VEX Design
Problem 3
Hazardous Waste Disposal
Scenario
You are part of a team that has been
tasked with cleaning up a toxic waste
site. As this is a large job the
government has asked that you build
a prototype robot to demonstrate why
your group should be awarded the
large and lucrative clean-up contract.
You will use your knowledge of
robotics to build and operate a robot
that will help cleanup the toxic site by
the most efficient (fastest) means.
Problem
Design and build a remotely controlled robot that can collect various
objects scattered over a large play-field and deposit them in a goal. At the
end of a timed round the robot scoring the most points will be deemed the
WINNER.
Materials and Restrictions
You will use the VEX robotics kit and any
additional materials your group can provide.
The play field will have 2 levels therefore your
robot should be able to climb.
The goal areas will be either small buckets
approximately 3 inches high on all sides or an
area on the elevated platform; in order to score
any points you must deposit the items in the
bucket.
Hazardous Waste (Point Values)
Pop can (2 pts)
Ping Pong Ball (1 pt)
2 x 4 x 12 piece of
lumber (10 pts)
Research Questions
1. In order to use the SERVO motor module, which control setup do you
feel is better, analogue (1-4) or digital (5-6)? Why?
2. Why is a MOTOR module not well-suited to delicate applications?
3. Explain the difference between tank and arcade style controls, making
reference to the operation of the motors and direction.
4. Why would a robot be well-suited to garbage collection or hazardous
waste cleanup?
5. Explain why the small wheels may not be the best option for this
challenge.
Example (Trash Masters Spring 2010)
Contaminated Area (Play field)
Team 1 Start
Team 2 Goal
Common
Incinerator*
Team 2 Start
Team 1 Goal
The area in orange will be 2” off the ground.
*This area will be located directly on the raised platform without higher sides.
Assessment
Your group will complete a standard design rubric for this challenge and be
evaluated using the design challenge rubric.
Your robot must be completely disassembled with all parts returned to their
respective kits. Your final submission will not be counted until this has
been verified by Mr Scott.
Result Points Breakdown
1st Place (most points) or
unique/original design
5 pts
Robot can successfully navigate both
levels and deposit an item in the goal.
4 pts
Robot can either successfully navigate
both levels or deposit an item in the
goal.
3 pts
Robot can collect items on lower level
both cannot climb or deposit in goal.
2 pts
Robot can drive without intervention.
1 pt
No attempt
0 pts