Minibot Prototype

Define

The goals of this project are to:

• Create a controllable drive base

• The drivebase should have two motors/gearboxes and wiring for all electrical components

• A remote controller should be used for driver input

Concept and CAD Design

We designed two drivebases (12x24 and 18x18) and layed out what dimensions we would cut wood to in order to fit these geometries.

We were able to re-utilize work from the Drive Train Test Board in order to drill appropriately sized holes for bearings and the gearbox plate.

Testing and Building

Woodworking

To determine the best drivebase geometry, we created two drivebase frames: an 18x18in frame, and a 12x24in frame. Each frame was made from 4 segments of 2-by-4's and a plywood sheet for the belly.

Unexpected things happen! During the construction of our 12x24 drivebase, we were attempting to use the drill press to make a bearing hole when a piece of the wood snapped off! We glued it back on using wood glue.

There were also some issues with aligning the screws with the motor plate. The holes did not end up being drilled correctly, and required us to re-drill.

Electronics

During the machining process, we began working on code for our motors. To meet our goals for this project, we need a drivebase with a means for controlling it. As such, we coded software that uses a remote controller to determine direction and velocity of a motor.

In order to attach the electronics to our drivebase, we needed to drill holes at planned locations for the electronics.

Final Product

This project is not complete yet. It will be finished in the second semester.