[GBC] Fast Ball Sorting Robot - by Akiyuki

[DrJB]

Looks like Akiyuki got an EV3 set. Does this mean his GBCs are becoming 'intelligent' ?

[BusterHaus]

It's impressive that this is done with a grabber, but Philo's solution for fast sorting (see video below) seems better suited for long-term displays. It has less moving parts, the mechanical elements travel a shorter distance, motors turn less and it doesn't use elements that have a limited lifespan (rubber bands).

I'm still in awe that Akiyuki achieved such performance with this module, I'm just not certain why he would pick such a complex solution.

[Vorkosigan]

Awesome. I like how the same arm is used to push the buttons that empty the chutes.

[bj51]

It's impressive that this is done with a grabber, but Philo's solution for fast sorting (see video below) seems better suited for long-term displays.

I disagree: Akiyuki's model is much more refined and pleasing to the eye. Philo's model is very effective, but I don't think he focused much on design.

[Philo]

Design was somewhat constrained by the use of a single NXT kit ;)

It has less moving parts, the mechanical elements travel a shorter distance, motors turn less and it doesn't use elements that have a limited lifespan (rubber bands).

Not sure either that the friction pin in hole as a clutch would hold over a long time period...

Akiyuki's model is really neat (as always!)

[DrJB]

True Akiyuki's model is very aesthetically pleasing ... However, I like very much the 'multi-level' binary/gate sorting mechanism philo implemented. To me, it's more than just the looks/functionality, it's also the inner workings/math/algorithms. Let us not forget that, when the first GBC specs were 'drafted', philo blasted them all with his own GBC modules, some of them still running today. Yes, I also started my GBC adventure based on philo's page, and built those shown below, based on philo's instructions.

http://www.philohome.com/gbc/gbc.htm

Edited April 26, 2016 by DrJB

[Philo]

Thanks DrJB ;)

[RohanBeckett]

Philo! about time for you to do another new GBC - since you are practically a founding father of the 'movement' :)

[Philo]

Well... I participated in an "alien" ball contraption last week, using VEX IQ parts (

). Just hope mentioning this is not against forum rules ;)

[DrJB]

There was a VEX IQ GBC segment last year at Chicago's Brickworld. In all honesty at first I felt (What the h*** is that?). But then again, with competition comes product improvement and new ideas.

Edited April 26, 2016 by DrJB

[Technic Builder]

It's impressive that this is done with a grabber, but Philo's solution for fast sorting (see video below) seems better suited for long-term displays. It has less moving parts, the mechanical elements travel a shorter distance, motors turn less and it doesn't use elements that have a limited lifespan (rubber bands).

I'm still in awe that Akiyuki achieved such performance with this module, I'm just not certain why he would pick such a complex solution.

GBC modules are supposed to be inefficient on purpose - that's the ethos behind the models. It would be far more efficient to just build a large circular track around a table with a simple lift to move balls around the table. GBC modules are supposed to move them in an interesting / needlessly complex fashion.

[goggel]

Reminds me to finish my copy of it...

[BusterHaus]

GBC modules are supposed to be inefficient on purpose - that's the ethos behind the models. It would be far more efficient to just build a large circular track around a table with a simple lift to move balls around the table. GBC modules are supposed to move them in an interesting / needlessly complex fashion.

You are correct, although I never discussed the efficiency of either system. I was commenting on the long term durability of the mechanisms. Both topics are linked, but they can also be addressed individually.

[Pinno]

Hello

 

Can someone point me towards the software to run the Fast ball sorter - Planet GBC software files; when I go to open them are blank! Although, I might be doing something wrong.

[sawyer klegr]

On 4/25/2016 at 10:39 PM, DrJB said:

Looks like Akiyuki got an EV3 set. Does this mean his GBCs are becoming 'intelligent' ?

How dare you imply that most GBCs are not intelligent! ;)