Bruce

Bruce was designed with a focus on manipulating game pieces using a pneumatic claw mounted on an articulated arm. The robot used a mecanum drive system, which allowed it to move in any direction and made it well-suited for defensive maneuvering around the field. Structurally, Bruce featured a tripod-style support system: the main arm was mounted in the center while two tripod supports on either side helped stabilize the mechanism. These side structures also housed the robot’s electrical boards, helping distribute components along the frame. Although the original strategy centered on scoring game pieces with the arm, the mechanism proved to be less reliable than expected during competition. As a result, the team adapted their approach and used Bruce primarily as a defensive robot, focusing on blocking and disrupting opponents rather than scoring. When the claw did function effectively, it was better suited for gripping cubes than cones due to the shape and operation of the pneumatic system. Despite its challenges, Bruce demonstrated the team’s ability to adapt strategy and continue contributing during matches even when mechanical difficulties limited its intended scoring capabilities.