[patrickrd]

Team 190's puck control system from 1999. It's hard to call this system a component, because it integrated so many components perfectly to accomplish a single goal.

This system allowed the operator to latch onto one of the bars of the puck with little effort. Next, the puck could be tilted 6-12" off the ground with a motor powered linear actuator. By slamming the puck into the corner of the playing field, opponents were rarely able to get on the puck. Further, 190 had a drive system allowing the robot to move laterally with the puck (all wheels could turn 90º), effectively allowing 190 to use it's robot as a blocking device for other teams trying to get on the puck. As the match approaches 10 seconds left, 190 would reverse it's motor, and hoist itself up off the ground and be fully supported by the puck.

An amazing puck control system, involving every aspect of the robot. In retrospect, this machine definately inspired me to become a mechanical engineer. I've looked back to this design a number of times while working on other FIRST robots and other robotics projects.

- Patrick