| Weapon |
The pick-ax (found in
a friend's backyard) is powered by pressurized CO2. The CO2 is stored in
a large cylinder (from a paintball gun) and is fed into a pneumatic cylinder
that cocks a heavy spring on windup and pushes on the pickax on release. |
|
| Frame |
The frame is made of
welded aluminum tubing that surrounds a tray holding all of the operating
electronics and pneumatic valving. The tray is suspended on bungee cords
to absorb some of the shock of being slammed during competition. The two
drive wheels are wide set to give some "flip" resistance. This is an important
issue when the 2 pound pick-ax head is carried so high above the
ground. |
|
| Drive Train |
The Shrike is powered
by standard RC car motors and battery pack(s). The small Vantec radio
controller allows operation of both motors from a single joystick
and is used by most competitors. The motor gearboxes are surplus Pitman
gearheads, modified to accept the radio control motors. The motors never
run hot in practice and the Vantec is, well, overkill. |
|
| Armor |
For protection from ramming,
the pickax wood handle and the front of the frame are especially heavy.
The body is made of Lexan of varying thickness. Armor was added below
the frame for protection from arena hazards. |
|
