Mechanical Overview

This page pairs with Lesson 2 of the Into to Robotics V2 curriculum, which provides a more in depth explanation for the different mechanical parts.

The EDU Kit V2 contains over 180 parts! This page is intended to be a brief overview for some of the major part categories to reference while first exploring.

Structural

T-slotted Extrusion

Metal extrusion makes up the core of the structural system for the EDU Kit V2. It is available in different lengths that can be cut to size.

Brackets

There are many different brackets available designed to fulfill different roles in providing connections between items or extra support. Within the EDU Kit V2 there are structural, motion, and actuator brackets.

Bracket Name List

• UltraPlanetary Flat Mounting Bracket

• 15mm Plastic Motion Bracket

• 15mm Plastic 45 Degree Bracket

• 15mm Plastic 120 Degree Bracket

• 15mm Gearbox Motion Bracket

• 15mm Plastic Inside Corner Bracket

• 15mm Metal Bent Core Hex Motor Bracket V2

• 15mm Metal Bent Servo Bracket V2

• UltraPlanetary Bent Mounting Bracket

Motion

Omni Wheels

Omni Wheels have rollers mounted around the outside that passively rotate at 90 degrees to the powered direction of the wheel. This can aid with the robot turning as the rollers allow the wheel to more easily glide at an angle.

Traction Wheels

The Traction Wheels in the EDU Kit V2 are standard 90mm wheels with a thread around the outside made of TPU rubber.

Gears

Gears are a rotating mechanical part used to transmit motion using the “teeth” around the outer edge to engage with other gears or parts. All the gears in the EDU Kit V2 are spur gears with various numbers of teeth and sizes available.

Pillow Blocks

Pillow Blocks are a form of bracket designed to support a bearing or hex shaft. Hex Pillow Blocks have the same shape opening as the shaft to prevent movement. Bearing Pillow Blocks allow rotation while using a bearing.

Through Bore Bearings

Bearings reduce friction to help an axle better rotate within a bracket or other support. A short and long length of the through bore bearing is available in the EDU Kit V2.

Shafts

5mm Hex Shaft is used with wheels, gears, motors, and servos to create an axle for motion.

Hardware

The term hardware is commonly used to describe the small parts used to fasten, connect, and secure structural elements together.

M3 Hex Cap and T-Slot Screws

The difference in T-Slot Screws and Hex Cap Screws is the shape of their “head” and how they are added to extrusion. Hex Cap screws must slide in from the end of the extrusion while T-Slot screws are able to be added to areas without easy access points.

M3 Nyloc Nut

Nyloc nuts, a type of locknut, are used to secure screws and their attached components with the help of a nylon collar inside the nut.

Shaft Collars

Shaft Collars use a small set screw to slip onto an axle or shaft and, once tightened, lock into place to prevent sliding.