Vex for the Technically Challenged

[ManicMechanic]

A revised version of "Technically Challenged", along with "A Clueless Coach's Companion" have just been uploaded here:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2019. I had intended to release a trio of rookie resources together (the last is a step-by-step builders' guide), but the last project won't get finished until the fall when our family returns home from overseas, where our Vex equipment is. After the recent announcement, I realized that these documents (prepared in late spring) are quickly on their way to obsolescence.

I have to admit that the increasing unlikelihood of Vex being continued has put quite a damper on any enthusiasm I previously had; I apologize for the artificially euphoric tone in the writings, but they were written during happier times. While the likely discontinuance of Vex makes it less likely that I'll be recruiting rookies this year, I hope that the documents will be of use to someone.

I'm attaching a sample from "Robot Recipes" (the builders' guide) -- if you have a project that you would like featured, I'd love to include it. I'm hoping to list all projects in similar format.

[skimoose]

Originally Posted by ManicMechanic

I have to admit that the increasing unlikelihood of Vex being continued has put quite a damper on any enthusiasm I previously had; I apologize for the artificially euphoric tone in the writings, but they were written during happier times. While the likely discontinuance of Vex makes it less likely that I'll be recruiting rookies this year, I hope that the documents will be of use to someone.

I'll second your sentiments. Whatever FIRST's reasoning for looking for other robotics systems for FTC, it's awfully clear that this move is upsetting many mentors to the point of inaction.

[ManicMechanic]

Originally Posted by ManicMechanic

...the last project won't get finished until the fall...

The "ugly" version of Robot Recipes, the last of the Rookie Trio is posted here: http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2029

Blake is working on a more elegant and aesthetic version, but with FTC season underway, that will probably take a while. The preliminary drawings are ooh-aah-awesome and will be worth the wait.

If you have projects that you want to add to the collection, we'll be glad to include and acknowledge. May not get done 'til next year, though. So many projects, so little time...

[ManicMechanic]

Originally Posted by ManicMechanic

The "ugly" version of Robot Recipes, the last of the Rookie Trio is posted here: http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/2029

Unfortunately, it contains a rather major error.


For the Chin-upbot, (project #2), under "Parts to cut", the instructions for cutting of angle bars are wrong.

The INCORRECT version currently reads:
Cut 3 X 15” angle bars into 2.5” + 12.5” (on the notch) – only the 2.5” pieces are used
Cut 1 X 15” angle bar into 5” + 10” (on the notch) – only the 10” piece is used



The CORRECT version should read:
Cut 3 X 15" angle bars into 5" + 10" (on the notch) - only the 5" pieces are used
From one of the remaining 10" pieces, cut one 7.5" piece (on the notch -- this is the center section)



My apologies -- I hope the error doesn't cause too much frustration & wasted metal. In our eagerness to start on the Challenge, we were a bit hasty in wrapping up this project.