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Engineering Notes

VEX Robotics

Technology ​Section

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Awesome

Features

Every Problem Has A Solution

Mecanum Wheels

 Using Mecanum Wheels can allow our vehicle move omnidirectional. However, Mecanum wheels on robot could hardly rotate at the same speed, deviating the robot’s translational locomotion from expectation

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PID Controller

By setting a V5 rotation sensor to record the rotation speed, rotation position and total rotations of the motor, the data of wheel state error could be measured and input to PID controller.

Finally, as parameters like Kp, Kd and Ki were tuned in accordance to different scenarios, the PID controller enabled our automatic program to constantly achieve high scores.

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How to

Build

Creating a good robot requires many processes

Construct

Every VEX season, we will get different theme topics and different tasks. The first step is always to seek inspiration. We will brainstorm ideas within the team, watch various kinds of videos, and even look to nature for ideas

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Design the blueprint

We start by creating each VEX part in SolidWorks, then try to assemble a simple model in the software to test its feasibility. If everyone agrees on the design, we move forward with building it in real life.

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Building the robot is crucial—not only does it need to perform the intended functions, but we also have to consider its balance, speed, weight, and how easy it is to repair if damaged during the competition.

Programme

When it comes to programming, we focus on coding the remote control and setting up the code for the autonomous part.

The basic idea behind the manual control code is to write a few functions that manage different parts of the robot. The code for controlling the robot’s movement is more complex since it involves both the movement style and speed.

 

For example, we need to define how fast the robot should move when the joystick is pushed forward. To handle this, we set up an infinite loop in the code that constantly monitors the joystick’s position. The degree to which the joystick is pushed forward, backward, or side to side determines the robot’s speed.

 

There are also safeguards in place, so if the joystick is accidentally bumped, it won’t affect the robot’s movement.

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Leadership & Friendship

In terms of leadership, I am really good at managing team members, selecting the right talent, and regulating the progress of projects.

 

One of my key strengths is my ability to create a harmonious environment where everyone feels valued and has a strong sense of belonging. This fosters high team cohesion, which has been a standout quality in every competition I’ve participated in.

 

Our team’s internal dynamics and morale are always exceptional, and I make sure that each member understands their role and feels genuinely connected to the group’s success. This positive atmosphere is what makes our team particularly strong.

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Great teams start with a vision that goes beyond any one individual

Jeffrey Lurie

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