HOW TO MAKE YOUR FLL ROBOT CONSISTENT - FLL Navigation 101 - Part 1 - Lazer Robotics

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the essential steps to enhance the consistency of your FLL (FIRST LEGO League) robot's navigation. It focuses on the hardware components that play a crucial role in achieving reliable and precise movement. Whether you're a rookie or an experienced participant, understanding these components will significantly improve your robot's performance in competitions.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Hardware

Before you begin building your FLL robot, ensure you have all the required hardware components. Here’s a list of what you will need:

• Weight Block: Use this to stabilize your robot.
  • Weight Block Link
• Ball Bearing: Essential for smooth wheel movement.
  • Ball Bearing Link
• SPIKE Prime Front Wheel: This will be the primary wheel for driving.
  • SPIKE Prime Front Wheel Link
• Ball: Helps in achieving better traction.
  • Ball Link
• Front Wheels: Choose suitable wheels for optimal navigation.
  • Wedge Belt Wheel Link
  • Narrow Rim Link
  • Wheel Hub Link

Practical Tip

Check if you have all components before starting. This will save you time and frustration during the assembly process.

Step 2: Assemble the Robot Base

Once you have your hardware, begin assembling the robot base. Follow these steps:

1. Attach the Weight Block: Securely attach the weight block at the center of the robot to ensure stability.
2. Install the Ball Bearing: Place the ball bearing on the weight block. This will allow for smoother motion.
3. Mount the Front Wheel: Fix the front wheel onto the designated spot on the robot base.
4. Add Additional Wheels: Attach the front wheels you've chosen to the sides of your robot for better navigation.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Ensure that the wheels are aligned properly. Misaligned wheels can cause issues with navigation accuracy.

Step 3: Configure Wheel Settings

After assembling the base, configure your wheel settings for optimal performance:

1. Check Wheel Alignment: Ensure that all wheels are correctly aligned and move freely.
2. Adjust Wheel Tension: Use any adjusters or spacers that might be needed to keep the wheels from being too tight or too loose.

Real-World Application

Proper wheel configuration can significantly affect how your robot handles turns and maneuvers through the course, making this step crucial for success in FLL competitions.

Conclusion

By gathering the right hardware and assembling your robot base with attention to detail, you create a strong foundation for consistent navigation. In the next steps, consider programming and testing your robot to refine its movements further. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series, where we will cover the programming side of FLL navigation.