RIT VEXU Robotics

Goal - Design, build, and code 2 robots to compete in the VEXU 2023 Over Under Competition.

Tenure - September 2023 to June 2024

Role:

Mechanical Team Designer & Builder - Responsible for designing and building the robot from conception in Solidworks using VEX standardized parts.

Create a 15x15x15in robot capable of both playing defensively and offensively in the VEXU Over Under competition.
Create a 24x24x24in robot capable of launching "tri-balls" and work with field loaders.
Work with software team to develop a robot capable of scoring large amount of points in the 1 minute 30 second autonomous phase.
Develop a climbing mechanism capable of lifting the robots off the ground in a efficient manner to maximize points scored.

CAD: SolidWorks.
Manufacturing: Molding, 3D printing, Soldering, Drill press, Laser cutting.
Skills/Developed: >Low-profile mechanism design, drivetrain–intake–climb system integration, rapid prototyping and iteration, failure analysis and redesign, strategic competition-focused design, collaboration with software and drive teams.

Co-developed a vertical bar winch-based climbing system capable of achieving C-tier elevation, using a one-way claw latch and spring-assisted deployment for reliable bar engagement.
Designed the mechanism around a low-profile 15in chassis that allowed the robot to drive under the goal while still supporting full elevation capability.
Integrated a power take-off (PTO) system from the drivetrain to supply torque for climbing while conserving motor allocation and space.
Engineered a banded-out, double-acting pneumatic actuation to maintain elevation post-match and minimize piston stress.
Learned/Developed: System integration under tight size constraints; balancing torque and mechanical stability; pneumatic control; strategic optimization for competition scoring tiers.

Worked on design and manufacturing of molded wheels used for greater traction and more mobility on the robots.
Developed a custom 3D-printed motor cap system for compact motor stacking and rapid servicing, increasing drivetrain rigidity and modularity.
Implemented a sled-assisted barrier traversal system, allowing smooth crossing while maintaining traction and chassis stability.
Optimized motor positioning and gear spacing to fit within the 15in frame perimeter while supporting high-speed field traversal.
Learned/Developed: CAD packaging for multi-motor layouts; rapid prototyping using VEX components; iterative testing for traction optimization; drive control coordination with software subteam.

Designed and tuned a dual-motor catapult mechanism for the 24in competition robot, capable of launching triballs across the field with consistent trajectory control.
Integrated elastic energy storage and release optimization using high-tension rubber bands and ratcheted release systems for rapid reloading during autonomous periods.
Collaborated with the programming team to synchronize catapult firing and indexing with intake and autonomous routines, improving scoring precision.
Performed iterative launch angle and compression testing to maximize scoring consistency while reducing cycle times between shots.
Learned/Developed: Mechanical energy storage principles; iterative prototype tuning; cross-team software integration; precision adjustment for high-speed competition mechanisms.