Climbing VPR Vehicle (M.E First)

Abstract

The original purpose of this project was to enhance a previous design project. The original design was a stair climbing vehicle with first-person view (FPV) capabilities using a VR headset. Given only five hundred dollars for this project, the team was able to redesign the chassis, suspension system, power train, optical, and many other sensors on the project. The group was so efficient with this design that not only was the previous project enhanced, but a new superior design was created. The current design is based off a mars rover suspension which allows six wheels to be in contact with the ground at all times, as well as the ability to climb 1.25x the size of the vehicle’s height. The vehicle’s dimensions are approximately 3 feet long and 2.5 feet wide and has a height of 2 feet. This allows for all terrain capabilities and a remote-control vehicle that can be used by first responders in natural disaster emergencies (i.e. collapsed buildings, fuel leaks). The current design was fitted with three chemical sensors to detect harmful chemicals in the air. It is also equipped with a 1080P camera and the ability for two-way communication. The camera has night vision capabilities and there are several passive infrared sensors mounted on the vehicle to detect life. The mission for this project is to send this robot into collapsed buildings and notify first responders of clean air, human life, and safety.