How Neptune 4 Max Power Robotics Team Success

Educational Robotics of Central Ohio (ERCO), founded in 2001, is a Westerville-based non-profit that runs after-school robotics programs for students. Through FIRST robotics competitions and teams like Team Calamari, ERCO inspire young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators by engaging them in exciting programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills that inspire innovation. self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

In 2024，this talented home-school robotics team set out to build an 18"x18"x18" robot. From September 2024 to January 2025, they will compete in three robotics qualification competitions. Their goal is to win the which state championship in March. 3D printing, powered by the Neptune 4 Max, was key to their success. It combined creativity with precision engineering.

Revolutionizing the Robotics Workflow

Team Calamari used the Neptune 4 Max 3D printer to make big strides. They printed essential parts for their robot, including:

• Lightweight structural supports for a durable yet agile frame.
• Precision motor mounts ensuring stability and control.
• Customized gear systems to enhance efficiency and performance.
• Sensor housings and cable management systems to protect critical electronics under pressure.

When they began constructing their robot, the use of a 3D printer was an approach they had never considered before. However, during a critical meeting, they found themselves in a situation where they needed to print a specific part, yet there were no resources available—except for the 3D printer.

This moment marked the beginning of their reliance on 3D printing to support their project. The parts required for the robot were intricate and delicate, and 3D printing proved to be an ideal solution. The fine detail achievable with this technology, combined with the speed and self-levelling feature of the Neptune 4, helped them save valuable time and streamline their workflow. The efficiency and precision of the Neptune 4 played a crucial role in their success, ultimately contributing to their victory in the competition.

Key Benefits of 3D Printing in Robotics

The team found that 3D printing changed how they built competitive robots.

• Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing allowed them to make and test designs quickly, allowing them to keep improving quickly.
• Cost Efficiency: It saved money by not needing to buy parts beforehand. This made it cheaper without losing quality.
• Tailored Customization: 3D printing allowed them to make parts that fit their robot's needs perfectly. This boosted its function and performance.
• Real-Time Problem Solving: In competitions, 3D printing helped them make new parts when needed. This solved problems quickly.

Using 3D printing made their ideas come to life. It also made their team work better, think more creatively, and solve problems faster. These skills are essential for winning in robotics.

They're building a robot shell.

Watch Their Journey

See their amazing creation in action: Instagram Reel. For more on their 3D printing journey, check out the YouTube video.

We're excited to support these future engineers. We can't wait to see their next achievements with the Neptune 4 Max!