We have put all of the existing parts, as well as a stock of screws and nuts in black canvas bags in Butler 101. We can keep these bags on top of the lockers in Butler 101 for the rest of the semester so that everyone can access them as needed.

If the part or screw you need is not in one of the bags or there is a custom part you'd like, please email Kenna and we will get it delivered to you as soon as possible!

Please take at least a little time to enjoy your short break from classes and recharge before the final push to showtime.

We will be here throughout the break working on the last technical elements of the robots (gestures control, screens, LEDs, etc.) and doing technical preparations for the show. If you are working on your robot during this time and need anything we are happy to help, just let us know!

We look forward to seeing everyone for their tech rehearsals on Monday, April 21st!

Our day of first rehearsals went very well and everyone truly should be proud of all of the work that has gone into their stories and robot characters.

The final part of our journey to showtime will be intense and exciting, but may also feel a bit stressful at times. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The goal is to convey your stories to the audience and there are many technical pathways to achieving that.
• As you encounter challenges, remember to keep a flexible mindset and think creatively about how to solve them.
• Work together with your team and classmates to brainstorm solutions.
• We are here to help you, so please do not hesitate reach out (via email to Kenna).

Technical Updates

There will be an ongoing stream of technical updates occurring from now until the show. We will do our best to keep everyone informed of these updates via news items on this page. Currently we are working on:

• Installing hardware and software for controlling servos for gestures: This is currently our highest priority, as it will enable you to create your character's physical gestures. We will provide a full status update on Tuesday (4/15) during class.
• Improving wheel rollers: After enough use, some of the small rollers on your robot's wheels will have a tendency to eject themselves from the wheels when rolling. We have developed a process for locking the rollers into your wheels and are in the process of applying this to each of your robots. This is high priority, but the process is time consuming, so we are balancing this with the other tasks. If a roller pops out repetitively, it is okay to use drive your robot without it (although it will change the way it moves a bit).
• Installing screen hardware and associated design software: We have collected information from everyone about where your screen will be mounted and are in the process of printing the necessary mounts. We will also be providing software to use for designing the screen content. A full status update will be provided on Thursday (4/17) during class.
• Deploying show control software: Show control software will allow you to easily sequence your robot's lines, gestures, and screen content. This will greatly improve your ability to run your show from a single interface. For example, you will be able to use controller buttons to trigger your robot's lines, gestures, and screen content.

We understand that ongoing updates and fundamental technical work so close to the show can be stressful, but know that we are working very hard to provide you with the tools you need as quickly as possible. While you are waiting on specific tools, updates, or parts, please continue to work on elements of your show that do not require those items. If you are unsure of the status of a specific item, please reach out to us (we are happy to provide status updates as frequently as you need).

We look forward to working with you throughout the week in rehearsals and in class!

Everyone has received their controllers and all robots have been updated with the latest software.

For some basic tips on how to use your controller, check out the controller section on the Connecting to Your Robot page.

If you encounter any problems with your controller or robot, please email Kenna as soon as possible!

First rehearsal sessions for each group have been scheduled for Sunday, April 13th (see the calendar for details). For the first rehearsal, we will focus on:

• Understanding the performance space and how it will be configured.
• Running through your show with a focus on your robot's movements across the stage.
• Installing the electronics and software needed for creating gestures, syncing audio, using the screen, and using LEDs.

For rehearsal, please make sure to bring:

• Your script
• Your robot (can be in a partially finished state still)
• Your controller
• Your computer
• Audio files of your character's lines (does not have to be complete or final versions)
• Any other show elements (e.g., sound effects, props, costumes, etc.) that you'd like to integrate into rehearsal or discuss.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday in Butler 100!

The first batch of controllers have been delivered to their robot's locker and the necessary software updates have been made to the robot. Each group should have at least one robot with a physical controller and the remaining controllers will be delivered by later this evening (4/9).

More updates soon!

Everyone's six remaining servos and mounting accessories have been delivered to their lockers (or robot storage locations). Everyone should now have a total of eight MG-995 servos and two Dynamixel servos.

As you are building and need additional parts, please feel free to request them by emailing Kenna. Just send the type of part you need (can include a photo) and the quantity.

We are able to print custom parts, just provide a description of what you need and/or a link to a model.

You might also want to check out the Printables 🔗 or Thingiverse 🔗 website for models we can print that might be useful for your robot.

Welcome to the site for all the info related to building and programming your robots. This site will contain all the documentation and information related to your robot. We will update its content regularly, so check back often!