.. include:: Actobotics (Discontinued) ========================= .. attention:: As of June 2023, ServoCity is `discontinuing the Actobotics line `_ to focus on goBILDA. We are retaining these pages as historical reference for teams that continue to have and use Actobotics parts. The Actobotics kit from ServoCity (https://www.servocity.com/actobotics) is a fixed-pitch, :term:`channel-based ` building system using imperial units. Its 1.5" :term:`c-channel ` and :term:`ball-bearing ` based motion system allows teams to iterate and build mechanisms entirely from kit parts. Special Considerations ---------------------- - Actobotics' :term:`channel ` hole pattern has many more mounting holes than a Tetrix channel, so it offers more flexibility in terms of mounting. - Actobotics uses imperial units across the board, allowing for clean spacing and fitting. However, most other kits use metric. - Actobotics can interface with other kits such as REV through a variety of Pattern Adapters. - ServoCity offers a 25% off discount for all *FIRST*\ |reg| teams making, pricing competitive: https://www.servocity.com/first_team_discounts Notable Components ------------------ - Mini-channel is offered in addition to the standard size :term:`channel ` for non-structural components. - Actobotics' X-rail :term:`extrusion ` system offers immense adjustability and flexibility as it adds a :term:`extrusion ` component to a :term:`channel-based ` kit. - To complement the structural offerings, Actobotics uses a series of clamping hubs and a robust 1/4" steel :term:`D-shaft `. - The Linear Motion Kit uses X-rail :term:`extrusion ` to build extending mechanisms. - The :term:`Servoblocks`, which prolongs the life of a servo, are recommended for all teams, regardless of kit. However, :term:`Servoblocks` seamlessly interface with the Actobotics ecosystem. - Actobotics furthermore offers motion options such as :term:`bevel gears ` and Linear Actuator kits (using :term:`lead screws `) for specific use cases. Verdict ------- Prior to being discontinued, Actobotics was a solid choice for new teams, offering a reliable base kit with many options to expand upon. Because it is no longer being produced we recommend teams consider other kits instead. Kit of Parts ------------ - `2020-2021 Kit Parts `_ Advantages ---------- - Actobotics provides a great value fixed pitch build system that is generally easier to assemble than :term:`extrusion-based ` systems which require cutting :term:`extrusion ` to length. - Actobotics has the patented :term:`Servoblocks`, which help drastically increase servo life by protecting it from shock loads. More information may be found in the glossary. - Actobotics is easily compatible with other build systems such as REV's kit using adapters which can be found on the Servocity website. - Actobotics is more sturdy than TETRIX in terms of drivetrain flex and has more support options to prevent structural bending. - The :term:`clamping hubs ` offered are more reliable than :term:`set screws `, as clamping engages the shaft in more places than a :term:`set screw ` (one face). As discussed in the :doc:`TETRIX section `, set screws in particular are vulnerable to loosening, especially without application of Loctite. - Actobotics' motion system is **very** robust and relies on :term:`ball bearings `, which have a lower coefficient of friction than bushings. Actobotics is compatible with the 5mm hex used by REV with their adaptable hubs. - Actobotics also allows for :term:`face mounting ` of motors as opposed to :term:`clamp mounting `. Disadvantages ------------- - Actobotics is no longer being produced by ServoCity, so it may be difficult to locate some parts. - Actobotics is not very cheap, so its cost may be prohibitive for some teams with a low budget. Note that with the 25% off FTC\ |reg| team discount, Actobotics can be cheaper than TETRIX. The only cheaper build system is REV. - The XL :term:`belts ` from ServoCity are not great. It is recommended that :term:`belts ` are purchased from ServoCity instead, which may necessitate the use of 3d printed pulleys. There also isn't a large amount of space inside the channel for a belt or chain run, vastly limiting the size of the pulleys. - :term:`Channel` takes up more space than :term:`extrusion `, so mechanisms can be a bit larger with the Actobotics kit. To remediate this issue, ServoCity sells :term:`mini-channel ` which is a similar size as :term:`extrusion `. .. figure:: images/actobotics/8644-rr1.jpg :alt: 8644 Brainstormers' Relic Recovery robot An example of a successful Actobotics based robot, 8644 Brainstormers: 2018 Winning Alliance Captain (Detroit), Relic Recovery .. figure:: images/actobotics/9971-rr2.jpg :alt: 9971 LanBros' Rover Ruckus robot Another successful Actobotics based robot, 9971 LanBros: 2019 Winning Alliance Captain (Detroit), Rover Ruckus .. figure:: images/actobotics/9794-rr2.png :alt: 9794 Wizards.exe's Rover Ruckus robot 9794 Wizards.exe used both Actobotics and REV :term:`extrusion ` to build their Rover Ruckus robot