Open Source Intake
A comprehensive, open-source intake system designed specifically for the FTC 'Into the Deep' season, featuring modular design principles that enable teams to customize and adapt the system to their specific robot configurations.
Gallery
Prototype Testing
Early prototype undergoing performance testing
Project Overview
The Open Source Intake represents a culmination of three seasons of FTC experience and mechanical design iteration. Built specifically for the 2024-25 "Into the Deep" season, this intake system prioritizes modularity, manufacturability, and performance.
Design Philosophy
Modularity First
The entire system is built around standardized mounting interfaces and swappable components. Teams can:
- Adjust roller configurations for different game elements
- Swap between active and passive intake modes
- Modify mounting points for various chassis designs
- Scale the system up or down based on robot size constraints
Manufacturing Accessibility
Every component was designed with common FTC fabrication methods in mind:
- 3D printable components use standard PLA/PETG materials
- CNC parts designed for basic 3-axis mills
- Hardware uses readily available FTC-legal fasteners
- Assembly requires only basic hand tools
Technical Specifications
Performance Metrics
- Intake Rate: 3 second cycle times
- Reliability: 85+% success rate in testing
- Weight: Light weight materials and pocketing
- Fast: 1000+ rpm free speed
Key Components
- Roller Assembly: Compliant TPU rollers with precision bearings
- Drive System: 2:1 gear reduction for optimal torque/speed
- Mounting System: Universal bolt pattern compatible with common chassis
- Control Interface: Standardized connector for easy integration
Materials Engineering
Component selection balanced performance with accessibility:
- Rollers: Shore 85A TPU for compliance
- Bearings: goBilda bearings for accessibility
- Frame: 6061-T6 aluminum for strength-to-weight
- Hardware: 10.9 Alloy Steel for longevity
Development Process
Iterative Design
The project went through 6 major design iterations:
- v1-2: Proof of concept, basic functionality
- v3-4: Reliability improvements, bearing upgrades
- v5: Manufacturability focus, cost reduction
- v6: Final optimization based on community feedback
Community Integration
From day one, the project was developed with community input:
- Monthly design reviews with many local and global teams
- Open feedback system through Discord collaboration
- Live CAD sessions streamed for educational value
Impact & Adoption
Competitive Success
Teams using the Open Source Intake achieved:
- Higher qualification rankings
- Increased reliability scores
- Reduced build time (40+ hours saved vs custom designs)
- Better documentation and team understanding
Community Growth
The project fostered broader FTC community engagement:
- 500+ members in dedicated Discord server
- Monthly design challenges and improvements
- Mentorship connections between veteran and rookie teams
- Cross-pollination of ideas between different design approaches
Looking Forward
Season Extensions
The modular architecture enables rapid adaptation for future seasons:
- Roller profiles can be swapped for different game elements
- Mounting interfaces accept new sensor packages
- Control logic easily modified for rule changes
Educational Impact
Beyond competition, the project serves as an educational platform:
- Complete design rationale documentation
- Manufacturing tutorials and troubleshooting guides
- Open collaboration model for other projects
- Bridge between veteran expertise and rookie enthusiasm
The Open Source Intake demonstrates that high-performance robotics components can be both accessible and educational, fostering innovation while building community connections that extend far beyond any single competitive season.