On Sunday, September 29, the Qubit Bot team had the privilege of hosting an outreach event with Mike Nunnery, Product Engineering Manager at Maxim Integrated. Known for his expertise in silicon validation, automated testing, and team leadership, Mike has an extensive background working with various electronic components ranging from audio systems to display technology, sensors, and precision amplifiers. His unique perspective offered valuable insights into the engineering world, which left a lasting impact on the team.
Understanding Electrical Engineering and Beyond
During his session, Mike took the team on a journey through the intricate world of electrical engineering, introducing them to a broad range of specializations within the field, such as semiconductors, radio frequency (RF) communications, and power systems. One of the standout moments was his explanation of electromagnetics, a crucial principle in modern technology, which explores the relationship between electricity and magnetism. Mike shared his fascination with this concept and its application in devices like motors and semiconductors—key components in robotics and everyday gadgets.
This deep dive into electromagnetics particularly resonated with the Qubit Bot team, who rely on motors and other electrical components to drive their robot’s functions. Hearing about the real-world applications of these principles further validated the importance of the team's technical learning in preparation for the upcoming season.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Semiconductor Manufacturing
Mike also delved into the fascinating process of semiconductor manufacturing, highlighting the precision and innovation required to produce the core components that power modern technology. From creating wafers—thin slices of semiconductor material used to fabricate multiple units known as dies—to discussing thermal management and advanced packaging techniques, the session provided the team with an in-depth understanding of how these essential components come to life.
For the Qubit Bot team, this was a learning moment on how high-level engineering concepts, like heat dissipation in semiconductors, have parallels in robotics. Just like in semiconductors, managing heat in a robot's motors and systems is crucial for optimal performance and reliability.
Showcasing the Qubit Bot Season Robot
After Mike’s insightful presentation, the team took the opportunity to showcase their own robotics creation—a bot they've built for the current robotics season and to explore new technologies and refine their engineering skills. The demonstration included a discussion of the past season’s challenges and their current strategy for preparing for the upcoming season. The bot, equipped with a two cascade lifts and mecanum wheels, is being used by the team to experiment with incorporating AI and machine learning into their robot’s hardware and software.
Mike was particularly interested in how the team is pushing the boundaries of their robot’s capabilities by integrating new technologies. His feedback provided valuable insights into how they could further refine their systems to enhance performance during competition.
Learnings and Application to the Upcoming FIRST FTC Season
The team left the meeting with several key takeaways.
The Importance of Precision and Testing
Mike emphasized the need for thorough testing in semiconductor production, a lesson the team can apply to robot building. Rigorous testing of components and systems will ensure that the robot performs reliably in competition.
Thermal Management
Understanding how heat affects performance is crucial not just in semiconductors but also in robotics. The team can explore better ways to manage heat in their robot’s motors and electronics, ensuring that overheating doesn’t compromise their robot during matches.
Iterative Design Process
Mike’s description of the semiconductor design process mirrored the iterative approach the Qubit Bot team uses in their robot development. Continuous refinement, even after initial designs, is key to overcoming challenges like weight distribution and performance issues.
Adaptability and Innovation
The global semiconductor industry is marked by rapid innovation, something the team can relate to in the fast-paced world of robotics. Being open to new ideas, experimenting with technologies like AI, and refining their robot's design are all vital for the team’s success in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The Qubit Bot team’s meeting with Mike Nunnery was more than just a showcase of their robot—it was an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the fields of engineering and technology. The knowledge shared by Mike will undoubtedly help the team as they prepare for the FIRST FTC season, providing them with the technical and strategic foresight needed to tackle upcoming challenges.
By applying these learnings, the Qubit Bot team is set to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation, just as the semiconductor industry does, in their quest for excellence in robotics.
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