Robot Building for Beginners, Third Edition

(Marvins-Underground-K-12) #1

CHAPTER 6 ■ ROBOT LINE-FOLLOWING


Figure 6-18. Ziploc brand square 2.5 cup container


Most disposable food storage containers are made from polypropylene thermoplastic. Polypropylene
is highly resistant to chemicals and moisture. It can resist boiling heat, although it will become brittle in
freezing temperatures.


Connecting It Together


In Sandwich, no tape, rubber bands, or glue are used to connect the parts to the robot’s body. Many
hobbyists overuse these fastening methods, resulting in a sloppy or fragile robot. Additionally, it’s awkward
to disassemble pieces connected in that manner.


Physical Connections


Whenever possible, use ordinary screws to connect parts to the body (see Figure 6-19). Screws have
tremendous holding strength, they’re durable, fairly inexpensive, look impressive, and you can remove and
install them over and over. You can buy fasteners of all shapes and sizes at your local hardware store, or
online at MSCDirect.com, MicroFasteners.com, or McMaster.com.


Figure 6-19. Common #4-40 round slotted machine screw

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