How to Simplify Building Intake Systems for FTC Robots

In the fast-paced world of competitive robotics, teams constantly face the challenge of balancing innovation with efficiency. Robotics teams love intake systems and they are widely used in robotics competitions like the FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) because they are crucial for many robots to pick up and move objects. However, creating an intake system can be both time-consuming and expensive. The time and resources required for prototyping, CAD design, and 3D printing can slow down even the most experienced teams, putting them at risk of falling behind. This is where the Intake Hub Kit from Studica Robotics makes the difference. By providing a cost-effective, reliable, and efficient solution, teams can streamline their building process and focus on creating a winning robot.

Transform Your Intake Systems

The Intake Hub Kit is designed to transform how you build intake systems for robot projects and competitions like FTC. This innovative kit saves you valuable time and resources, eliminating the need for extensive prototyping, CAD design, and 3D printing. With its cost-effective and reliable design, you can quickly assemble your intake system and concentrate on refining other critical aspects of your robot. Experience the perfect blend of innovation and convenience. Order your Intake Hub Kit today and elevate your FTC robot to the next level!  

The Intake Hub Kit

Currently available with a 6mm D-shaft Bore, and soon to include a versatile Hex Bore option, the Intake D-Shaft Hub Kit is crafted to integrate with silicone rubber tubing (sold separately) seamlessly. This combination creates a straightforward yet robust intake system. Specifications:

• Main Piece: Hex width of 20.78mm and thickness of 10.0mm.
• Tapped Holes: Six M6 tapped holes and one M4 tapped hole for an M4 set screw.
• Diameter: 6.0mm D hole, additional dimension Φ7.5mm14.0mm.
• Material: AL6061-T6.
• Pins: Six pins per pack, each with an M 64.0mm thread, made from SS303 material.

Multi-Intake Hub Mechanism:

 

In this example, we created an intake system using multiple Intake Hub Kits with silicone rubber tubing attached to the screw inserts. Powered by a motor with a belt and pulley, it can be a part of an arm that slides in and out of the robot’s frame or in a stationary position. This system is ideal for picking up difficult items or gathering items in large quantities. The tubing length can be adjusted to suit the robot's needs.

 

Single Roller Intake:

 

One application for the Intake Hub Kit is to create a single roller intake mechanism with rubber tubing attached to the screw inserts. Driven directly by motors, this simple mechanism can pick up basic items like disks or balls. However, using multiple intake hubs would create a more robust system.

 

In conclusion, the Intake Hub Kit from Studica Robotics is a transformative solution for robotics teams looking to simplify the construction of intake systems. If you are competing in the FIRST® Tech Challenge, this kit offers a streamlined, cost-effective approach that eliminates the need for extensive prototyping, CAD design, and 3D printing. With its easy integration and reliable performance, the Intake Hub Kit empowers you to focus on innovation and efficiency, giving your robot a competitive edge!