"Battlebots." What is it?

Battlebots is a tounament that began as Robot Wars in 1994. Marc Thorpe is credited with fathering the sport of robotic combat, his inspiration came from his experimental attempts to control a vacuum cleaner remotely. It has now evolved into an international sport with thousands of participants in a wide variety of weight classes. Builders push the mechanical and electrical components literally to the breaking point to make these amazing machines hammer, flip, spin, and otherwise incapacitate one another in dramatic fashion. It only took one episode for me to realize that this innovative new sport was something that I was driven to participate in. Building a robot takes a very unique set of skills. From a keen understanding of electrical properties to advanced physics, there is a wealth of knowledge needed to create a successful battlebot.

Why Participate?

Since I first observed the tournament, I was immediately convinced that this was something I wanted to be a part of. Learning new skills and experiencing new opporutnities is what motivates me most. I have spent thousands of dollars to date on this robot and will likely continue spending thousands more on this and others. My motivation is simple- to innovate. There are other benefits such as meeting some of the most interesting people, and getting on television, but my true motivation remains the same. I know of no other activity that better combines my interests in electronics, mechanics, design, and invention. Since starting this project I have learned new skills and concepts in advanced physics, new electronic methods, new ways to measure forces and a wide variety of computer programming and CAD development. Systems I have now worked with include pneumatics and hydraulics, metallurgy, and impact forces and energy storage. As this sport continues to grow, so does my knowledge of the many factors involved. So far, the learning has never slowed down. Every time I come up with a new idea, it leads to a whole new set of challenges to ponder. As far as I'm concerned, it's time & money well spent.

What now?

I have participated in the last three consecutive tournaments in San Francisco. So far, my robot has survived in rebuildable shape. I plan on upgrading some of the components to more advanced materials such as kevlar and carbon fiber. The drive and spinner motors will be upgraded, and various metal grades will be improved. A new pneumatics computer utilizing surface mount components is in the works, as well as an infrared reflective sensor in the tail. The tail will be upgraded to a titanium alloy and the profile lowered to maximize the gain in strength. The spike weapon will be gear actuated for a more powerful and longer swing that should dramatically increase the damage potential. Building this robot is a never ending process of refinement. As technology improves so will the robot. Win or lose, I will always enjoy the game.