MorTorq 1515: Robot and Website Unveils

[msimon785]

Hey CD!
Team 1515 is ready to unveil both the 2012 robot and website. We are very proud of our work, and hope you all enjoy.

To start, I would like to introduce MetaBot World Piece.












The robot utilizes a dual stage conveyor system which allows for exactly 3 balls in each stage. The turreted dual-FP shooter shoots the ball approximately 6-8', but that is subject to change. We intend to substitute the 4" wheels for 6". Our bridge mechanism functions passively. Brought down by pneumatics, it serves as a wedge with which the drivetrain pushes down the bridge.

As always, our electronics are fully modular, such that all of the boards can be removed in the course of less than a minute. We utilize sliding rails in which the E-boards slide and clip in. All onboard wiring is run through industry standard WAGO mass connectors which allow for a single unplug to separate all of the actuators from the PDB.

Expect to see our famous touchscreen interface again, but with a new look and feel. As a result of the size constraints for the OI, we have rebuilt the Operator's Interface to allow for an entirely new touchscreen. Instead of running through an industrial PLC, we will be using a touch-capacitive display which runs a ruby application along side the FRC Driver's Station.

Additionally, 100% of the processing for our 2012 robot is now done offboard, on the classmate. This essentially makes the robot "dumb", such that it only runs the commands it is given.


Finally, our website crew put in many long and hard hours to revamp the BHRobotics Website.
Please take a look around. We made the decision to make the website entirely open source, so we encourage other teams to draw inspiration from what we have done.

[msimon785]

Website Screenshot:

[Akash Rastogi]

Matt, it was awesome seeing this robot come together through the season, especially when you had to overcome some machining hurdles.

Best of luck to you all this season.

[msimon785]

Thanks, Akash!
Best of luck to the Atomic Dragons as well!

[rsisk]

Looking awesome! Can't wait to see you in LA, or maybe even before that!

[MichaelBick]

It was so awesome working closely with you guys this year. We can't wait to do it again next year. Also, the new website is awesome!

[msimon785]

Thanks, Michael. It was a pleasure on my part and we'd love to do it again next year.
And for those who care, I forgot to mention drivetrain specs.
Almost 19 fps 6WD center-dropped with 8" Plaction wheels (roughtop)

[otherguy]

Originally Posted by msimon785

As always, our electronics are fully modular, such that all of the boards can be removed in the course of less than a minute. We utilize sliding rails in which the E-boards slide and clip in. All onboard wiring is run through industry standard WAGO mass connectors which allow for a single unplug to separate all of the actuators from the PDB.

Would you mind sharing some more detailed shots of your electronics/wiring setup? It sounds interesting.

[mdiradoorian]

Definitely a nice looking robot cannot wait until LA regional to see it up close and in a match.

Best of luck to Team 1515 at the LA regional

[AllenGregoryIV]

Originally Posted by otherguy

Would you mind sharing some more detailed shots of your electronics/wiring setup? It sounds interesting.

I second that, your controls sound fantastic. Any chance of a white paper on how you are using the touch screen?

[msimon785]

Working on getting a few pictures of the control system. I'm not sure if I can get them today, but I will definitely have some come monday.