Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | Antweight BattleBot Champion Destroyer |
Aarav Singh Hrishi Kini Neel Acharya |
Chi Zhang | other2.pdf other3.pdf other4.pdf |
|
| # Antweight BattleBot Champion Destroyer ### Team Members: - Hrishi Kini (hkini2) - Aarav Singh (aaravs2) - Neel Acharya (iaa6) ## Problem We will be designing and building a PC-controlled battlebot as per the instructions provided by Prof. Gruev. However, several constraints need to be met, which introduce challenges to the design process. These restrictions include: - The battlebot must weigh under 2 lbs. - Only 3D-printed parts made from PET, PETG, ABS, or PLA/PLA+ are allowed for the chassis and weapon. - The robot must be wirelessly controlled via a Bluetooth or WiFi-enabled microcontroller. - It must demonstrate visible mobility and have an indicator light showing when power is on, with an optional secondary light for the wireless connection. - The battery voltage must not exceed 16V, and the system must include a manual disconnect for safety. - If a pneumatic weapon is used, the pressure must remain under 250 psi, and the system must have an easily accessible bleed valve. It would also be heavier than a plastic option due to the need for a metal pressurized tank. - If a spinning weapon is employed, it must come to a complete stop within 60 seconds of power being disconnected. - A custom PCB must be implemented. We were motivated to choose this project as soon as it was pitched by Professor Gruev. All three of us thought it was an incredibly interesting concept that also allowed us to apply our engineering and design skills in a hands-on, competitive environment, while also challenging us to work within real-world constraints such as weight, materials, and safety regulations. ## Solution Adhering to the above restrictions, our proposed solution involves the development of a battlebot using an STM32 microcontroller paired with a WiFi module for wireless control from a laptop. The bot will utilize three motors: two for the drivetrain and one for the weapon, a horizontal spinning blade. ## Solution Components ### Subsystem 1: Chassis Design Choices The chassis will serve as the structural foundation for the battlebot, providing support for the motors, weapon, and electronic components. We will be 3D-printing the chassis to adhere to the weight restrictions while ensuring a sturdy structure. We have chosen to use **PETG** for the chassis due to its superior strength and durability compared to **PLA+**, which was our other shortlisted material. While PETG is slightly heavier, we believe that using a stronger material is the right choice for our 2-wheel drive design, where durability is crucial. If for cost/weight reasons **PLA+** seems like a better option in the future, we will make the transition to it. The chassis design will make sure to cover all electrical components to prevent any damage to them during the competition. To enhance both protection and offensive capabilities, we are incorporating **ramps** on the front and sides of the chassis. The widened base will shield the wheels from direct attacks, minimizing vulnerability to opponents aiming to disable our bot's mobility. The ramps will allow the bot to slide underneath opposing bots, lifting them slightly off the ground. This design will expose more of their undercarriage to our spinning blade, significantly increasing the damage potential. ### Subsystem 2: Mobility and Drivetrain **Purpose** Mobility is a key factor for success in the competition, allowing the bot to outmaneuver opponents and react quickly to control inputs. Our bot will feature a **2-wheel drive system**, with anti-friction pads at the front to facilitate smooth, agile turns. The system is designed to ensure that the bot can traverse the arena quickly and accurately. **List of components** - 2 strong brushless motors - 2 wheels will be 3D printed with hollow rims and fitted with rubber treads - 3D printed drivetrain ### Subsystem 3: Wireless Control **Purpose** The main purpose of the WiFi module attached to the microcontroller is to wirelessly communicate with the battlebot via our laptop. We plan to use a controller plugged into a laptop that transmits each joystick forward and backward to one motor each, thus controlling left and right movements when one is forward and the other is backward. **List of components** - WiFi module (more research on the specific chip is required, however, a couple of us have worked with WiFi modules before, so we will be choosing that over a Bluetooth module) - Laptop & Controller ### Subsystem 4: Weaponry **Purpose** To attack, disrupt, and disable other bots we will be competing against. We will use a 3rd motor to power a downward-leaning blade (3D Printed) aimed at the base of any opponent bot in an attempt to flip it over. We will design the blade to have prongs on the ends that can carry weight and do more damage. We will use a powerful motor with strong responsiveness to our controls. ### Subsystem 5: Power Our initial power source will be a **9V D-cell battery**, chosen for its balance between size and output. However, should performance demands require more power, we will upgrade to a **15V LiPo battery**, provided the weight limits allow it. ## Criterion For Success We will consider this project a success if: - We can establish wireless communication with the battlebot. - The battlebot demonstrates precise and responsive movement within the arena. - The spinning blade operates effectively. **Hopefully, we win!!** :) |
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