Marshmallow/Candy Robot
Since 2017 our marshmallow/candy launching robot, more commonly referred to as Candy Bot, has been at many events spreading joy and STEM to people of all ages. You can learn more about candy bot such as how it works, what events we brought candy bot too and more below.
How Does The Bot Work?
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When creating the first version of candy bot, we used our 2017 competition robot. We removed the robot's gear intake to make room for the cannons. To create the cannons, we used lawn sprinkler valves to control the airflow, and black iron pipes to store the air pressure. This prevents air pressure from being stored in the PVC pipes. These pipes held and shot the marshmallows. All of these different systems use pneumatics which was also something we added to the robot.
Toilet paper was used to make a seal against the walls of the PVC pipe because without it the air would escape through the marshmallows and the marshmallows would fall into the cannons. To drive the robot and control the cannons, we programmed the robot using Java. |
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After a successful year with the first version, we decided that the robot needed upgrades. We took apart the drive train and cut it down so it was smaller. This meant instead of the normal 6 wheel drive train, it was now a 4 wheel drive train. The toilet paper was replaced with fabric and the fabric was attached to the robot with string. The cannons were given a better mounting system which allowed us to add a third cannon. We also made some changes so that marshmallows or candy can be launched about 8 feet. We improved the battery mounting so we can easily replace the robot's battery when needed.
The PVC pipes were spray painted red to match our team's color and angry eyes were added. We replaced most of the FRC electronics in favor of using a transmitter and receiver to control the robot. Bumpers were later added for safety.
The PVC pipes were spray painted red to match our team's color and angry eyes were added. We replaced most of the FRC electronics in favor of using a transmitter and receiver to control the robot. Bumpers were later added for safety.
Past Events
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We have brought Candy Bot to many local events and team events such as our summer programs and more! Below a list of events we have done in the pass. To get updates on where Candy bot might be next, follow us on Twitter @frc6201 and Instagram @frc6201
Past events:
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