Day 12: Prototyping, Manufacturing & Design Progress

Prototyping

Today, the prototyping group continued to work on prototypes for the Minibot.  Their prototype successfully latches onto the bar, but does not have the proper weight distribution and contact with the pole to climb.  With weight added to balance it, it can climb a few inches before popping off of the pole.  More tweaking will happen tomorrow to try to improve the design.

Minibot Prototype

The Minibot Climbing the Pole

Manufacturing

The machining for the frame side rails was completed today.

Completed Side Rails

Furthermore, a separate team worked hard to cut and mill the bumper mount pieces.  These should be completed tomorrow.

Half completed bumper mount pieces.

Design

The design team was working on the arm today.  Progress is being made on the design.

Current concept for the tube grabber.

The design team also finalized the mounting of the motor to pivot the arm within the carriage.  The whole motor is mounted to a plate that slides vertically to tension the chain.

Motor mount in the carriage.