INSIDE THE RING: STACK OVERSPIN
INSIDE THE RING: STACK OVERSPIN
In the world of robotics, there exists a subculture of innovation, engineering, and sheer adrenaline: it is combat robotics. Fierce machines, meticulously crafted, engaging in high-octane battles where survival is determined by design, strategy, and a dash of luck. Introducing the Utah Combat Robotics Spring Fling 2024, where the spotlight shines on contenders like NeuRobotics Club and their bot, Stack Overspin.
NEUMONT’S ROBOTICS CLUB (NeuRobotics) HISTORY
Founded in 2021 by students Michael Rowland and Matthew Munoz-Ramirez, who were freshmen at the time, NeuRobitics got it’s start when the two decided to create a robot made from Legos and designed completely in Java. They simply took the skills learned in their class and turned it into a fun hobby. Soon after, the club gained popularity and now is competing collegiately.
The club even struck up a sponsorship with Make Salt Lake, a community maker space designed to enhance Utah's creative and tech communities by providing affordable access to tools and learning experiences. At Make Salt Lake there are dedicated workshops and tools available for members to utilize, such as a woodshop, metal shop, and a prototype lab where Stack Overspin was forged.
WHO IS STACK OVERSPIN?
Stack Overspin isn't just another combat robot; it's a testament to ingenuity and a crash course in learning. Crafted by students Michael Rowland, Matthew Munoz-Ramirez, Abigail Gerson, and Christian Grey, the 3 lb plastic weight bot embodies the concept of "meltybrain" – a relentless whirl of motion designed to outmaneuver and outwit opponents. Inspired by formidable predecessors like Project Liftoff and Blendo, the famous destructive bots, Stack Overspin aims to carve its own path in the arena, one rotation at a time.
PLASTIC BEETLEWEIGHT DIVISION
In Utah’s Bi-Annual Combat Robotics competition, there are multiple divisions: the Plastic Ants, the Ants, the Beetles and the Plastic Beetles. Competing in the 3 lb plastic beetleweight division, Stack Overspin finds itself in uncharted territory. Check out the competition here < Robot Combat Events>. With only a 3 lb weight limit and no metal allowed on the outside of the robot, NeuRobotics Club faced some challenges.
One specific challenge almost cost the team the competition; three days before the competition both motors had collapsed! The wiring came out of place causing Stack Overspin to lose all control of movement. If this were to happen in the ring, consider Stack Overspin … a sitting duck. Watch all the behind-the-scenes moments and the action of the battle below. ⬇️
THE COMPETITION
Win or lose, Stack Overspin's debut marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the NeuRobotics journey. With each competition, they'll refine their craft, hone their skills, and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of combat robotics. As the dust settles and the cheers fade, one thing remains certain: Stack Overspin and its creators are just getting started. Watch out, world – the underdogs are here to stay.