AbstractsEngineering

2.670 is an introductory Mechanical Engineering course that introduces students to the fundamentals of machine tool and computer tool use through the fabrication of a robot that is powered by compressed air. The compressed air powers two pneumatic actuators that propel the robot forward through interacting with a linkage system that pushes forward a wheel that is fitted with a one-way bearing. An upgrade to this design was developed that eliminates the linkage system. The robot is propelled forward by one actuator and steered by a servomechanism. A prototype was assembled and used to test the functionality of the final design. The design performed well, but more testing needs to be done, particularly with the control system, before a decision is made on whether or not this design or a similar one is to be used for 2.670.