MIT's sophomore year Mechanical Engineering capstone course, Design and Manufacturing 1, teaches the application of theoretical mechanical principles to real-world interactions. The course operates as an annual robotics competition, where students must individually conceptualize, design, and fabricate a game-ready robot in 13 weeks.
I scored points in the competition by picking up irregularly shaped objects ("artifacts") from the ground and depositing them onto two stepped shelves.
mechanism: drivetrain
The differential belted two-wheel drivetrain maintains consistent traction and enables easy linear and rotational maneuvering around the game board.
mechanism: intake
The intake reliably collects and deposits artifacts of multiple sizes and weights, also serving as a secure hopper when the robot is in motion.
mechanism: four-bar lift
The four-bar lift precisely controls the height and depth of the intake module, allowing it to interact with artifacts on the ground and on the shelves.
