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jwallace15 27-08-2012 10:33

Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
1 Attachment(s)
One thing that I love to do in my spare time is buy and assemble electrical kits, such as the picture displayed below. This particular kit is a 4-way stoplight. There is a swich in the lower left-hand corner, and an adjustable time delay is located to the right of the switch (separated by 3 resistors).
I have to ask - Do you have a fun hobby that you do in your spare time?

rsisk 27-08-2012 11:14

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
How is this topic possible? It would imply the existance of a life outside of robotics.

All kidding aside, I like to do volunteer work as technical director for a local community theater. Build sets, lights, sound, and special effects, especially when I can work a robot or two into the set. I used pneumatics for the first time on the set of Something's Afoot and now I am itching to use more of them on a set,molts of possibilities. I volunteer at an arena style theater, so having all three dimensions to work in is especially challenging and well
suited For remote controlled robotics.

jwallace15 27-08-2012 11:33

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Way to go! Including robotics into the theatrical world is great!

In fact, I recently purchased a green screen for video editing. I understand that video editing and theatrics are two different things, but they are related in the entertainment aspect of people's lives. When I had a big project in school, I tried to take video of the showcase of said projects. Then I would create a video highlighting the memories of both the project, and the fun that went into working on it.

If I were to have the honor of volunteering as you do, I would be more interested in lighting. I feel that the two things that influence the audience during a show the most are lighting and special effects.

I am curious about one thing though; what did you use the pneumatics for? Also, what do the remote-controlled robots do on the set/during a show?

Foster 27-08-2012 12:08

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by rsisk (Post 1183271)
How is this topic possible? It would imply the existence of a life outside of robotics.

I've gotten so used to working 40 hours, doing robots for 90 hours, commuting, sleeping and eating the rest that I keep the pace up all year. :rolleyes: So I
  • Make and fly big kites (I have a 8'*8'*20' double box about ready to fly)
  • Build electronic kits
  • Ham radio (I'm K3FXS, working on moon bounce)
  • Boating in the summer
  • Software development on some open source projects
which leaves me 15 minutes a day to pet the cat.

Garrett.d.w 27-08-2012 12:19

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I too like filling up my time. It has gotten to the point where I typically get less sleep during the summer

To fill all of that valuable time I enjoy:
Swimming
Working as a Lifeguard
Working on cars (66 Mustang and a 63 Datsun Fairlady)
Arduinos
Martial Arts (recently replaced by the gym, the TKD studio isn't open late enough:rolleyes: )
Edit: Forgot to add photography

Oh... I almost forgot CD and Reddit, I still somehow find time to browse both of them.

Edit: Also adding pics because... yeah.

The Cars




The back half only, the front doesn't exist... yet

Martial Arts (Karate from a long time ago)


And photography. Not my best, but my favorite



Hopefully this post isn't too big.

Chris is me 27-08-2012 12:31

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I need more / new non-robotic hobbies, but in the past my main time sink outside of robotics was college radio. I've been a DJ, a music director, and Program Director of 91.5 FM WRPI in Troy, NY. As a mechanical engineer, the mostly-electrical environment of radio is still a little alien to me, but it's certainly broadened my base a bit and I've learned a lot about music, communication, and leadership through my involvement with WRPI.

I think this semester I'm going to help with tech stuff for my school's theater group. It's low commitment and interesting enough that it should keep me busy on top of a full course load.

jwallace15 27-08-2012 13:11

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris is me (Post 1183287)
I need more / new non-robotic hobbies, but in the past my main time sink outside of robotics was college radio.

Can I suggest models? Building or collecting (or both) models can be a great hobby. I collect model trains. It's more expensive than building models (because trains are premade and actually function). I've tried building model airplanes and cars before, but I don't like waiting for glue to dry :o

Most hobby shops carry models. Why don't you give that a try?

Koko Ed 27-08-2012 13:25

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I am trying to produce a webcomic.
I also collect Poison Dart Frogs.



EricH 27-08-2012 13:28

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I'm trying to get further into R/C aircraft, but what with robotics stuff taking free time and all, I'm currently somewhat grounded. (That and I haven't gotten around to repairing my one airplane. See robotics and free time.)

Joe G. 27-08-2012 13:31

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I build and fly High Power Rockets





2,193 feet, Mach 0.72

IndySam 27-08-2012 13:51

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I have a thousand other hobbies but the only other one I'm serious about is poker.

JesseK 27-08-2012 13:56

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Koko Ed (Post 1183293)
I am trying to produce a webcomic.
I also collect Poison Dart Frogs.

o.O Don't mess with Ed...


I work, and ...
  • I poke around with my 3DR Quad Rotor. Right now one of the motors has a bent shaft, so I'm waiting for robotics to start at the school so I can press in a new shaft. I'm also working to make their Planning Software more ... user friendly...
  • I'm also doing Tough Mudder in less than 2 weeks.
  • I got married 2 weeks after champs this year, so there's that to take lots of time. Recently, we've become addicts of Battlestar Galactica
  • I also have a furry dog who turns on his demand-for-attention cuteness like a faucet. He likes to train for Tough Mudder with me.
  • I'm also poking around UDK/CryEngine to figure out if a game concept I've thought of is even fun. If it doesn't work out, maybe I'll write the story into a book. This one's more of a 'when I get to it' hobby though, since no game engine seems to do what I want out of the box.

Koko Ed 27-08-2012 14:14

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by JesseK (Post 1183301)
o.O Don't mess with Ed...


I work, and ...
  • I poke around with my 3DR Quad Rotor. Right now one of the motors has a bent shaft, so I'm waiting for robotics to start at the school so I can press in a new shaft. I'm also working to make their Planning Software more ... user friendly...
  • I'm also doing Tough Mudder in less than 2 weeks.
  • I got married 2 weeks after champs this year, so there's that to take lots of time. Recently, we've become addicts of Battlestar Galactica
  • I also have a furry dog who turns on his demand-for-attention cuteness like a faucet. He likes to train for Tough Mudder with me.
  • I'm also poking around UDK/CryEngine to figure out if a game concept I've thought of is even fun. If it doesn't work out, maybe I'll write the story into a book. This one's more of a 'when I get to it' hobby though, since no game engine seems to do what I want out of the box.

The frogs aren't poisonous in captivity ( I found one had escaped and was hopping around the kitchen floor when I was getting ready to leave. I scooped him up with my bare hands and put him back in the tank. I quick wash of the hands and I was out the door with nary a cough).

jwallace15 27-08-2012 14:41

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I must say, I've heard of collecting animals such as snakes and lizards. But Poison Dart Frogs? How exotic! I love that!

Botwoon 27-08-2012 14:43

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by JesseK (Post 1183301)
o.O Don't mess with Ed...


I work, and ...[list][*]I poke around with my 3DR Quad Rotor. Right now one of the motors has a bent shaft, so I'm waiting for robotics to start at the school so I can press in a new shaft. I'm also working to make their Planning Software more ... user friendly...

Awesome, I've got a quad myself. I built the frame myself, basing it somewhat off the original arducopter frames. I even managed to sneak the arms in with the robot frame when we sent it to be anodized this year. :D

If all goes well and I get the O.K. to do so, I should have a nice aerial surprise at champs next year.

Allison K 27-08-2012 14:46

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I love backpacking and general outdoor adventure activities including snowboarding, SCUBA diving, and caving. As part of that I also volunteer as an advisor for Venturing, which is a co-ed division of boy scouts, through which I've gotten to lead youth on numerous exciting trips. I also enjoy business and have started one company and have ideas and plans to start at least two more. Also, I read, which I know is cliche and generic but applicable none the less.

billbo911 27-08-2012 14:57

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I have WAY TOO MANY hobbies, according to my wonderful wife!
So, I now try to combine them so that the total count "appears" to be a bit less.

As an example, two of my hobbies are Backpacking and Landscape Photography.
These two lend them selves perfectly to being combined.

Quite often, my goal is to tell a story with the pictures, or transport the viewer to where they may never get a chance to go.

Here are a couple shots that exemplify my efforts.


This is a panorama of 1000 Island Lake with Banner Pk in the back ground. his was taken during a trip along a segment of the John Muir Trail.


Sunset from our campsite that evening.


Jake, taking it all in.

These are the gentlemen I got to share this recent adventure with. Taken at 11,100ft on top of Donahue Pass between Yosemite NP and the Inyo National Forest.


L to R:
Me. My good friend Michael Junker. My son, Jordan Kendall, he is the one to blame for my addiction to robotics. Jake Wolart, Eagle Scout and former student, now fellow mentor on 2073 EagleForce.

Madison 27-08-2012 17:19

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183290)
Can I suggest models? Building or collecting (or both) models can be a great hobby. I collect model trains. It's more expensive than building models (because trains are premade and actually function). I've tried building model airplanes and cars before, but I don't like waiting for glue to dry :o

Most hobby shops carry models. Why don't you give that a try?

If you are in any way inclined toward playing with model trains, Chris, you're in a great spot for it. RPI has a fantastic model railroad.

http://railroad.union.rpi.edu/index....ritage_Website

Model railroad operations can be interesting if you like problem-solving and puzzles.

jwallace15 27-08-2012 18:48

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:

Originally Posted by Madison (Post 1183316)
If you are in any way inclined toward playing with model trains, Chris, you're in a great spot for it. RPI has a fantastic model railroad.

Look at mine...
Not as spectacular, but I've worked hard on it since I was about 7. I put it away for a few years, but as of 2010 I set it back up and starting collecting again!

The one on the link you gave is HO scale, which is very small. I find that larger O-Gauge trains are more fun, in that they have more detail. Most train sets showcase older times in America. I focused on the modern era of railroading. There is a NASCAR track on the left table surrounded by light poles. The light poles each have 1 functioning light thata illuminate the track. There is a clock, caution light, and green light on one tower (if you are a racing fan you would understand). Some have lights used for the train platform (the innermost loop). There is also a binary switch controlling 3 additional lights which illuminate the opposite side of said train platform. I also took the speakers from an old toy (an electronic piano keyboard) and soldered then to wires for a 3.5mm jack (a.k.a. a headphone slot) so I can play iPod music over loudspeakers. My main "Board", as I call it, contains over 40 terminals (although not all are used), 2 main breakers (which I use as control switches for all accesories and for the power to the track), a keyed ignition (for the track power :) ), a switch for the stadium lights, and 2 emergency stop buttons (one is on the opposite side of the table) that shut off all 18 VAC circuits (there is also a 12 VDC transformer from my old PC as well as 3 AA's for LED's).

The locomotive is a GE-9-44CW (also known as a DASH-9). A photo of the actual locomotive can be found here. The rail line is BNSF, based around the northwestern United States. I have 2 other locomotives- an EMD GP38-2 from Santa Fe (almost the entire western USA. Mine is a different paint scheme) and a 2-8-4 Berkshire Steam Locomotive, although I don't use the Berkshire much.

Sorry for the novel-post, but I'm just a train nut!!! :cool:

Jim Wilks 27-08-2012 20:02

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I collect pinball machines. With about 60 of them currently in my collection, my basement is getting full. I love the lure of the silver ball!

Billfred 27-08-2012 20:09

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Like Rick, FRC does take up a large amount of my free time.

But over the past few weeks, I've started getting back into remote controlled trucks, a hobby I was into back in high school. (Living in the dorms at USC kinda killed it off, aided by the closing of the nearest track.) A few weeks ago, my mom passed along an article in the local paper about an indoor dirt track that opened up beside the local ice rink. I went over and rented a truck for a while, and the bug got me again.

A little eBay hunting later, I now own a Slash VXL and have been replacing parts on it as they break. (And I've broken more than I care to admit--bent axles and pins, broken chassis plate and A-arms, enough shot bearings to make me buy the value pack...)

But the ability to wrench on something, have some fun with it, and still fit it in my condo is pretty awesome. :)

z_beeblebrox 27-08-2012 21:29

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Fencing. Spending time with dog. Building big, wood RC glider. Flying Blade MQX quadcopter.


connor.worley 27-08-2012 21:29

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I was on a swim team for 8 years, but robotics has replaced that :p. I play piano.

DonRotolo 27-08-2012 21:37

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183269)
This particular kit is a 4-way stop sign.

Looks more like a traffic light to me...:p

Goodness, where to start?

Ham Radio (N2IRZ)
Electronics
Metalworking (Lathe, Milling machine, etc)
Woodworking
Gardening
Cars
Computers & software
CNC machining
Reading (Science Fiction)
Writing (about all the above - and getting paid for it!)
Home repairs (OK, that's not a hobby...)

There's a lot more, but those are the basics

jwallace15 27-08-2012 21:46

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Changed it to stoplight :o thanks for noticing or I would have never saw that!!!

rsisk 28-08-2012 00:24

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Wilks (Post 1183326)
I collect pinball machines. With about 60 of them currently in my collection, my basement is getting full. I love the lure of the silver ball!


Would love to see some pictures! This has to be one of the cooler hobbies.

Ian Curtis 28-08-2012 00:51

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Foster (Post 1183278)
I've gotten so used to working 40 hours, doing robots for 90 hours, commuting, sleeping and eating the rest that I keep the pace up all year. :rolleyes: So I
  • Make and fly big kites (I have a 8'*8'*20' double box about ready to fly)

Alright, you are not going to get away with posting in this thread saying you have an enormous kite and not at least post a picture of it. :D

This thread needs more pictures. If you do cool stuff, you should post pictures so we can look at it!

I have spent entirely too much money on R/C airplanes. I don't own all the planes pictured in this closet, but I own other ones that aren't in that closet. The best kinds of hobbies are the ones where you can watch your dollar bills burn, aren't they?

Before I moved out to Washington to work with commercial jets, I spent a lot of time restoring vintage airplanes. There are a ton of airplanes here too, but recently I've been spending time on the water with old sailboats. (Dock on the left is filled with boats when people aren't renting them)

Also used to spend a lot of time messing around with CNC routers & tools, but I don't think I could hoist this up into my third story apartment. (Probably the only picture of a lobster trap and CNC machine together on the internet)

I've taken a couple of flights and am on a waitlist to fly gliders at a local club here. Definitely the most fun I've had in airplane.

And you can't live out here without riding an old bike... still working on the skinny jeans and thick rimmed glasses though.

I need to find a garage, my lathe is sitting in a box and probably getting pretty lonely. :(

Madison 28-08-2012 01:08

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183322)
Look at mine...
Not as spectacular, but I've worked hard on it since I was about 7. I put it away for a few years, but as of 2010 I set it back up and starting collecting again!

The one on the link you gave is HO scale, which is very small. I find that larger O-Gauge trains are more fun, in that they have more detail. Most train sets showcase older times in America. I focused on the modern era of railroading. There is a NASCAR track on the left table surrounded by light poles. The light poles each have 1 functioning light thata illuminate the track. There is a clock, caution light, and green light on one tower (if you are a racing fan you would understand). Some have lights used for the train platform (the innermost loop). There is also a binary switch controlling 3 additional lights which illuminate the opposite side of said train platform. I also took the speakers from an old toy (an electronic piano keyboard) and soldered then to wires for a 3.5mm jack (a.k.a. a headphone slot) so I can play iPod music over loudspeakers. My main "Board", as I call it, contains over 40 terminals (although not all are used), 2 main breakers (which I use as control switches for all accesories and for the power to the track), a keyed ignition (for the track power :) ), a switch for the stadium lights, and 2 emergency stop buttons (one is on the opposite side of the table) that shut off all 18 VAC circuits (there is also a 12 VDC transformer from my old PC as well as 3 AA's for LED's).

The locomotive is a GE-9-44CW (also known as a DASH-9). A photo of the actual locomotive can be found here. The rail line is BNSF, based around the northwestern United States. I have 2 other locomotives- an EMD GP38-2 from Santa Fe (almost the entire western USA. Mine is a different paint scheme) and a 2-8-4 Berkshire Steam Locomotive, although I don't use the Berkshire much.

Sorry for the novel-post, but I'm just a train nut!!! :cool:

Cool! I grew up with model trains and even worked at a hobby shop for awhile selling them. In addition to my dad's HO trains from when he was a kid and my brother's Lionel trains, I have my own collection of N scale equipment -- probably about 20-30 locomotives of varied sorts (N&W J, D&H PA1 A-A set, NKP GP35, UP E8 A-B-B-A, among others) and a few dozen freight and passenger cars. Before I moved to Seattle, I was working on a 12' x 12' two-level N scale set that focused on switching operations.

I live in an apartment now so my trains sit in boxes at home, but I've been thinking about building a small layout in N or Z scale in my spare bedroom.

So, since I've come this far -- in addition to liking model trains a lot, I also like some other things.

- I love karaoke. I am not a great singer (or maybe not even a good one), but karaoke is a blast. I'm usually pretty shy, but I'm totally fine with singing in front of strangers.

- I love theme parks and roller coasters. I've been on about 160 different roller coasters to date and am going to Disneyland and Magic Mountain in a few weeks to catch a few more.

- I have a lot of shoes.

- I like to DJ parties

- I play a fair bit of League of Legends and DotA 2.

EricH 28-08-2012 01:24

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Before getting into robotics, my dad and I ran N-scale. Usually, it was either Burlington Northern or Belmont Shore (the club railroad), though I have an Amtrak train. We still break out the set on some occasions.

Then robotics came along, and there went free time...

Billfred 28-08-2012 08:12

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ian Curtis (Post 1183360)
Alright, you are not going to get away with posting in this thread saying you have an enormous kite and not at least post a picture of it. :D

This thread needs more pictures. If you do cool stuff, you should post pictures so we can look at it!

Well, sure!

The truck after I broke the main chassis (remember kids, they design in screws for a reason!)
And after (ran great until I broke a rear A-arm and killed a bearing!)

Quote:

The best kinds of hobbies are the ones where you can watch your dollar bills burn, aren't they?
Apparently!

Adam Freeman 28-08-2012 09:00

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Billfred (Post 1183367)
Well, sure!

The truck after I broke the main chassis (remember kids, they design in screws for a reason!)
And after (ran great until I broke a rear A-arm and killed a bearing!)

Apparently!

You pay all that money for a Traxxas, so that they don't break. Must be driving it really hard....or really bad. ;)

I just recently bought a Redcat Lightning XTG for me and my 5 year old son to play with. We got it last Friday. Two battery packs later, he smashed it into a pole and broke the lower control arm at the hinge pin. Hopefully the epoxy holds and we will be back up and running tonight.

Heading to the r/c track this weekend. Good thing I ordered some spare parts. :cool:

JamesCH95 28-08-2012 12:07

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
My main hobby outside of robotics is playing race car and race car driver in various forms.






jwallace15 28-08-2012 13:02

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesCH95 (Post 1183391)
My main hobby outside of robotics is playing race car and race car driver in various forms.

Have you ever played NR2003?

Also...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Madison (Post 1183362)
Cool! I grew up with model trains and even worked at a hobby shop for awhile selling them. In addition to my dad's HO trains from when he was a kid and my brother's Lionel trains, I have my own collection of N scale equipment -- probably about 20-30 locomotives of varied sorts (N&W J, D&H PA1 A-A set, NKP GP35, UP E8 A-B-B-A, among others) and a few dozen freight and passenger cars. Before I moved to Seattle, I was working on a 12' x 12' two-level N scale set that focused on switching operations.

Sounds like your collection exceeds mine. I'd like to have a collection your size, but O-Gauge is too expensive. I looked up the price of an N-Scale Big Boy- About $25. In O-Gauge the Big Boy fetches about $1,800... Although I'm fine with just my DASH-9. I focus on cars... you said you have a few dozen? I envy that... I have 4 O-Gauge cars and approximately 7 O-27 cars. O-27 has the same sized trucks as O-Gauge, but O-Gauge is larger, and more detailed. I try to stick with BNSF and Burlington Northern cars now, although I don't mind my few Santa-Fe cars. I try to stick with the common rail line. I don't like my Conrail tank car... It looks ugly with the DASH-9! baby blue + orange = :yikes:

JamesCH95 28-08-2012 13:07

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183396)
Have you ever played NR2003?

No, I like turning right sometimes :p (I'm just teasing, I know there are road courses).

Seriously though, I am working through Forza4 right now. The customization and tuning options are good enough to the point that I notice the same behavior between my Forza cars and their real-life counterparts.

jwallace15 28-08-2012 13:30

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesCH95 (Post 1183397)
Seriously though, I am working through Forza4 right now. The customization and tuning options are good enough to the point that I notice the same behavior between my Forza cars and their real-life counterparts.

From what I can see, Forza 4 looks good. Unfortunately, I don't have a 360 pr PS3. Are there any racing games for PC you can recommend?

JamesCH95 28-08-2012 14:08

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183401)
From what I can see, Forza 4 looks good. Unfortunately, I don't have a 360 pr PS3. Are there any racing games for PC you can recommend?

iRacing is phenomenal, but pricey.

F1 Challange is good, technical, and very hard.

Those are the only two PC games I've really had much experience with that'd I recommend.

Billfred 28-08-2012 18:39

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Adam Freeman (Post 1183369)
You pay all that money for a Traxxas, so that they don't break. Must be driving it really hard....or really bad. ;)

I just recently bought a Redcat XTG for me and my 5 year old son to play with. We got it last Friday. Two battery packs later, he smashed it into a pole and broke the lower control arm at the hinge pin. Hopefully the epoxy holds and we will be back up and running tonight.

Heading to the r/c track this weekend. Good thing I ordered some spare parts. :cool:

While I am on record that a Slash VXL has more speed than I have talent (especially on the relatively tight track I run at), I can also hide behind the fact that I bought the Slash used. The previous owner had put on 1/8-scale wheels and tires, different shocks and bearing blocks, and a few RPM bits; the only upgrade I've added was going to RPM rear A-arms after the stock set broke near the pin (looks like the pin got loose).

The chassis went because the transmission wasn't screwed into the rear skid plate--I hadn't torn into that part to see how it all worked, so I didn't realize that its omission meant the whole rear end of the truck (transmission, motor, shock tower, A-arms) was sending all of its load through a small tab on the main chassis plate (plus whatever marginal support the skid plate provided). Really, it's a miracle the truck made it through practice, two heats, and half a main.

Last time I ran, the truck was tracking oddly; first hunch was a diff issue, but further inspection showed the bearings were going (again--one was bad when I bought it, but a fix was in the box). No telling where the last owner drove (there were sand paddles in the box mounted on stadium truck tires), so I figure that's just life. I'm just going to replace all eight on the truck with brand new ones so I don't get bit by this again.

Naturally, while troubleshooting that bearing issue I disconnected the motor from the ESC so I could get the whole back half of the truck off. While doing so, one of the ESC's plugs decided it was going to go along for the ride with the motor lead. I'll have to break out the soldering iron before my next run too.

It's the risk you run when buying used--but this has been a good lesson in a lot of things about the truck. I'm sure to run out of things to break eventually!*

*famous last words...

Astrokid248 28-08-2012 20:18

Where to start...
My biggest hobby is cosplay and prop making. After that it's sketching (traditional and digital), a bit of writing, and playing fetch with my cat (not joking). I'm getting back into stained glass, and I use robotics for my photography practice so it doesn't count.

MrForbes 28-08-2012 20:24

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Wilks (Post 1183326)
I collect pinball machines. With about 60 of them currently in my collection, my basement is getting full. I love the lure of the silver ball!

I just have the old Royal Flush, one of the last EM games.

But I do have more than 60 old computers....and a dozen or so old typewriters.

I also do cars. this was a bit over a week ago, I'm driving the 55 chevy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC6-0LXwE8Y

jmiller48167 28-08-2012 20:48

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
For the last 5 years when not at robotics I play vintage base ball (yes two words). We play by the rules from 1864. No spitting, no swearing, no sliding, no overrunning first base, and no gloves. Bare hand base ball is a blast. Another unique rule is if the batter hits the ball in fair territory first and then it goes foul before the base it is still fair. Pop flies can be caught after one bounce and the hitter is still out.

s_forbes 28-08-2012 20:49

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
1 Attachment(s)
Another pinball owner, but I've only had two. I like the EMs from the 70s, but I'm looking into getting an early solid state pin when a nice title pops up on craigslist.

Also unicycles... I have a few, been getting into distance riding lately on my 36in. I'm into juggling (haven't quite mastered the 5-ball cascade yet), slack-lining, fixies and the usual nonsense as well.

Still play with LEGOs, too, but that should be a prerequisite for any full time roboticist. :)

Lately my main 'hobby' has been buying a new house.

sanddrag 28-08-2012 22:13

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by squirrel (Post 1183452)
But I do have more than 60 old computers....[/url]

I'm interested if you have a link detailing or at least listing some of those. I too take some interest in old computers.

Botwoon 28-08-2012 22:22

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Billfred (Post 1183440)
While I am on record that a Slash VXL has more speed than I have talent (especially on the relatively tight track I run at), I can also hide behind the fact that I bought the Slash used. The previous owner had put on 1/8-scale wheels and tires, different shocks and bearing blocks, and a few RPM bits; the only upgrade I've added was going to RPM rear A-arms after the stock set broke near the pin (looks like the pin got loose).

The chassis went because the transmission wasn't screwed into the rear skid plate--I hadn't torn into that part to see how it all worked, so I didn't realize that its omission meant the whole rear end of the truck (transmission, motor, shock tower, A-arms) was sending all of its load through a small tab on the main chassis plate (plus whatever marginal support the skid plate provided). Really, it's a miracle the truck made it through practice, two heats, and half a main.

Last time I ran, the truck was tracking oddly; first hunch was a diff issue, but further inspection showed the bearings were going (again--one was bad when I bought it, but a fix was in the box). No telling where the last owner drove (there were sand paddles in the box mounted on stadium truck tires), so I figure that's just life. I'm just going to replace all eight on the truck with brand new ones so I don't get bit by this again.

Naturally, while troubleshooting that bearing issue I disconnected the motor from the ESC so I could get the whole back half of the truck off. While doing so, one of the ESC's plugs decided it was going to go along for the ride with the motor lead. I'll have to break out the soldering iron before my next run too.

It's the risk you run when buying used--but this has been a good lesson in a lot of things about the truck. I'm sure to run out of things to break eventually!*

*famous last words...

I've had an RC18B that I converted to a T, then upgraded to the 18B2 chassis when it came out, and is currently not operational anymore. I had it running somewhere in the high 40s to 50s on the original chassis, the steel diffs you could buy for it held up much better than the current one.

Presently I've got an SC10 and SC104x4, which needs a new idler gear and spur. I've really had no time to go to any of my local tracks for a long time, and as such haven't had the motivation to fix it up. I've got a friend with a Slash, so I'll probably loan out the SC10 to his brother and have all three of us go down to the track sometime; there are some really awesome tracks in socal. I've met a lot of people in FRC who are into RC, in fact I know that Adam Heard is an avid RCer himself. Titan had crawler tires on the jaws, and Encore's pitching wheel had some small slicks stretched over it :D

MrForbes 28-08-2012 22:23

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by sanddrag (Post 1183466)
I'm interested if you have a link detailing or at least listing some of those. I too take some interest in old computers.

Just a few of them.

http://selectric.org/computer.html

Wayne TenBrink 29-08-2012 00:03

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Robotics has completely pushed out all my other (former) winter hobbies, like woodworking and model railroading.

I have a 30 acre hobby farm with a few beef cattle and my daughter's horse. Most of my farm equipment is from the 1950's. I have restored several old John Deere tractors, which provide the power.

Anupam Goli 29-08-2012 10:12

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
hmm... Hobbying.

I really like working with electronics, particularly computers and audio. My project that i've spend a lot of time working on and improving is a battery powered amplifier (shown here in my magnificent Georgia Tech dorm):http://i.imgur.com/Vz2FE.jpg

Internals(EE's, I know my wire placement was terrible, but this project has been going on for two years because shorting chips and modifications):
http://i.imgur.com/26RGk.jpg



I'm also working on a video game. I'm of the mindset that a video game is a form of art and literature. of course, it's also fun, but you can tell a unique story through a video game.

Taylor 29-08-2012 11:46

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Hobbies are SCUBA diving and traveling; wifey and I collect mortar-and-pestles as we go (she's a pharmacist). I also enjoy watersports of all types - skiing, trick skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, barefooting, sailing (we've got a 15-foot HobieCat), fishing, snow skiing, snowboarding ... the combination of jobs + family have put a (hopefully temporary) hold on most of these adventures, though.

Foster 29-08-2012 11:52

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ian Curtis (Post 1183360)
Alright, you are not going to get away with posting in this thread saying you have an enormous kite and not at least post a picture of it. :D

This is the parafoil that I "fly" It's a few inches under 20'. I'm flying it, it's about 150' in the air in front of me. It's tethered to an anchor with 7/16" line. I can do some stunts, but it's a handful in high winds. Total lift in a 10 MPH wind is about 350 lbs.

The current box kite project looks like a pile of fabric and struts. Once I get it into the air long enough to get a photo I'll post it.

billbo911 29-08-2012 12:17

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Foster (Post 1183511)
This is the parafoil that I "fly" It's a few inches under 20'. I'm flying it, it's about 150' in the air in front of me. It's tethered to an anchor with 7/16" line. I can do some stunts, but it's a handful in high winds. Total lift in a 10 MPH wind is about 350 lbs.

The current box kite project looks like a pile of fabric and struts. Once I get it into the air long enough to get a photo I'll post it.

Wow, thanks for reminding me Foster. One of my other hobbies has been building and flying (if you can call what I do with them "flying") stunt kites.
I have built two thus far and posted tutorials/Blogs on how each was built.

My first is a "Vortex".

The photo journal for this can be found at http://billbo911.smugmug.com/Hobbies...9922633_msdvzM.


The second was built for my wife. It is a modified "P2". Can you guess what the modification is?

Jim Wilks 29-08-2012 17:51

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
2 Attachment(s)
I collect pinball machines.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rsisk (Post 1183357)
Would love to see some pictures! This has to be one of the cooler hobbies.

Here's a couple of quick photos. The first one is a little out of focus, but I'm sure you can get the idea.

rsisk 29-08-2012 19:16

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Wilks (Post 1183548)
I collect pinball machines.



Here's a couple of quick photos. The first one is a little out of focus, but I'm sure you can get the idea.

Oh man, how sweet it is! I grew up playing pinball, little bit older machines than those, but what a nice collection

skimoose 29-08-2012 21:13

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
4 Attachment(s)
When I'm not doing robotics, there are many hobbies and interests. My bucket list is four lifetimes long!

Some of the majors are:

Running. 5Ks, 10Ks, and half-marathons. Maybe I'll throw in a full marathon next year.

Snowboarding. I started snowboarding in 1983 for any of you younger types that think I started snowboarding to connect with my kids. I actually raced in the US Open for two years, downhill and slalom. I still race slalom even during build season. That's my latest ride a custom Donek board. Its a Bertaletti GS model hard booter with Catek OS2 bindings. I love going really fast and powerful carving. I'll leave the parks and pipes for you younger riders with better backs. If you're curious about hard boot snowboarding or going fast, look for me at New England ski areas.

Model Railroading. I prefer the path less traveled. I model in HOn3 scale (narrow gauge - only 3' between the rails). I don't currently have a layout, but I'm planning for one soon. I like to scratch build (use as few commercial parts as possible) models. This one is a prototype caboose in HOn3 with a full interior I'm slowly finishing. This one is a great test of my mid-life eyes as it's less than 4" long. It's great to see I'm in good company with you other CD model railroaders.

Keeping busy is living!

Andrew Lawrence 29-08-2012 21:49

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Outside of robotics? That exists?! :ahh:

On a more serious note, when I'm not learning or engineering, I like going running. Run to robotics room, run back, do a lap around the school campus during the 5 minute passing period (still haven't been late!), run to the park, run anywhere, really. It's helped me earn the nickname "Forrest Gump" at school. :P

Ryan Dognaux 29-08-2012 22:25

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Last summer I took up homebrewing as a hobby and haven't looked back. I've gone from buying simple extract kits to crafting my own recipes and buying grain in bulk to mill as needed. You gain a real respect for the amount of variables that affect your end product, and you end up with a great tasting beer or cider that you made yourself.

jwallace15 29-08-2012 23:24

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryan Dognaux (Post 1183577)
Last summer I took up homebrewing as a hobby and haven't looked back. I've gone from buying simple extract kits to crafting my own recipes and buying grain in bulk to mill as needed. You gain a real respect for the amount of variables that affect your end product, and you end up with a great tasting beer or cider that you made yourself.

That's a hobby my Dad picked up before we moved to our current house. Prior to my birth he brewed his own beer. After I was born, we started making sodas such as root beer. After we put a new sink in our basement and get a fridge large enough for kegs, we'll start making soda again!
Do you make soda as well as beer and cider? I know the three aren't really related, but do you do it/have you tried it?

rsisk 29-08-2012 23:49

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
OK, robotics in theater... Here is a video from a show I did over the summer...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIlU-...ature=youtu.be

Ryan Dognaux 30-08-2012 08:49

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183582)
That's a hobby my Dad picked up before we moved to our current house. Prior to my birth he brewed his own beer. After I was born, we started making sodas such as root beer. After we put a new sink in our basement and get a fridge large enough for kegs, we'll start making soda again!
Do you make soda as well as beer and cider? I know the three aren't really related, but do you do it/have you tried it?

I haven't made any soda yet but I have looked into it and they sell extract kits for those as well. All you really need is a 5 gallon food-grade bucket and some plastic PET bottles. The number one thing I've read with soda is to always use plastic bottles, because if you get the carbonation wrong and use glass bottles you run the risk of creating 'bottle bombs.'

jwallace15 30-08-2012 10:40

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ryan Dognaux (Post 1183604)
The number one thing I've read with soda is to always use plastic bottles, because if you get the carbonation wrong and use glass bottles you run the risk of creating 'bottle bombs.'

This is our system. His soda bottles are on the top part on the door. Above that is the carbonation hose. Below that... either it's the CO2 tank or a keg. I've never seen one of the kegs before, but my guess is a CO2 tank.

IndySam 30-08-2012 11:47

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
As long as he doesn't use that Algaefix in the soda.

jwallace15 30-08-2012 12:05

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by IndySam (Post 1183629)
As long as he doesn't use that Algaefix in the soda.

Nope that's for our pond. After it thaws in the spring it gets cloudy from algae and other organisms in the water. So we put the algaefix in the springtime to fix the algae ( ;) ) and bacteria in once a month during the summer to make sure it stays clear.

Boydean 30-08-2012 12:24

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
If I'm not developing software (which consumes my full time job and much of my own time) I'm either working at my church as an audio director or playing racquetball.

Note: get more hobbies that aren't related to technology.

machman-2823 04-09-2012 10:20

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by rsisk (Post 1183271)
How is this topic possible? It would imply the existance of a life outside of robotics.

So true Rsisk, while I do do things outside of robotics, I always end up linking it to FRC.

I code, fly jets, and go "Jeeping"

roboX 18-02-2013 20:46

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Art.

Anything Art.

And building.

Anything building.

Photo Storm 30-05-2013 23:55

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Crew (Rowing a rowing shell takes up the same amount of time as FRC but lasts longer)
Fishing
Kayaking (Not like crew)
Photography
Biking
Anything outside
Hanging out with non-robotics friends
Flying RC planes and helicopters

ferret_guy 31-05-2013 16:52

spud guns :D

JamesCH95 04-06-2013 09:41

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ferret_guy (Post 1278019)
spud guns :D

You rang?



:D

ferret_guy 08-06-2013 13:47

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
No, Like this


kristinweiss 08-06-2013 21:27

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Skiing- when I can find time during the winter to drive to NC (I live in Atl where we get very little snow)
Tennis- only school tennis season is the same as FRC season and robots come first
Microbiology- current working at Emory Winship Cancer Center trying to inhibit the growth of brain tumors

ghostmachine360 09-06-2013 12:48

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Alright, let's see.....

Sports/Being Active: I'm into playing different sports, such as racquetball, football (the football that matters to everyone else in the world)*, American football, Masters Swimming, volleyball, and just starting MMA.
*I'm from London, originally.

Church: I work as one of the main leaders over the Student Ministries division (Middle School, High School, & College/Young Adults) of World Harvest Church in Roswell. I also work doing missions efforts with the church in Honduras & South Africa.

Photography: My favorite is photo shoots with my friends at different landmarks around downtown Atlanta, Roswell, & Marietta.

Jacob Bendicksen 09-06-2013 20:01

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I'm an avid climber (rocks but mountains are preferred), so I was pretty psyched when I saw this year's game. Random fact: I use the gizmo that they used to lower the robots almost daily (a Black Diamond ATC, if you were wondering).

JamesCH95 11-06-2013 08:26

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ferret_guy (Post 1278949)

Methinks you might benefit from a significantly longer barrel. I've never actually seen a gun where the storage/combustion chamber is longer than (or as long as) the barrel.

Ian Curtis 13-12-2014 21:57

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Since hobbies change over time and hobby season is almost over, I think it's time we revive this thread. :)

Since last time I've stopped flying (no time) and sailing wooden boats (too far away). In the mean time, I bought my old truck (see profile picture) and got interested in Victrolas.

86 year old vehicles always seem to have something wrong with them, so I've had plenty of fun futzing around with it and a laundry list of "nice-to-have" tasks. At this point most of the "nice-to-haves" are pretty involved, so it will probably stay in its current state for a while. My fiance & I took it to get a Christmas tree... we made lots of friends in the parking lot.




Victrolas play 78 RPM records, which are not the records most people think of when you say records. 78s are typically shellac, and heavy! They are entirely mechanical too -- no electricity required, just a hand crank. Example Audio



I got my first Victrola when a friend moved onto a boat and didn't have space for it anymore. I spent all of last year collecting Christmas music so I'd have some recognizable music to play, and while decorating the tree last weekend the main spring snapped! So I went on Craigslist and picked up another one. The mechanism that runs them is a very cool little rig, here is video detailing their operation & disassembly.

tStano 13-12-2014 23:06

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Darkroom photography
Cooking
Canning
Baking
Running, biking, swimming

Kuhnahtt 18-12-2014 17:43

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I ride horses, volunteer, deep around on the Deep Web and other not so sketchy places on the computer, play electric bass, draw, paint, and play xbox. Also, I enjoy messing with Blender.

Sparky_P_ 04-01-2015 18:31

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I go to conventions, cosplay at said conventions, sit around on the computer, babysit (it's actually a job since I get paid, does that count?), sing, read, and play video games.

RallyJeff 04-01-2015 20:36

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by jwallace15 (Post 1183269)
I have to ask - Do you have a fun hobby that you do in your spare time?

I'm a rally co-driver:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lgOdEzzXuY

blackbrandt 05-01-2015 19:39

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Joe G. (Post 1183296)
I build and fly High Power Rockets





2,193 feet, Mach 0.72

Gotcha beat there with altitude. :) I did 3K at Mach 0.5. Aerotech I357 in my Darkstar Jr at Freedom Launch with Tripoli South Carolina.


BTW, your photos aren't showing.

nxtmonkeys 05-01-2015 20:39

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I fly Quadcopters, make videogames, do homework, find, communicate with, get rid of ghosts, make short movies, read, go camping, build stuff out of cardboard, make board games, build with legos, and sleep. somehow, I find time for it all.

monza9 07-01-2015 12:02

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Cars, Formula 1, reading, and soccer, mainly.

VexisDarksteele 09-01-2015 22:07

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I love to do metalsmithing in my free time. And the only power tool I use for it is a hand-drill, so it's all handcrafted. I use this little jeweler's saw to cut out my shapes manually, and files to make 'em all smooth. I've made pendants, circlets, rings, windchimes and wall decorations this way. :)

I also love creative writing. I know, I'm a bit of an oddity for actually enjoying writing despite being an engineering student. :P Haha

D_Price 10-01-2015 00:46

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Well out of build season I usually work way too much but in my down time I have a hobby for gun collecting, clay shooting, and small target shooting. Other than that I its robotics full tilt even after build/comp season ends; since planning is year round. Its in our blood! :D :D

Sperkowsky 10-01-2015 08:19

I'm a competitive gymnast

Horsepower3172 10-01-2015 10:29

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
My hobbies are soon going to include MineCraft's redstone, me, and the internet. Time to learn how to utilize the conductive kool-aid powder.

BTW I've been thinking that a future FRC team should model themselves after Skyrim's Dwemer Race. It would be utterly awesome.

Mythheart 07-02-2015 15:17

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Minecraft, Town of Salem, and anything remotely related to Gravity Falls

M3wMew 10-02-2015 19:53

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I have spent countless hours on Pokemon, Guild Wars 2, and cannot wait until the thirteenth for Monster Hunter 4. If anyone plays any games and wants to play or talk or anything, lemme know! I've been looking for more people to play stuff with! :D

rose2dawn 17-02-2015 19:25

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Life outside of robotics is really busy for me. I am in Girl Scouts and the school's Show Choir. I also like to watch assorted nerd shows/movies (Doctor Who, Torchwood,Star Trek, Supernatural, Harry Potter). I also pin on Pinterest, A LOT. Most of my time is taken up by reading, learning random things like other languages and cooking.

Cyrus4292 05-03-2015 19:53

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I like to sing in my free time. Its fun to do. I also like to learn songs. So far I know a couple of songs that are really good. I also like to draw and create thing out of things that is no longer being used. I made a robot out of cardboard boxes and i named him Steve. Oh and I want to be a singer when I grow up.:) :) :) :) :)

Riverdance 05-03-2015 22:12

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Once upon a time I was an extremely competitive Irish dancer. It took up like 90% of my time. I joined the robotics team. Now robotics takes up 90% of my time. I feel like I still go to dance sometimes but I honestly can't remember around all the robotics.

Certified Nerd 06-03-2015 15:04

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
I build and sell 3D printer parts, build robots, garden, play airsoft, modify and fix airsoft guns, shoot guns at targets, build modify and use RC airplanes/boats/airboats/cars, build model rockets and their engines, design modify build and fix electrical circuits, program, replace smart phone screens, etc. So basically anything that has to do with technology design aerospace and/or war games. Oh, I also ski and snowboard and know multiple ballroom and Latin dances (Chacha, Tango, Salsa, Rumba, swing, east coast swing, and Waltz). My room is a design laboratory, so my bed is on stilts to accommodate all my tools and storage drawers. I also play an assortment of videogames, but I don't consider that a hobby, I consider it more of an addiction :).

PS, no success yet with the model rocket engines, the rockets just burn up on the launch pad.

白巨人 10-03-2015 00:43

Re: Non-Robotic Related Hobbies
 
Usually I'm breeding competitive Pokemon or Shiny-hunting, or else writing my stupid Japanese comedy bits for future skits.

I live a boring lifestyle.


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