View Single Post
  #5   Spotlight this post!  
Unread 21-11-2011, 10:44
Taylor's Avatar
Taylor Taylor is offline
Professor of Thinkology, ThD
AKA: @taylorstem
FRC #3487 (EarthQuakers)
Team Role: Teacher
 
Join Date: Jan 2006
Rookie Year: 2006
Location: Indianapolis, IN, USA 46227
Posts: 4,579
Taylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond reputeTaylor has a reputation beyond repute
Re: Simplicity Vs. Complexity

Make things as complex as they need to be - not any more.

A common thread I've seen in the "powerhouse" designs is to take a very complex task, and engineer it so that the task is done by a series of simple, effective, and elegant mechanisms. Overall, the machines can be very complex, but when broken down into the individual parts, it's either an innovative use of a simple concept or a complex idea that has been refined over multiple seasons and years (i.e. swerve drive).

Another common thread I've seen in the "powerhouse" designs is the use of aids to help the designer/driver/operator/programmer. Well-placed sensors and switches, hard mechanical stops, visual cues, and feedback devices help propel a simple implementation of a simple design into an effective, elegant machine.

A team that works within its means and within its design will create a winning robot. Don't be afraid to stretch your boundaries and grow, but know your limitations.
__________________
Hi!

Last edited by Taylor : 21-11-2011 at 10:48.
Reply With Quote