closed, would load blocks on it into the shovel and keep them from falling out.

The concept was successfully prototypes and demonstrated. A couple issues, however: 1) it that it is easy to catch more than five (5) blocks and the opaque shovel roof make it impossible for the driver to see how many blocks are captured; and 2) the ramp/door can get wedged under the diagonal stop in the field corner.

For next meeting:

  1. We need to set up and mount the solenoid(s) which will power the ramp/door.
  2. The shovel needs a stop to keep the ramp/door from coming inside the shovel
  3. Where/how to put the hanging hooks on the arm/shovel assembly.
  4. Make a new door with a real hinge (not duct tape)
  5. bend up door corners to: avoid slipping under the corner diagonal stop; and reduce the prospect of capturing more than 5 blocks

21-December

Last meeting of 2013!