Sky Net gets an Autopilot

This year's FIRST robotics challenge involves some very precise functions.  You need to grab either a big bouncy orange ball or a flat, fairly heavy lexan disc.  And then deliver them places.

Time is critical so you can't goof around.  Most teams are using some kind of velcro system or pneumatic pinchers.  We instead have a dual vacuum system.

It works well but you have to get suction onto the right spots.  Remarkably the build and software teams have found a way for the robot to autopilot right on in using vision tracking and a highly sensitive gyroscope.  It nails it every time.

Here's what it looks like in action.

https://www.facebook.com/avisautomata/videos/2533190903419020/

This is using special reflective targets but in principle it could be modified to seek out any known shape and color.  Sky Net smiles digitally and ponders its next move.....