Robotics

Robotics team works to build their bot

Avery Roe roeave000@hsestudents.org

1. Senior Bella Roberson takes off the sign from the robot after a competition. 2. A volunteer engineer watches as the students are test driving the robot to make sure it will not tip over. Photos by Sydney Territo. The Fishers robotics team receives their challenge information on January 8th. For the following 2 months, they work hard to build and design components, which will eventually come together to form their bot. “Our first competition was in Kokomo from March 5 to March 6,” coach Jeff Fronius said. “For the first few meetings after Jan. 8, we were primarily planning and deciding what to do. We then started to design, prototype components, and build the

2 robot.” Within the team, there are six subgroups: mechanical, fabrication, CAD (design), electrical, programming, and media. Sophomore Ava Ferguson is a part of the CAD team and prides herself on the contributions she’s been able to make, both to the team and to the build of the robot. “With CAD (ComputerAided Design), I was able to design components for the robot, including a mount for a color sensor, beam brakes, and a mount for our RSL (Robot Signal Light),” said Ferguson. Ferguson typically spent the season designing the smaller components of the bot. She worked alongside senior Riley Stubber, who is the CAD lead. “I use CAD software to 3D model and execute a design that we have so that we can either 3D print or manufacture it and then test it,” said Stubber. Along with building their own bots, members of the team work to scout the bots of other teams. Ferguson and her teammate, Ian Stone, discuss the information they gather with the rest of the team in order to prepare them for the next match. “We used this system to not only prepare for the upcoming 1

match but to also have new strategies, both offensive and defensive,” said Ferguson. The team’s most recent competition was the state championship at Rose Hulman. Their alliance (paired with teams 4272 and 6498) finished in third place and team 5010 placed 7th in the state. Ferguson recalls the elements she has worked to create for their bot. “My favorite creation that I’ve designed has been the driver station, which holds the controllers, laptop, and mounts for them. For every match, the drivers use the driver station as it holds everything that they need to control the robot,” said Ferguson. Robotics is full of strong collaborators and teammates, which built their strong team dynamic. The students on the team get along well and enjoy the work they’re putting into the competition. “If you like programming, coding, working with electrical, designing and 3D modeling components, building and fabrication, and even web design/media, we have spots on the team for you. You’ll be taught by experienced students and mentors, and you will have an amazing year,” said Stubber.