Upgrading the Sensors for Competition

Overview: Team 612 using better sensors, aiming for success

CHANTILLY, VA, FEBRUARY 8TH, 2025. Team 612’s programming subteam is making significant progress in automating key functions of the competition robot, focusing on LIDAR sensor integration and the jackscrew cannon system to enhance performance and precision.

One major development is the LIDAR sensor, which estimates the distance between the robot and the reef to assist in aligning game piece placement. “The LIDAR sensor emits pulses of light and records their return time to calculate distance,” said Achyut, a Programming member. “We use this data to align the payload with the reef’s various heights.” By mounting the sensor on the elevator system, the programming team is creating an automated alignment system, ensuring the coral is placed accurately with minimal driver intervention.

Another key project is the jackscrew cannon, which uses a jackscrew mechanism to adjust the cannon’s angle for precise coral launching. “I worked on the jackscrew cannon,” said Victor, a Programming member. “It took some time, but I got the cannon to move up and down properly.” This system provides an alternative scoring method, ensuring flexibility in gameplay strategies.

The programming subteam’s work is critical in enhancing autonomy and precision, allowing the robot to adapt to different game scenarios. Their contributions build upon the mechanical team's designs, ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software. As Team 612 moves closer to competition, these advancements will play a crucial role in maximizing the robot’s efficiency and overall performance.

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.

Elvin Duong