Controls
Controls is a sub-team of Programming that has the responsibility of creating the interface used to let the driver and operator communicate to and control the robot. Controls also must keep in check with the other build teams so we know about new changes in the robot design or robot abilities so we incorporate these new changes into the control plan. We create design and wiring layouts for the control panel and work with our head drivers and operators to find methods that will make it easier for them to control the robot during the competition. We conduct research on the numerous types of sensors that we can incorporate into our robot design and learn about how each one works and think about which one would be best used to give our robot and alliance the advantage in the competition. Controls also has the job of working with the Electrical team to setup and wire these many sensors to the robot to allow feedback to the operating panel and driver station.
What has been accomplished so far this year:
- Read FIRST manuals applying to the game, controls, and programming
- Researched information about sensors listed in the FIRST manuals and found in the kit of parts.
- Researched for and wired light sensors to detect when the robot is in possession of a ball.
- Came up with and revised controller and button layouts as well as the layout of the driver station.
- Found a suitable case for the driver station and are currently in progress of modifying it to suit the needs for the operating system.
- Got the 2009 robot operating again on the old controller.
- Worked with mentors and heads of other sub-teams to create a list of requirements for this year’s robot.
- Worked with electrical and programming to better understand and find out how to use the new cypress unit to fit the needs for this year’s drivers station and control system.
- Finish wiring the controls case/ driver station.
- Install the sensors on the robot when completed.
- Learn how to correctly wire the sensors and switches to the cypress unit.
