Chip-E Universal Expansion Kit

thingiverse

The Chip-E Universal Expansion Kit (Chip-E UEK) is a set of replacement parts designed specifically for the [RobotGeek 'Chip-E' - Open Source Arduino 3D Printed Robot](https://www.trossenrobotics.com/robotgeek-chip-e.aspx). The Chip-E UEK was created to enhance the capabilities of the original Chip-E design, which is now known as the Chip-E Remix Challenge. The Chip-E UEK features Makerbeam aluminum extrusions that are attached to the outside corners of the body. These 100mm extrusions replace all the standoffs originally used to hold the body together, and they also provide hard point mounts for future mods and add-ons. The user can access any level of the body by removing a maximum of four M3 screws. One of the main advantages of the Chip-E UEK is that it allows users to create mods for the platform without having to modify or remix the original design files. This makes it easier for people who are not comfortable with CAD software to contribute to the development of new designs and features. The design process involved importing and converting the *.step files from Robotgeeks into Fusion 360, where they were used as a starting point for redesigning the body parts. The goal was to leave enough space inside the body to accommodate the power plug, LCD, and battery while still allowing for the addition of Makerbeam extrusions. The resulting design features blocky corners on the head and base that allow them to be attached to the Makerbeam using M3 screws. The through-hole corners were designed to be compatible with M3 x 16 screws, which required thickening the top plate to fill in a gap left by a missing 3 mm in the overall height of the Chip-E. The midsection was also redesigned to include multiple holes for attachment to the Makerbeam, giving users the flexibility to use any bolt pattern they desire. This feature is intended to make it easier for users to create mods and add-ons without having to completely redesign the body of the Chip-E. Overall, the Chip-E UEK has given the original Chip-E design new life by making it more expandable and modifiable. It has also provided a platform for future Science Olympiad or other robotic competitions, where tools and end-effectors can be easily added or removed as needed.