Project Overview: Split – A 150g 4WD Vertical Spinner Combat Robot

Split is a 150g antweight vertical spinner robot designed to compete in robot combat competitions. It combines speed, maneuverability, and a powerful weapon system to deliver destructive blows to its opponents. Built for durability, Split leverages advanced design techniques like TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) flexible armor and a high-speed beater bar to dominate the competition.

Why Did I Decide to Build Split?

The world of combat robotics is highly competitive, with diverse strategies and designs. I wanted to create a bot that could hold its own in any match. After experimenting with different robot types, I realized vertical spinners are among the most effective in combat, thanks to their ability to pass energy through the ground and deliver devastating hits. Split was born from the idea of combining high agility with a destructive vertical weapon system.

I aimed to build a competitive robot with the following goals in mind:

Compact, lightweight design for the 150g weight class.

Maximize impact force with a vertical spinning weapon that delivers high kinetic energy to opponents.

Durability and versatility by incorporating TPU flexible armor and a robust chassis design.

Modular and repairable structure so I could quickly replace or upgrade parts between matches.

How Does Split Work?

At the core of Split's design is the vertical spinner, a high-speed beater bar made from 4140 steel, powered by a direct-drive drone motor. The weapon spins at a top speed of 33,000 RPM, delivering heavy hits while maintaining stability.

Here’s how it all comes together:

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) System: The 4WD setup provides excellent control and fast acceleration, allowing Split to quickly outmaneuver opponents.

Weapon System: The vertical spinner is mounted centrally and powered by a drone motor. This motor is directly connected to the beater bar, reducing power loss and increasing efficiency. The weapon’s high rotational speed creates significant kinetic energy, which is transferred to the opponent during impacts.

TPU Armor: The flexible TPU armor wraps around Split’s chassis, providing a cushion against heavy impacts while keeping the robot lightweight. The armor absorbs hits and reduces the chance of internal damage.

Chassis: Made from carbon fiber and 3D-printed materials, Split’s chassis is lightweight but strong. It ensures the robot remains rigid during combat while minimizing the overall weight.

Tactical Forks: Fork mounts help Split catch opponents’ low-lying edges, ensuring the vertical spinner gets a clean hit.

Key Features:

Weight Class: 150g (Antweight)

Weapon: Single-tooth 4140 steel beater bar (33,000 RPM top speed)

Drive: 4WD system for maximum mobility and control

Armor: Flexible TPU side armor to absorb impacts

Chassis: Carbon fiber and 3D-printed frame for strength and weight efficiency

Power System: 8.4V system powering the weapon and drive motors

Images & Videos

Images: Showcase the modular design, TPU armor, weapon system, and drive train.

Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDUlz0I8KHk&t

Footage of Split in action, including highlights of competition performances and test runs showing its destructive potential and durability.