Battle Bots | Tech Wars
TECH WARS
As a part of McAllen ISD, in McAllen, TX, the robotic competition "Tech Wars" hosted drone racing, a battle bot competition, and an unmanned vehicle competition. The Tech Wars event allowed students from McAllen ISD to compete in multiple competitions to show off their skills in problem solving and creation.
You may find more information about Tech Wars through the following articles: "SCHOOL DISTRICT IN TEXAS HOLDS "TECH WARS" ROBOTIC COMPETITION FOR STUDENTS" by Auvsi News and
"Students take to the field for robot, drone contest" by Mark Moreno.
BATTLE BOTS COMPETION (2017 -2018)
In the 2017-2018 Tech Wars Battle Bot Competition, I collaborated with three fellow students to undertake the exciting challenge of designing, building, and battling a fully functional battle bot. As a team, our primary focus centered on the design and fabrication aspects, with a key emphasis on incorporating failsafe measures to withstand the formidable opponents we anticipated encountering.
The foundation of our design revolved around a robust 4-wheel drive system, where each wheel boasted independent motors. This configuration ensured optimal maneuverability, allowing Rampage to swiftly navigate the arena while providing a significant advantage during combat. To fortify Rampage against potential damage, we incorporated shock-absorbing padding and strategically positioned bumpers. These protective measures were instrumental in safeguarding the internal components of our bot, enabling Rampage to withstand the impacts of fierce battles and sustain its functionality. One notable highlight of our design was the consideration given to operating Rampage even in the event of it being flipped over. We implemented a low center of gravity, enhancing the bot's stability and making it considerably challenging for opponents to exploit this vulnerability during the competition. This feature served as a testament to our comprehensive approach, ensuring Rampage remained competitive and resilient in various scenarios. Throughout the process, we employed a combination of engineering principles, creativity, and practical problem-solving to optimize Rampage's performance. Our commitment to meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and continuous iteration allowed us to fine-tune our design, ensuring that our battle bot was formidable and had a competitive edge. Participating in the Tech Wars Battle Bot Competition not only tested our technical abilities but also strengthened our teamwork, collaboration, and resilience.
The experience instilled in us a deep appreciation for the integration of engineering, strategy, and innovation in a real-world competitive environment. By engaging in this exciting endeavor, we gained invaluable hands-on experience in robotics, fabrication, and strategic thinking. The Tech Wars Battle Bot Competition provided a platform for us to apply theoretical knowledge and unleash our creativity while pushing the boundaries of what our battle bot, Rampage, could achieve. As we reflect on our journey, we are immensely proud of the efforts invested in designing and building Rampage. The competition served as a platform for us to demonstrate our engineering prowess, adaptability, and unwavering determination. It remains a standout experience that solidified our passion for robotics and inspired us to pursue further opportunities where we can continue to explore the intersection of engineering and competition.
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