Attitude Adjuster (Beetleweight)

[scott]

Lots of progress since the last update. I've been accepted for the Euros with Attitude Adjuster, so that gives a good deadline to work towards.

I cut some weapon bulkheads, using the tried and tested technique of the table saw and the mitre saw. I used a 20mm forstner bit to cut out some holes, and measure the distances this time instead of laser cutting a template.

IMG_0723.jpgIMG_0724.jpgIMG_0725.jpg

The biggest game changer is learning how to use the 3d printer at the hacker space. It only uses PLA, but that should be enough for what I want to use it for. I started with a battery holder for the 3S lipo.

IMG_0763.jpg

Then I made a holder for the electronics at the back of the robot, so they don't get in the way of the weapon. I also made a couple of armour mounts. I put in some threaded brass inserts using a soldering iron. I also put some brass inserts in the chassis to hold the weapon bulkheads on, and to hold the top armour.

IMG_0789.jpg

Today I finally got around to finalising the design for the axe and cutting some titanium! I used my Dremel to cut it initially, then finished with a hacksaw, and drilled with a cobalt bit. Going slow with lots of lubricant made it super easy, and there were some fun sparks. I now have an axe head.

IMG_0912.jpgIMG_0909.jpgIMG_0911.jpg

I weighed the robot chassis for the first time, the bolts and brackets must weigh more than I thought!

IMG_0897.jpg

Also considering going brushless. I tried the axe for the first time with a 300rpm gearmotor and was disappointed with the power. It was slow and couldn't self-right. I picked up some brushless DYS BE1806 motors that have already been converted with 1000rpm gearboxes, and I'm considering transplanting the 300rpm gearbox onto one of them. I also have a 500rpm motor as a last resort. I also picked up some cheap Afro ESCs on ebay and flashed them with SimonK.

When testing my flashing, disaster struck! I accidentally plugged an Afro in the wrong way, and promptly blew it up. The battery also doesn't seem too healthy (feels a bit swollen :/) so I'm planning to not use it again in case I burn my house down, and have ordered a replacement. I will now not do anything with a lipo unless I use the wiring harness that has a fuse and removable link.

Finally, been doing a lot of soldering. Added connections to all my ESCs so that I can't plug them in backwards. I also need to make my wiring loom A LOT smaller. There is not a lot of room for the wiring in there. I have about a month until the Euros and not much free time in September, so I will have to try and make time when I can!