Robot Design Proposal

Robot Design Proposal

Our robot design is inspired in the Mars Rover Program developed by NASA for the Spirit and Opportunity missions due to the similarities we see in this challenge.

To satisfy the robot specifications we investigated and evaluated alternatives for the main robot structure, suspension, drive train, sensors and tools that will accomplish the challenge.

Robot Structure

The main component is the Rocker-Bogie suspension system. It uses six motorized wheels (6X6), and allows the rover to climb over obstacles, that are up to twice the wheel’s diameter in size while keeping all six wheels on the ground. This gives the robot high stability over the terrain.

One of its disadvantages is the difficulty to turn compared to traditional two wheels robots, but gives more traction and all-terrain capabilities. This disadvantage could be reduced using a LEGO compass sensor.

The traction system will use two or four motors, connecting two or the three wheels of the same side together. The final decision will depend on the testing phase of the prototype.

Sensors

The challenge is designed to make the robot navigate in autonomous mode, so the sensors are really important for the success of the task. The robot will be equipped with:

• LEGO compass to position and make exact turns. To be mounted in the center of the robot.
• Touch sensor to detect obstacles and align itself based on the field. They are mounted in the front and back of the robot.
• Light or color sensor to follow lines or detect colored objects in the field. Mounted in the front.
• Ultrasound sensor to detect longer distance objects and detect the right track or map the field. To be mounted in the front of the robot connected to a motor to rotate and scan the field.

Tools

The robot tools enable the robot to accomplish the tasks that are part of the challenge. As the challenge details are not defined yet, our design permit the attachment of one or more motors in the structure.

Camera

The camera is going to be mounted in the upper side in the front of the robot to have a good visibility.