Instructions Sentry Challenge
In robotics, it is important to understand how well we can control the accuracy of the robots we build. We will be using both a controller and autonomous mode to control our robot through the below Sentry Challenge course. You have been introduced to the "Four Pillars of Computational Thinking" to help you design your code in the most efficient manner. You will also need to collect data and create solutions to help account for the possible "accumulation of errors" in your robot as it tries to complete the Sentry Challenge.
Requirement for the Challenge
To complete the challenge, your robot must
* Complete 2 cycles around the factory inside the parameter fence (see attached diagram) autonomously
* Complete 2 cycles around the factory inside the parameter fence via the driver control
* No part of the robot may touch the fence or corner posts marking the boundary of the factory
* NOTE: the starting position of the robot can be any point you have chosen within the parameter fence
*A diagram of the challenge course is shown above:
How to be succesful in this challenge
To succeed, I’ll focus on coding my robot with precise movements by carefully calculating distances and turns. I’ll create a step-by-step program that ensures the robot moves accurately and adjusts it after testing to fix any errors. For the driver control, I’ll practice handling the robot until I can navigate smoothly and consistently without mistakes. Repeated testing will help me spot and solve problems like turning too wide or missing the path. By refining both my code and my driving, I’ll make sure the robot is fully prepared to complete the course perfectly.
Progress: 100% complete
First step :Building the body
I’ll build the body of my robot using 6 gears and 2 motors. The motors will drive the wheels, and I’ll arrange the gears to balance speed and torque, making sure the robot can move smoothly and handle sharp turns. The base will be stable and compact to avoid hitting the fence. I’ll carefully secure all parts so nothing comes loose during operation, and I’ll test the build to ensure everything works properly before moving to the next step.
Progress: 100% completed
Second step: the wheels
For the second step, I’ll attach the wheels to the motors. I’ll align the wheels with the motor shafts and make sure they are securely in place. It’s important that the wheels spin freely and are properly aligned with the body. After attaching the wheels, I’ll test the robot to make sure it moves as expected before moving on to the next step.
Progress: 100% completed
Second step: the brain
Next, I'll install the robot's brain and connect the wiring. I'll securely mount the control board in a stable position on the robot's body, protecting it from potential impacts. Then, I’ll connect the motors to the board using appropriate wires, ensuring the connections are firm. I’ll add the battery and organize the wiring neatly to avoid tangling or interference with moving parts. Finally, I’ll test battery and motor connections to confirm that the robot responds correctly to commands before proceeding to the next step.