Nitro - 30lb Combat Robot
Fig. 01: Summary of the CAD development. Image 1 shows the initial concept with general component layout. Image 2 highlights an alternative "path" for the project, utilising six wheels rather than two to increase drive mobility when inverted, which was eventually pushed aside due to weight issues. Image 3 shows the final structure of the machine with weapon and wheel shafts. Image 4 highlights the final CAD assembly which was then manufactured. Shown in fig. 02, is PLA 3D printed central rail prototypes, this allowed me to check belt tension and drive layout before committing to the final CNC machined frame components.
The image on the left shows the ablative side armour after a section has been 3D printed in flexible TPU plastic to maximise shock absorbtion and toughness while being easy to replace during competition. In the middle, all of the lasercut wear plate steel profiles painted black ready for assembly. On the right hand side, a sub-assembly for the 4kW main weapon motor, due to the forces seen during combat, this brushless inrunner is supported at either end and the front 8mm shaft has additional bearing support inside the aluminium housing.
The left image shows the split clamp style front weapon shaft retainment. This allows for the entire weapon assembly to be removed from the machine to be worked on without so much chassis disassembly. The images on the right highlight the wheel shafts, which key into the chassis rails and are held in place by nuts, allowing for easy repair if the wheels are hit and break away from the chassis.
Main chassis build. The purple anodised components are anodised, CNC machined aluminium. These are designed to create the main structure of the machine, while the more replaceable aluminium and steel lasercut panels fasten onto them. Everything on this build is designed to be easily accessable and replacable, including the main drum weapon and the internal motors.
The complete robot during initial testing at it's first competition in The Netherlands.
Action shots taken during the competition! Credit to Euan Mutch.