The 'Typhoon' Robot Project

Origins

THIS SECTION IS UNDER DEVELOPMENT!

Six radar engineers from BAE SYSTEMS Avionics assisted a Squadron of Edinburgh Air Cadets to design and construct of a number of robots to compete in the BBC television series: Robot Wars and Technogames.

It was an exciting engineering project for young people, gaining national television exposure.
The aim of the project:

• To motivate young people to become the engineers and scientists of tomorrow.
• To show that engineering is a fun activity with career rewards.
• To show how science can be applied to making practical devices.

Project development:

• We started in May 2001 with a concept.
• We entered ‘Robot Wars’ competitions in 2001, 2002 and 2003.
• We expanded to ‘Technogames’ in December 2002.
• We became the Robot Wars ‘Grand Champion’ in 2004

Beginnings

• Short timescale
  • 12 weeks to go before competition
  • No experience
  • Decided to enter middleweight category to learn
• Cadets visit scrap yard
  • Found large steel pipe for weapon ring
• Initial brain storming session
  • Concept of spinning outer shell containing cutters
  • Countermeasures - Smoke cartridges
  • Girls want it covered in fur and called ‘Fluffy’
  • Name of Typhoon decided
• Other parts chosen and ordered
  • Radio control, wheels, motors and batteries
  • Cost exceeded £1000
  • 16 Industrial firms provided sponsorship (now 24)