Testing the prototype is an integral part in the development process to ensure that the suction cup design properly meets the requirements provided by the Suction Cup Rubric. Specifically, the kwadropus team will test the prototypes' ability to attach and detach from surfaces without user input. Additionally, using the ultrasonic sensors, the system should be able to indicate when a seal is made between the surface and the cup.
To ensure that all of the specifications are met by the prototype, the kwadropus team identified all the criteria and benchmarks that will be recorded during testing. The tested metrics are split into two groups: qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data are descriptions made during testing, while quantitative data relies on collected numbers and calculations.
The prototype did very well hold flat surfaces, averaging 6.5 minutes of holding time. It also did very well when holding curved surfaces, averaging around 5 minutes of holding time. Unfortunately, the holding time of the object dropped severely when dust was applied. This is due to the small air pockets created by the dust particles, disrupting the airtight seal of the suction cup.
The prototype effectively attached and detached from the 1kg cylinder when an electrical signal is sent using a push button.
The Prototype did very well attaching to nearby objects in sound-controlled environments. When a seal is formed between the cup and the surface, the Green LED lights up, indicating that the seal was successfully formed.
Including the battery, the entire system weighs approximately 2.1 kilograms. However, because there are 8 arms on the robot, the suction arm system will take up much more weight. One way to possibly reduce the weight of this system is to use a manifold solenoid network while only using one vacuum pump.
After successfully completing the testing stage, it is clear that several adjustments need to be made. Although the system works exceptionally well on clean surfaces, it fails on dusty surfaces. Testing applications such as oils and liquids may provide a solution however, residue will need to be kept in mind. Additionally, the current VEX ultrasonic range finders are large and not as accurate in noisier environments such as the GHS Suction Arm Team's CDR at Passaic High School in New Jersey. The GHS Suction arm team will research other ultrasonic sensors and lidars that might be smaller and more accurate.