stair climbing vex robot by myth busters

[foobert]

here's a new robot magazine (http://www.botmag.com/) with an article by grant imahara of myth busters about the construction of a vex version of the irobot packbot.

[Stu Bloom]

Thanks for the tip foo (whoever you are ...). This looks like a GREAT resource. I have already forwarded the link to several robot fanatics I know ...

[artdutra04]

The best part is that with the VEX system, modifications can be completed easily, and numerous versions can be quickly tested until the best configuration is found. The pieces are well designed and their ease of use promotes creativity in the problem solving process. We’ve found the system to be highly adaptable and accessible for the robotics enthusiast from beginners to advanced builders and look forward to seeing what the rest of you can do with this versatile system.
Wow, this is cool! http://www.simtropolis.com/idealbb/images/smilies/10.gif Jamie and Grant both gave the Vex kit high reviews, except for the tank treads, which they said didn't have enough traction. My only question left is: will they ever use Vex on their show now? From their article, they seem to have been very impressed by it. Here are a few pictures from their article:

Here is a close up of of one of their eariler versions of you're interested, their version of the PackBot:

http://www.botmag.com/images/articles/vex_5.jpg

Here is a shot of their gearing for the pivot point and one of the Vex encoders.
http://www.botmag.com/images/articles/vex_19.jpg

And here is an animated picture of the robot in action:
http://www.botmag.com/images/articles/vex_5.gif

If you haven't seen, there are two videos of their amazing Vex robot:
» Day One test (http://www.botmag.com/video/day_one.wmv)
» Project Overview (http://www.botmag.com/video/project_overview.wmv)

[sanddrag]

Danget stop posting these things! Now I really really really want one.

Did anyone take a count on How many accessory kits you'd have to buy to make that thing to reel in a total cost?

Also, I never knew Vex could be so big. Those tracks and that robot are a pretty good size.

[Lil' Lavery]

that is possibly even cooler than 'Betsy'! (VEX team 18's bot). Sweet