Whirligig mini sumo robot- No microcontroller!
This is my attempt at making a mini sumo for the NRC that uses circuitry instead of an expensive microcontroller. Each switch is wired to reverse one wheel. When triggered, the robot switches from defense, or spinning, to offence, where it runs against the opponent.
Design elements:
-Bottom panel’s height can be adjusted. This allows the skirt to be moved close to the floor, preventing opponents from wedging under
-To save cost even the battery connectors were homemade. By taking apart two used 9-volt batteries, I was able to solder wires to the top pieces and use them as connectors
-Total price: 15$, way better then buying a kit
-Super sticky wheels are made using foam tape covered with exercise band material. The foam tape compresses to allow for more surface contact, and the band’s rubber sticks to the floor.
competes in the National Robotics Challenge mini sumo contest
- Actuators / output devices: gm3 solorbotics gearmotors
- Sensors / input devices: analog touch sensors.
- Target environment: mini sumo ring (4' diameter circle, plywood surface)