01 Background

RBE1001: Introduction to Robotics at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (2013). This course introduced the fundamental concepts of robotics including sensors, actuators, feedback control, and system integration. Using Arduino and Vex controllers, we built robots to compete in the Savage Soccer competition.

02 Photos

Photos from the robotics lab and competition.

This was our first experience using the Laser Cutter, and we were extraordinarily pleased with the results, we continued to develop our robot entirely out of acrylic.

First Laser Cut — All Acrylic Design

Mid-Construction of the RBE 1001 Final Lab Robot. There are 4 A-Frames. Wheels are in between the A-Frames to be protected.

Mid-Construction — 4 A-Frame Design

First Tests for Savage Soccer

Raising the "Wrist" of the Robot

"Shoulder" Lifting Blocks to Rear Storage

Arm Stored for Compact Movement

Storage location for the Arduino, Vex-Shield, Motor Drivers, and Vex Batteries was stored in the lower part of the A-Frame. Weight was centered low, which helped it not tip over. It also was tucked out of the way from moving objects and blocks (protected and non-interfering).

Electronics in Lower A-Frame

Collecting Blocks Down the Chute

Storage Holding 7+ Blocks

Savage Soccer - Students are tasked with running their robot for 30-45 seconds in autonomous mode, followed by 2 minutes of Teleoperation. Team to collect most blocks wins!

Savage Soccer Competition

Another View of the Savage Soccer Field