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Kids robot

Rice Robotics Club: Research & Development

Our R&D team is passionate about creating robots that not only solve complex problems but also inspire wonder. Last year, we developed a jumping robot leg modeled after a cat to jump 6 inches off the ground. Next year, we are excited to continue this project by building a full quadruped robot. By blending curiosity, innovation, and advanced technology, our R&D team aims to solve real world robotics problems.

Prototype of 3D printed CatBot jumping leg

The Robot

Our CatBot Jumping Leg features brushless DC motors and a torsion spring enclosure to optimize potential jumping height. The chassis is compact and lightweight with a 60:1 worm gear reduction. The top leg provides a servo release mechanism for the bottom leg to allow the CatBot to jump. The test stand is made of dual sliding rails to ensure a vertical jump. Other components of this robot include a Raspberry Pi, ODrive S1 motor controllers and magnetic encoders, and LiPo Battery. 

The Showcases

2024 OEDK Engineering Showcase

April 16, 2024

Rice Robotics R&D team surround CatBot jumping leg and computers displaying code on a showcase table at the 2024 OEDK Engineering Design Showcase

The Demonstration

Watch a slo-mo of our jumping CatBot leg in action at the 2024 OEDK Engineering Design Showcase!

The Team

2023-24 Rice Robotics Research and Development Team

2024 Team Leads

Alex Corrin

Jordan Bolden

Nico Leibert

Thomas Pickell

Rice Robotics Research and Development team pose for a photo with an early prototype of the R&D CatBot jumping leg
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