|
Simple Sumo
The objective of Sumo is to push your opponent (or an object if playing by yourself) out of a ring while your robot stays inside. The key when it comes to gearing is having enough torque to push your opponent out while still maintaining enough speed to maneuver.
I call this simple sumo because there isn't any opponent detection going on. A simple sumo circle can be made by making a circle on a light colored surface with black tape a couple of feet in diameter. You'll have no problem running into your opponent for an action packed round if you keep your ring small.
This competition is about trying to get an advantage on your opponent by offsetting his balance causing him to lose traction and be pushed out. Follow the steps below to make a simple ramp for your sumo robot.
Build Instructions Follow these steps to convert "Eddie" into a basic sumo robot.
|
|
[Step 1:]
Place four friction pins. 2 in the first hole on each side of the 1x12 beam next to the RCX and 2 in the second to the last hole from the back. |
[Step 2:]
Attach a 1x16 beam to the pins you just inserted. Place a 1x12 axle through the front most hole in the beam and secure it with a half bushing. |
|
|
[Step 3:]
Slide a bent lift arm on the axle until it is flush with the half bushing. Insert a double pin in the two holes directly above the bend. |
[Step 4:]
Repeat the process four more times alternating the position of the double pin. Cap it off with one last half bushing. (Note: If you don't have this many double pins try using additional axles and full bushings. The point is to produce a scoop that will offset your opponent.) |
|
|
[Step 5:]
Finish your sumo robot by adding a 1x16 beam to lock in the forward scoop. For additional strength add four 2x4 plates between the scoop and chassis beams. |
[Step 6:]
Congratulations you're finished! |
Programming Follow these simple steps to program your sumo-bot
The pseudo-code for a Sumo program looks like this:
- Go forward until black
- Backup for time
- Turn for time
- [REPEAT]
Here are some example programs in Pilot:
If you're programming in inventor to better mimic traditional robot sumo competitions you should add a five second wait to the start of your program. Here's an example.
There are quite a few sumo robot competitions out there that will allow LEGO robots. See if you can find one in your area to participate in. Happy sumo'ing!
For futher reading on the subject Check out these other sumo and LEGO robot resources.
|
