C.A.D.
The CAD program we use helps us manage many different parts of the robot and produces a clean model of the robot for the rest of the team. CAD is there to help design an efficient and functional robot that can accomplish the goal for that year. Our CAD is able to work with our team’s 3D printers and CNC router to make our more advanced robot parts. Our CAD of the current year’s robot makes it easy for us to test new ideas without having to manufacture all of the parts we would need. This way we can try new ideas without using up materials. The current robot’s CAD is also used as a blueprint by the team in order to build our robot.
Programming
Without Programming, the robot would not be able to function properly. Programming is defined as providing a computer or other machine with coded instructions for the automatic performance of a task. Programming is responsible for creating autonomous modes, taking inputs from controllers, and running different subsystems when appropriate.
Autonomous happens during the beginning of every match. Before the robot drivers are allowed to touch the controls, there is a set amount of time that your robot can score points without human interaction. Teams accomplish this with code that they write prior to competition that allows the robot to function on its own during the autonomous session of every match. A successful autonomous period can give teams the points they need to win the match.
Electrical/PNEUMATICs
Electronics involve connecting the major electrical components of the robot (PDP, VRM, PCM, talons) with different gauges of wire to allow information and power to flow throughout the robot. Pneumatics puts compressed air to practical use by moving machinery used on the robot. Pneumatics use energy made from the controlled release of compressed air and turn it into movement. In 2019, we used pneumatics to raise and lower the arm of our robot.
Fabrication
Fabrication is the mechanical component of robot creation. Fabrication is defined as the process of making something from raw materials rather than from ready-made components. In our shop, fabrication consists of measuring, marking, cutting, drilling, and assembling the mechanical components of the robot. We have many tools and machines that we use in order to assemble our robot such as drills, lathes, and the CNC router. Fabrication often collaborates with CAD, which provides 3D printed parts for the assembly of the robot.
STRATEGY/scouting
Scouting is defined as the gathering and processing of data for the development of the strategy between alliance teammates.
During competitions three teams are put on an alliance, red or blue. The two other teams on your alliance are your alliance teammates. You must come up with a strategy as an alliance in order to beat the other team during the match, keeping in mind both your alliance’s strengths and weaknesses as well as the other alliance’s strengths and weaknesses. Scouting becomes important when determining your alliance teammates strengths and weaknesses as well as the other alliance’s strengths and weaknesses. This ultimately helps your team formulate a strategy for every match.
System Meltdown 