MicroChallenge 1 – GET A GRIP
Objective
The purpose of the first MicroChallenge is to create a gripper and a movable object. The gripper’s design should consider the limitations and possibilities of 3D printing, such as print orientation and support requirements.
The MicroChallenge starts with a series of lectures on collaborative robotics, safety and 3D printing. After the lectures the student teams move to their designated workplaces where they focus on the case assigned to them.
Each team will create a presentation, where they present their solutions and the process of getting there, to teachers and company representatives. Company representatives should be chosen from a field that is either directly associated with robotics or closely adjacent.
The students will learn how to work on a real project, time management, communication, how to perform rapid prototyping, and solve problems in a multinational team.
Acquired skills
Soft skills:
- Organization and time-management
- Communication
- Conflict management
- Decision making
- Presenting in front of an audience
Technical Skills:
- 3D design (CAD)
- With given parameters and restrictions
- While including safety considerations
- 3D printing
- Write a report and make a presentation
The case
The aim of the challenge is to design two pieces; a gripper and a movable object. The gripper’s maximum length is 200 mm from the bottom of the mounting piece. Maximum dimensions of the movable object are L/W/H 40 mm x 40 mm x 100 mm.
The movable object should be designed so that it is stackable on top of each other at least 3 pieces high.
Every team will receive a 3D-model of the mounting piece for the robot. This 3D-model will work as a template for the rest of the grippers’ design.
Required resources
Hardware:
- Computers
- 3D Printers
Software:
- 3D Design program (CAD)
- 3D Printer Software
- Office 365 / Google Docs
Structure
Before the MicroChallenge
The instructors need to be familiar with 3D printing and 3D modelling. They should also have an understanding of the dangers and design factors to be considered when designing a gripper for a collaborative robot.
- Collect information of students who will participate in the challenge, and create groups where the participants’ abilities compliment each other. We used DISC profiling.
- Organise meetings for teachers to discuss upcoming challenge week.
- Organise an online meeting for students to meet the rest of their team. They should have ice-breakers activities, f.ex. find things they have in common, and decide upon a team name.
During the MicroChallenge
Students will gather into their prearranged teams to discuss their plans for movable workpiece and complementary gripper. As soon as movable object design has been verified, it should be sent to be 3D-printed.
Fast iterative prototype printing will help students to move forward with designing their gripper. Teachers should make sure that the project the students are working on can be completed during the week.
Students should document their progress throughout the week and create a presentation. The student teams present their solution and the process of getting there, to local company experts and the teachers on Friday.
Program for MicroChallenge 1
Presentations/ Resources
| Activity | Resources |
| Presenting the case | 1.1 The case.pdf 3D-file of “Robot wrist attachment” handout to students 1.1 The Case.ppt |
| Introducing the concept of robotics and iterative design process | 1.2 Introduction to robotics and inovation.pdf 1.2 Introduction to robotics and inovation.pptx |
| Teaching about 3D-printing consideration when modelling | 1.3 3D-printing tips and tricks.pdf 1.3 3D-printing tips and tricks.pptx 3D-print: “Peg laying down” 3D-print: “Peg standing up” One of each model for each student to break |
| Presentation about safety considerations in design of gripper | 1.4 Safety in gripper design.pdf 1.4 Safety in gripper design.pptx 3D-print: “Half cone” Chocolate-coated marshmallow treats (Flødebolle). One treat for each student in case some are eaten at the end 3D-model: measure corner radius 3D-model: measure edge radius Print the measurement tools if you want to give points based on fillet radius |
Udated 3D files for all parts: Link to github repository
Disclaimer
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
Creative commons
This work; RoboCup – Teaching safety in robotics, is free of known copyright restrictions. CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication