Alternate Solution 3

The third alternate solution to this project is different from the other two in that it would be a tool the robot uses, instead of a mechanical component of the robot or an attachable part. This solution lies in the form of a PVC pipe, sealed at one of the ends, with a curved end and jagged "teeth" to cut into the ground. For the land portion of this project, this alternate solution would be extremely effective. It would be forced along the ground, "teeth" side down, and then tilted upward to catch the loosened sediment. It would then be carried with the open part to the top so that no sediment would be lost along the way. This solution would help with the land solution by successfully and easily completing the land challenges.

Could be a possible idea to implement into this alternate solution,
the scoop design featured here could be shown on the end
of the piping.
http://barsupplies.com/images/24ozal-ice-scoop.jpg

PVC piping which could be used in this alternate solution.
http://www.hhydro.com/images/P/pvc%20pipe-01.jpg

Putting the ball in the hoop with the alternate solution would be easy. The ball would simple have to be loaded into the piping at a previous time, then the pipe could be tilted downward into the hole in order to ensure accuracy when placing the ball. By using the alternate solution in this way, the challenge would become completed more easily and with more accuracy.

Focus is key!
http://starbeacon.com/archive/x7460712/g0a000000000000000059c4090eb071a1e377878bfba1b0afdcc9297397.jpg

The second water challenge, towing a stranded vehicle, could be used by making the robot tilt the PVC pipe attachment until it is vertical to the water. The side could be lowered into the vessel and then pulled along. By catching itself on the sides of the vessel, it would successfully cause the vessel to be towed along after the VEXRobot.
 The third water challenge is sinking an enemy vessel. Sinking an enemy vessel would employ use of the sharp portion on the PVC pipe attachment. By thrusting this portion of the attachment into the side of the enemy vessel, it would cause a whole which would fill with water, causing the enemy vessel to sink. Therefore this alternate solution would successfully fulfill the criteria of the third water based challenge.
Finally, there is the floating of the buoy. This water challenge would not be as easily fulfilled through the use of the alternate solution PVC pipe attachment. Therefore we decided that this alternate solution is not viable for this task.

Posted in: Alternate Solutions