For the uninitiated. Let me introduce you to Overkill!
It has made several appearances at the Makerspace and various events over the years. Most recently at our grand opening. Created by Jim Akeson and used for a variety of programs aboard the MakerBus. I came into possession of Overkill when I purchased the bus. After a few minor repairs, Overkill was back to its job inspiring young people to get into robotics. Unfortunately, the Makerbus met its demise due to vandalism. Overkill survives to carry on its mission. To that end, I have decided to long-term loan overkill to the Makerspace as a robotics platform to hack on (within reason) and enjoy!
I have built a lair for overkill under the electrical corner next to the bathroom. The floor has been raised and marked as a no-storage area as per fire code regulations. Overkill and related accessories will be stored here, including the remote and charger.
This robot carries meaning to some makers in our community, so while we all hope it continues to be a beloved educational tool a few ground rules.
- If you are working on overkill, modifying, repairing, or tinkering. Please make all attempts to leave it in operable condition before you leave the space. So others, including kids (big and small) who may drop in may enjoy it.
- Despite the name, Overkill is not a battle bot. Please do not treat it as such.
- Pay attention and exercise caution when operating overkill. Robots can develop a mind of their own at any time. Overkill is also very heavy and ankle height. I learned this the hard way at a children's event when it tried to live up to its name. (no children were harmed)
- If you are looking to make a huge change to Overkill in appearance or function please speak to me or post here first. I will probably be cool with it just would like a heads-up before it ends up with pink polka dots or something.
About Overkill
- Overkill is constructed of three power units from powered golf bags. Two batteries are located in each unit and they are connected with a rod that allows the body to articulate. There is a motor controller that is connected to a transceiver to make Overkill remote controllable. The wheels have locking pins that can pop out if they are overloaded. I believe this is why a number of wheels are not currently working. There is an E-Stop on top of Overkill to turn it on and off. It is tank drive and currently, the controls are set so each joy stick controls one side forward and back. There is a plug for the charger that also indicates the charge via LED
Please feel free to take overkill out anytime for a rip around the Makerspace and parking lot. I would also like to encourage makers to tinker with it and use it to teach others.
Here is a page to track the changes and find details about this project.
https://kamloopsmakerspace.miraheze.org/wiki/Overkill