Team 612 Runs Tests on the Robot

Overview: In preparation for competition 1, Team 612 is testing multiple elements of the robot including the elevator system and climb.

CHANTILLY, VA, FEBRUARY 22ND, 2025. Team 612 has begun testing its elevator system and climb mechanism in preparation for the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) game, Reefscape.

The mechanical subteam has made significant progress on the elevator system, focusing on minimizing belt skipping by adding hex shafts for improved stability. "We've faced challenges with the intake system, but we are actively refining the mechanism and preparing to mount the elevator onto the robot soon," said Saatvik, a mechanical team member. The next steps include adding the chain, rerunning tests, and addressing misalignment issues in both the pivot mechanism and cable pulley. To improve performance, the team is reinforcing the structure with gussets and adjusting the spring to optimize weight distribution and increase movement speed. Designed for coral scoring, the elevator will transport game elements from the coral station and score them onto the reef.

The team is also testing its climb feature, designed to lift the robot off the ground during the endgame phase. Desiree and the team have been troubleshooting a nonfunctional NEO motor and making necessary repairs. These motors provide the torque needed to rotate the cage and lift the robot effectively. Additionally, the team is testing the claw interaction with the cage, manually simulating the climb process to refine the system. To strengthen the structure, they are 3D printing gussets and assembling the frame. With ongoing testing and refinements, Team 612 continues to push forward, ensuring its elevator and climb mechanisms are competition-ready.

About Chantilly Robotics 

Chantilly Robotics (FRC team 612) brightens the future for leaders and student technologists  within our team, school, and community through fun and engaging methods of learning and  teaching while shining a light on the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering,  math).  

Founded in 2001 with eight student members as an engineering class project, Chantilly  Robotics is one of the largest extracurricular organizations at Chantilly High School with over  100 registered members each year. Team 612 competes at FIRST Robotics Competitions in the  Chesapeake District. Outside of competition Team 612 supports multiple FIRST Lego League  Teams and elementary school STEM activities in the Chantilly High School Pyramid, spreading  love for STEM as well as FIRST values through community outreach.  

For more information, visit https://www.frc612.org or email chantilly.612@gmail.com. The  Chantilly Governor’s STEM Academy, located at Chantilly High School, sponsors Team 612.  Chantilly Academy inspires and empowers a diverse body of learners to explore career  pathways employing current industry trends taught by dedicated professionals.

Anshika