All of the progress made so far has been based off theoretical calculations and educated assumptions. The current design phase builds the autonomous robot without any physical components. Every part of the vehicle will be carefully selected based on the design goal specifications, comparisons with other similar parts, and it's functionality with the other components of the vehicle. 

Currently we are narrowing down our options for each individual subsystem of our project. This includes the 

  • Microprocessor
  • DC Motors
  • Servo Motor
  • Sensors
  • Wheels
  • Battery
  • Chassis

Because each component is dependent on every other component, decisions must be made in order to optimize our performance while maintaining a balance between the capabilities and  expected  performance of each subsystem. 

Once these parts have been purchased and assembled, testing will begin. This will bring about a process of continuous incremental improvement which will continue until the final race. These incremental improvements can either qualify as a hardware or software change. If testing reveals a weakness or defect of a certain hardware component it can be re-evaluated, replaced, or modified. In addition, the software run by the microprocessor can be adjusted accordingly in order to improve the speed of the vehicle. Different strategies for turning corners, accelerating on straightaways, or improved tracking can all help in decreasing the final race time in order to come in 1st place.