TimberGryphon Combat Robot
Heavyweight Combat Robot Engineering Project
Robotics Combat Robot Mechanical Engineering Control Systems Competition
Role: Lead Engineer & Designer
Weight Class: Heavyweight (100+ lbs)
Competition: Robot Wars / BattleBots
Status: Active Development
Project Overview
TimberGryphon is a heavyweight combat robot designed for competitive robot combat sports. This project represents a significant engineering challenge, combining mechanical design, electronics, and control systems in an extreme environment where durability and performance are paramount.
Robot Specifications
- Weight: 100+ lbs (Heavyweight class)
- Drive System: 4-wheel drive with custom gearboxes
- Weapon: Horizontal spinning disc
- Armor: AR500 steel and HDPE composite
- Power: 24V LiPo battery system
- Control: 2.4GHz radio with fail-safe systems
Mechanical Design
The robot features a robust mechanical design optimized for combat environments:
Welded steel chassis with integrated weapon mount and drive pods
Custom planetary gearboxes with high-torque motors for maneuverability
Horizontal spinning disc with hardened steel tips for maximum impact
Multi-layer armor system with AR500 steel and shock-absorbing HDPE
Electronics Architecture
The electronic systems are designed for reliability in extreme shock and vibration environments:
- Main Controller: Ruggedized microcontroller with redundant systems
- Motor Controllers: High-current ESCs with regenerative braking
- Sensor Suite: Gyroscope and accelerometer for stability control
- Power Management: Distributed power system with circuit protection
- Communication: 2.4GHz radio with link monitoring and fail-safe
Design Philosophy
Reliability Over Complexity: TimberGryphon prioritizes proven mechanical solutions over complex electronics. The design emphasizes robust construction, easy maintenance, and predictable behavior under extreme conditions.
Engineering Challenges
Combat robotics presents unique engineering challenges:
- Shock Resistance: Electronics must survive massive impact forces
- Weight Optimization: Maximum functionality within strict weight limits
- Thermal Management: High-power systems in enclosed spaces
- Fail-Safe Design: Safety systems for weapon control and emergency stops
- Maintenance Access: Quick repair capabilities between matches
Safety Systems
Comprehensive safety systems ensure safe operation during testing and competition:
- Weapon Safety: Physical safety locks and electronic inhibits
- Emergency Stop: Multiple independent E-stop systems
- Link Monitoring: Automatic shutdown on radio signal loss
- Gyroscopic Stability: Sensors to prevent dangerous tumbling
- Thermal Protection: Automatic shutdown on overheating
Manufacturing and Materials
The robot employs advanced manufacturing techniques and materials:
- CNC Machining: Precision components for weapon and drive systems
- Welding: TIG welded steel frame for maximum strength
- 3D Printing: Rapid prototyping for brackets and housings
- Specialized Materials: AR500 armor steel, titanium fasteners
- Surface Treatment: Anodizing and powder coating for durability
Testing and Validation
Extensive testing ensures reliability and performance:
- Weapon Testing: Controlled spin-up tests with safety barriers
- Drive Testing: Mobility and maneuverability validation
- Impact Testing: Armor and structural integrity assessment
- Electronics Testing: Shock and vibration qualification
- System Integration: Full robot testing in combat scenarios
Competition History
TimberGryphon is designed for international robot combat competitions, representing the pinnacle of combat robot engineering. The robot embodies years of experience in mechanical design, electronics, and combat strategy.
Technical Innovation
- Modular Design: Replaceable armor sections for quick repairs
- Active Stability: Gyroscopic control for enhanced maneuverability
- Smart Weapon Control: Adaptive weapon speed based on conditions
- Predictive Maintenance: Sensor monitoring for component health
- Rapid Deployment: Quick-change systems for competition formats
Future Development
- Advanced Materials: Carbon fiber and titanium components
- Autonomous Features: AI-assisted combat strategies
- Sensor Integration: LIDAR and computer vision systems
- Wireless Telemetry: Real-time performance monitoring
- Multi-Robot Systems: Coordinated team combat capabilities