Allplastics Engineering has assisted the Barker College Redbacks team by providing sponsorship for various engineering plastics used in the construction of the robot that achieved incredible results in the international First Robotics Competition (FRC).
The construction of the robot included materials such as polycarbonate panels, Nylon rod, and glass filled PTFE rods.
Lael Grant the Robotics Co-ordinator at Barker College said it was the generosity of Allplastics that enabled the team to provide the 'RedBox' gearbox to FRC teams in 18 countries around the world.
“This transformed a relatively unused motor into something easily and readily used by teams across the globe and provided support to financially developing teams,” grant said.
“We also used the engineering plastics provided to create innovative solutions for our robot. Nylon rods were turned down to provide bushings and custom washers for moving parts, polycarbonate sheeting was used to create a durable and flexible rotating shooting turret, as well as providing flexible and near indestructible components for the front of our intake. Molybdenum filled PTFE was turned down to provide a sliding support mechanism, taking advantage of the material's durability, lubricity and easy machinability.”
Grant continued: “We look forward to a great 2017 season together. The game has just been released and we are hard at work getting ready for another season. So far, we've built the boiler, and are working on the ball hoppers, and the airship. Our students are busy designing the robot chassis and prototyping a shooter, climber and a way to transport and use the gears. It's looking like an exciting year!”
The game reveal can be seen in the video below.