VEX-Lego Hybrid: Mini PackBot

[Steve0100]

Howdy All-
Inspired in part by the Mythbuster's VEX PackBot, I've made a mini- version. It's been a testing and proof of concept platform for a number of VEX hacks and experiments.

It's a fusion of Lego and Vex, with some Erector set parts as well (absolutely essential for any VEX hacker).

I'll call it VLEP 1.0 for the hell of it. (VEX Lego Erector PackBot)










You can view a few other more- detailed photos on Flickr, user name steve0100
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58208036@N00/

VLEP VEX Hacks:
1) Motor output to Lego Motors, re-use of motor casing for electronics
2) Mechanical linkage of VEX and LEGO parts
3) Many Erector Set connecting parts
4) No motor clutches- I really don't think they work that well anyway
5) Where is the hidden RC receiver?

This has been a very educational project, with many other hacking tangents. For example, I've experimented with several different new ways of mounting the motors (More later, including pictures. It involves drilling through the void space of the motor to create more mounting points/ Bolt pass-throughs(Note: this void space is taken up by a potentiometer in the servo, so NO drilling through your servos). Take apart a VEX Motor to see what I am talking about, and If you'd like to interface a Lego or any other small DC motor, all you need is a basic soldering iron, a de-soldering pump ($8 RadioShack, pick up a VEX motor or two on clearance while you are there )

My next step is to add sensors and programming, and to take care of the slippery Vex tread.

Don't be afraid to take apart/ Mangle/ open/ your Vex Parts. Just be sure to share it when you do, and happy hacking!
Steve