Mechanical: Today we worked
with Inventor to creating drawings. Each drawing shows the dimensions of a
specific part, enabling a machinist to make the piece. For members who missed
the meeting, take a look at this PowerPoint
Nov 30, 2006
Electrical: Today we learned how to use MPLab to program the robot
Nov 27, 2006
Electrical: We were introduced to the basics of the robot program.
Nov 20, 2006
Electrical: We learned about State Machines and how the CMU camera works.
Nov 17, 2006
Mechanical: Today we learned to
use Inventor to create assemblies by putting multiple components in one file,
and placing constrains on them to simulate how we would mount the parts. For
members who missed the meeting, take a look at this PowerPoint
Nov 16, 2006
Electrical: We continued programming Vex robots using Easy C
Nov 13, 2006
Electrical: We learned how the robot control program works. Here is the PowerPoint we used.
Nov 9, 2006
Electrical: We continued
programming Vex robots using Easy C
Nov 6, 2006
Engineering: As the very last
Engineering training, we learned about what pneumatics are, and how they work
through this PowerPoint. Then we experimented
with solenoids and cylinders, learning how to properly connect it.
Nov 3, 2006
Mechanical: Today we were
introduced to the Autodesk Inventor program. Using Inventor, we modeled
machined metal plates, learning to make sketches, extrusions and holes. For
members who missed the meeting, take a look at this PowerPoint
Nov 2, 2006
Electrical: We continued
programming Vex robots using Easy C
Oct 30, 2006
Engineering: Today we learned about motors. We went over the different motors FIRST gives us each year, as well as how to optomize each motor. Here is the Motors PowerPoint we used.
Oct 23, 2006
Engineering: We learned how to properly wire the robot. First we used a PowerPoint to explain power distribution. Then we had everyone partner up and gave each pair a set of alligator clips and pictures of electrical components. Their tasks was to use the alligator clips to properly wire all the electrical components.
Oct 20, 2006
Mechanical: Today we learned how to use woodshop tools such as the chop saw and the bandsaw. We first went over proper woodshop safety. Then everyone got a chance to cut a piece of Bosch and 1x1 aluminum tubing on the bandsaw and chop saw.
Oct 19, 2006
Electrical: We programed Vex robots to follow lines or react to touch sensors using Easy C.
Oct 18, 2006
Media: Today we brainstormed different ideas for the Safety Animation.
Oct 16, 2006
Engineering: Today we learned two methods to make an electrical connection between two wires; soldering and wiring.
Oct 13, 2006
Mechanical: Today's Mechanical training started with a short PowerPoint showing examples of different types of manipulators. During the second half of the training we simulated a competition. First, we divided the members into 2 teams. Each team was given a long piece of PVC, 1 connector and 2 short pieces of PVC. Using these materials each team built a PVC arm that would be able to pick up "tetras" and cap them on goals. Next, each team volunteered 2 people, one to be the "driver" and the other to be the "robot". The "robot" holds the PVC arm, and is blindfolded, while the "driver" instructs the "robot" on what to do.
Oct 12, 2006
Electrical: First, we learned basic programming with if/else statements and switch statements (powerpoint). Then, we worked on line following code for the VEX.
Oct 6, 2006
Mechanical: Today we learned about chassis and drivetrain designs. We went over the importance of cross bracing, and then applied our knowledge by building towers out of spaghetti and hot glue. We also showed explained the difference between 4-wheel and 6-wheel drivetrains, and then showed a video of more complex drivetrains.
Oct 5, 2006
Electrical: Today was a mandatory meeting for everyone interested in programming. We went over programming standards, which includes how to organize code, and proper commenting.
Oct 4, 2006
Media: We went over the basics of how to use 3D Studio Max, including making basic shapes, viewing objects and creating textures.
Oct 2, 2006
Engineering: Today we talked about key Electrical Parts that both Mechanical and Electrical needs to know about. This includes the Robot Controller (RC), Operator Interface (OI), speed controllers, spikes, breaker panels, and batteries. Here is a Powerpoint that outlines some of the parts.
Sept 29, 2006
Mechanical: Today was the second part of the Tools training, which went into more specialized tools that only the Mechanical Division will use. This included how to measure using calipers, cutting with a hacksaw, deburring with a file or duburr tool, and breaking chain with either the chain breaker or roll pin punch. Information about most of these tools can be found in this powerpoint.
Sept 27, 2006
Media: Today we had both a Media training and Electrical training. At today's Media training, we viewed some past animations and learned about what we are going to do in the future.
Electrical: Due to the interest in joining both media and electrical, we are moving Electrical Trainings from Wednesdays to Thursdays. From now on, all electrical trainings will be on THURSDAYS. Today's electrical training went over the basics of Programming.
Sept 25, 2006
Engineering: Today was our first Engineering (mechanical and electrical) training! Members were given a hands-on experience while learning how to use allen keys, wrenches, ratchets, power drills, and the drill press. For those of you who missed the training, you can find information about the tools in this powerpoint or this Word document posted on Chief Delphi
