Robotics

Problem:

 Our team was challenged to design, build, and program a variety of robots capable of completing real-world engineering tasks. These challenges included navigating obstacle courses, following lines autonomously, detecting and avoiding obstacles with sensors, locating victims using AI-assisted technology, and developing automated systems with VEX IQ robotics. Throughout the project, we combined mechanical design, programming, and problem-solving skills to create robots that could operate accurately and independently.    

Prototypes & Development:

We began by assembling basic robot prototypes to learn how the motors, sensors, and control systems worked together. Early testing focused on experimenting with different programming strategies, sensor placement, and driving methods to improve movement and navigation. We also explored AI functionality and autonomous behaviors before implementing these features into our final designs. 

Design & Testing:

Our final robots incorporated multiple motors and a variety of sensors, including ultrasonic, bumper, line-tracking, and AI vision sensors. Each robot was programmed to complete specific objectives such as following lines, avoiding obstacles, navigating complex courses, locating targets, and performing autonomous movements. Through continuous testing, we refined the programming, corrected wiring and motor configurations, and optimized sensor performance to improve both accuracy and reliability.  Our group had five robots to complete.  For the VexIQ Robot which was in charge of making slime autonomously.  In the beginning stage of building, we had trouble building at first because we didn't know where to start so we decided to take inspiration on the  handbook that was given to us.  Later during the building process we gained inspiration on different teams and started from scratch by first looking at components on how to pour and spin.  Through understanding the mechanisms we started to grow our build by this.  Then we moved onto coding.  During the coding process we learned how to add the motors so the program can recognize each one.  An issue we face with programming was that the first bowl that was attached to the motor would turn the opposite way.  As a result through trouble shooting we were able to fix the issue. With the Zumi Robot, it was already built so we gained guidance through TA's and students, as a result we successfully completed the Zumi Robot.  For the Tamiya Robot, it took a bunch of trials and errors specifically through the electrical and coding parts.  The coding and electrical parts intertwined with each other causing issues for example at time our electrical imports were incorrect impacting the code and at times it was vice versa.  Through the problems we faced, we used ChatGPT and Claude however  they were unsuccessful.  Therefore, we asked around for advice and seeked help from TA's.  The help through the TA's taught us how to gain a better knowledge on coding and electrical work pushing for the robot to become successful

Evaluation & Improvements:

After multiple rounds of testing, we improved our robots by refining the code, repositioning sensors, and making mechanical adjustments to enhance movement and consistency. Each design iteration helped increase navigation accuracy, response time, and overall performance. This project strengthened our understanding of robotics, automation, engineering design, and programming while demonstrating the importance of testing, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in the engineering process.