Tips for a multi-level robot

[efoote868]

Some advice on wiring -

If you don't already use them, Anderson power pole connectors are a must for modular components. Also invest in a good crimping tool.

For sensors and other components requiring small gauge wires, I'd recommend hacking up a DB9 or DB25 cable (depending on how many connections you need) for a quick disconnect.

Lastly, design your robot layers with wiring in mind. Keep wires going to motors in your drive train as short as possible, but equal in length. Also remember that wires add weight to your robot, and its weight that you can't Swiss-cheese at the end.

[Spirator]

Modular design is very handy, but just make sure you design for easy access, removal and maintenance. Also, find a way to keep things guarded from swarf. The electronics don't work as well when they short circuit.

On our 2012 robot, we modularised all the electronics and put them in a box, but that box could be removed easily and unhooked from the rest of the frame by undoing 3 batch connectors and 3 bolts.

The batch connectors were just Anderson Power Poles bundled together which effectively made removing the electrical box a task even the most electrically challenged person could accomplish. It was just unplug, unscrew and unmount.

I'm sure there was more reasoning behind the design to the 'ooh pretty lights' box, but you'd have to speak to he electrical members of 3132.

[karomata]

Build a robot capable of taking a few bad falls.