[FTC]: Common failures with TETRIX

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Originally Posted by PhilBot

Since, this is the first time the NXT/TETRIX kit has been used, I think it shows great potential, but it's still got a long way to go before I'd call it a great system.

The only way to improve, is to identify and correct problems, so I thought I'd compile a list of common problems we had/saw during this FTC season. I will pass these on to NI/LEGO Education/PITSCO/Hitechnic to see if improvements can be made in future designs.

See if you agree with these, or have any additional suggestions.


Phil.

1) Wobbly Brass Bushings. Our team is seeing this.

2) Bending Axles. We haven't notice this. I believe the axles are steel though.

3) Encoder cables. We've definitely experienced this.

4) Motor burn out. We've been fortunate enough to not experience this. Probably because the clamps always give out first.

5) Motor drive shaft bearings coming loose or free. As far as I know we haven't experienced this. We will have to check the robots over to make sure.

6) The comunications between the NXT and Motor Controller needs to be made MUCH more robust. This is one of our biggest issues. Our Autonomous programs are only 80% at best because of this. I hope this gets fixed.

7) The split clamps will not take anywhere near the torque needed. We have these monster motors but transfering the torque takes modifications to the clamps.

8) The cost of the gears and the poor attachment method.

9) Lack of a longer axle.

10) Inability to use more than 3 sensors.

11) Lack of a decent way to mount the Lego motors.

Enough for now.