Category Archives: Mechanical Design

Overhead Camera

Our robot also uses data from another source: an overhead camera suspended above the intersection of the course. The data from this camera is only used when the car is in the intersection. It uses image processing to detect the … Continue reading

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Overview

This is a diagram showing all the physical components of our robot. Click for enlarged view.

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PCB

The PCB on our robot performs several functions. It supplies power to all parts of the robot and also incorperates the H-bridge motor control circuitry. Our robot requires 3 different voltage levels to operate.  The microcontroller runs on 3.3V, The … Continue reading

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Wheels & Motor

The wheels and motor for our robot were taken from a RC car. This was chosen because the motor was already connected to drive both rear wheels. Additionally the front wheels were already attached to hinged mounts, allowing for easy connection to the … Continue reading

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Sensors

Our robot incorporates three main sensor systems: the laser / webcam triangulation sensor, the IR rangefinders and the IR reflectance sensor. The primary sensor consists of a class 3 green laser mounted on the front of the robot. The reason for choosing a green … Continue reading

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Chassis

The chassis of our robot is a  four wheeled design. The rear wheels are used for propulsion, while the front wheels are for steering. This design was chosen over a differential drive system because it  allows for greater speed. The propulsion motor … Continue reading

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