ideas for a robot

[m@]

Hey, I'm in this robotics class and i've built a robic arm that I am to program in c++ so that it can sort different colored marbles. Were supposed to create some sort of loading device to that will allow the arm to pick the marbles up one by one. And at the same time, using phototransistors + leds to determine its color. Though I know how to use sensors to determine its color. One white led on one side, 3 phototransistors on the other (ryb, and all the marbles will be clear). I wanted to know what sort of ideas you guys had for the loading device or "hopper". Currently I had to come up with a new idea because my old design using a tube would not allow me to change the size of the marble. I'm thinking a ramp with some sort of V shape down the middle of it. With a size good enough so that small marbles can roll down it while large ones can also. I drew up a picture in sketchup but its my first time so its not all filled in, see if you can make out what it really is. Anybody got any other ideas for this?

[Pinch Paxton]

I think that a curved gutter would be more stable than a slot. The marbles would be less likely to escape.

 

Pincho.

[m@]

well i came up with this idea and i think its the one im going to be using, i don't need any more help, thanks anyway: http://www.h4x.co.uk/up/robotics.jpg

[Sayonara]

When atinymonkey was at school he built a robot that burned down an entire block.

 

True story.

[Radical Edward]

4) A robot must sort marbles, except when sorting the marbles is in contradiction with the first three laws.

[kenel]

Be sure to add the, "A robot must never harm humans or its creator" variable...otherwise we're all doomed. Haven't you seen Terminator?

[atinymonkey]

When atinymonkey was at school he built a robot that burned down an entire block.

 

True story.

 

Yes. Little robot, flamable paint and large fuse boxes: equals a need for a new IT block.

 

Lesson learnt.

[Dave]

Oops.