Force Knight Battlebot

In this tutorial, I will guide you through building the Force Knight, a vertical spinner antweight battle bot. This design is compact, powerful, and makes use of the SCAR Drive Kit for convenience and affordability.

Overview of the Design:

1. Type: Vertical Spinner
2. Key Features: Compact frame, reliable components, and a high-performance weapon system.
3. Customization: While I used a different battery for my build, this tutorial follows the SCAR Drive Kit specifications for better pricing and accessibility. As a result, you may need to slightly adjust the wire lengths based on your battery and setup.

What You'll Learn:

1. How to assemble the drive system, weapon system, and electronics.
2. How to use tools like a soldering iron, a Dremel, and a 3D printer to prepare and assemble components.
3. Tips and tricks to ensure your bot is durable and battle-ready.

This tutorial is beginner-friendly but assumes basic familiarity with soldering and assembly. Let’s get started with the tools and parts you’ll need.

Tools

3D Printer – For creating the robot's body and custom parts using ABS filament.

Soldering Iron – For connecting wires to motors, ESCs, and other electronics.

Allen Wrenches – For assembling screws and bolts during construction.

Parts

SCAR PLANT Drive Kit (includes):

1. Battery
2. Rims for the wheels
3. Drive motors
4. Heat sinks
5. Screws
6. Malenki HV (controller board)

FingerTech Power Switch – A compact switch to control power to the robot.

M5 Hex Nuts – For securing components like the weapon and motor mounts.

M5x12mm Screws – To mount various parts of the robot, including the weapon and motors.

Flange Ball Bearings – For stabilizing the weapon motor and ensuring smooth rotation.

4-Pack of Weapon Motors – High-speed motors for powering the weapon.

Weapon Motor ESC – Electronic speed controller for the weapon motor.

ABS Filament – For 3D printing the robot’s body and structural components.

Wires – For connecting all electrical components, including motors, ESCs, and the power switch.

FlySky FS-i6X – Radio transmitter for controlling the robot.

3d printed parts

Page with all the files needed

Alternate parts list

Alternate Battery – If you want to use the same type of battery I used but better, you can opt for this one

If you opt for the Scar Weapon Kit, it includes:

1. M5 Hex Nuts and Screws
2. Weapon Motor ESC
3. Weapon Motor

To begin, prepare the power system by setting up the FingerTech power switch and the battery connector. Since neither comes with wires, you’ll need to add them first. Note: If you're using the battery included in the SCAR Drive Kit, you'll need to use a JST connector instead of the one I used for the alternate battery.

Adding Wires to the Battery Connector:

1. Solder a black wire (negative) to the negative terminal of the battery connector.
2. Length: 37 mm
3. Solder a red wire (positive) to the positive terminal of the battery connector.
4. Length: 45 mm

Adding Wires to the Power Switch:

1. Solder the 37 mm black wire from the battery connector to the input terminal of the FingerTech power switch.
2. Solder another black wire to the output terminal of the power switch.
3. Length: 55 mm

Secure the Connections with Heat Shrink Tubing:

1. Cover all solder joints with heat shrink tubing.
2. Use a heat gun or lighter to shrink the tubing, ensuring a snug fit for safety.

Test the Connections:

1. Verify all connections are secure by gently tugging on the wires.
2. Ensure all solder joints are properly insulated with no exposed metal.

Note:

If you are using the battery that comes with the SCAR Drive Kit, replace the battery connector I used with a JST connector to ensure compatibility. Adjust wire lengths as necessary based on your specific setup.

In this step, you will prepare the area for the FingerTech power switch. Take care during this process to avoid over-cutting, as it can damage the structural integrity of the body.

1. Start Dremeling Carefully:
2. Use a Dremel tool with a cutting or grinding attachment to slowly carve out the marked area.
3. Work gradually to avoid accidentally removing more material than needed.
4. Avoid Over-Cutting:
5. Pay close attention as you approach the edges of the marked area.
6. If the piece you are cutting begins to loosen, stop and test-fit the power switch to ensure the fit is snug without removing too much material.

In this step, you will insert the M3 nuts from the SCAR Drive Kit into the designated spots on the bottom of the robot. These nuts will provide secure mounting points for screws.

1. Prepare the M3 Nuts:
2. Gather the M3 nuts included in the SCAR Drive Kit.
3. Identify the Mounting Locations:
4. Locate the designated holes on the bottom of the bot where the M3 nuts will be inserted.
5. Insert the Nuts:
6. Place each M3 nut into its corresponding hole from the bottom of the bot.
7. Ensure the nuts sit flush with the surface and are aligned properly.

In this step, you will install the M3 heat inserts from the SCAR Drive Kit into the designated spots on the robot's body. These inserts allow for secure and reusable screw connections.

1. Prepare the Heat Inserts and Tools:
2. Gather the M3 heat inserts from the SCAR Drive Kit.
3. Use a soldering iron or a heat insert press for this step. If using a soldering iron.
4. Position the Inserts:
5. Place an M3 heat insert into the designated hole in the robot’s body as shown in the image.
6. Make sure the insert is aligned and sits flush with the hole.
7. Heat the Insert:
8. Gently press the soldering iron or heat insert press against the top of the insert.
9. Apply steady pressure to push the insert into the hole as it heats. The plastic will soften, allowing the insert to sink in.
10. Stop at the Correct Depth:
11. Once the heat insert is flush with or slightly below the surface of the plastic, remove the heat source.
12. Hold the insert in place for a few seconds to allow the plastic to cool and solidify.

In this step, you will assemble the wheels by attaching the rims to the smaller set of wheels from the SCAR Drive Kit.

1. Prepare the Smaller Set of Wheels:
2. Take the smaller set of wheels from the SCAR Drive Kit and set them aside for later use.
3. Apply Super Glue to the Rims:
4. Apply a thin, even layer of super glue to the rims of the wheels.
5. Be careful not to use too much glue, as it may spill over onto other areas.
6. Attach the Rims to the Wheels:
7. Quickly place the rims onto the wheel, ensuring they are aligned properly.
8. Press them down gently to ensure a firm bond.
9. Allow the Glue to Dry:
10. Set the wheels aside and let the glue fully dry according to the instructions on the glue packaging.
11. Check for Secure Attachment:
12. Once the glue is dry, check that the rims are securely attached to the wheels before proceeding.

Since the wheels don’t come with wires, you’ll need to add them first.

1. Adding Wires to the Motors:
2. Solder two wires (positive and negative) to each motor.
3. Recommended wire lengths:
4. Left motor-to-motor: 83 mm
5. Right motor-to-motor: 83 mm

Now that the motors are soldered to the wheels, it's time to connect them to the Malenki Nano controller.

For the wiring:

1. On the left side, solder a 90 mm wire from the bottom motor to the Malenki Nano.
2. On the right side, solder a 40 mm wire from the bottom motor to the Malenki Nano.

Ensure the wires are securely soldered to the correct terminals on the Malenki Nano, matching the positive and negative connections. Take care to avoid creating any short circuits.

1. Prepare the Motor Wires:
2. Strip a small amount of insulation from each motor wire.
3. Tin the exposed wires with solder to make the connection easier.
4. Solder Banana Plugs to the Motor Wires:
5. Slide heat shrink tubing onto each wire before soldering.
6. Solder the banana plugs to the motor wires (ensure the connections are clean and secure).
7. Use heat shrink tubing to cover the solder joints for protection.
8. Connect Banana Plugs to the ESC Wires:
9. Push the banana plugs firmly into their respective connectors then solder them and make good joints

Prepare the ESC Wires:

1. Tin the ESC wires if necessary to ensure clean solder joints.
2. Ensure the signal wire and power wires (red and black) are ready for connection.
3. cut the small black wire because it is not needed

Connect the Signal Wire to the Malenki:

1. Solder the signal wire which is the small white wire from the ESC to the appropriate signal pin on the Malenki Nano.

Solder the Power Wires to the Malenki:

1. Solder the red power wire from the ESC to the Malenki's positive power input pin.
2. Solder the black power wire from the ESC to the Malenki's ground pin.

Complete the power connections by attaching the power switch to the Malenki Nano.

1. Solder Output Wires:
2. Solder the 55 mm black wire from the power switch to the Malenki Nano’s ground terminal.
3. Solder the 45 mm red wire from the battery connector to the Malenki Nano’s positive terminal.

In this step, you will install the M5 hex nut into the right motor arm. This nut will provide a secure threading point for the M5x12mm screw that holds the weapon in place.

1. Locate the Nut Slot in the Right Motor Arm:
2. Identify the designated slot in the right motor arm where the M5 hex nut will be inserted.
3. Ensure the area is clean and free from debris.
4. Insert the M5 Hex Nut:
5. Take an M5 hex nut from either the SCAR Weapon Kit or another source.
6. Push the nut into the slot firmly until it is seated snugly.
7. If the fit is tight, apply even pressure to ensure the nut is fully inserted.
8. Check Alignment:
9. Ensure the hex nut is aligned properly with the hole so the screw can thread smoothly.
10. Prepare the M5x12mm Screw:
11. The screw next to the nut is an M5x12mm screw. Keep it handy for when you secure the motor or other components.

In this step, you will install the 105ZZ flanged bearing (5x10x4mm) into the weapon. This bearing ensures smooth and stable rotation during operation.

1. Prepare the Bearing and Weapon:
2. Take the 105ZZ flanged bearing from either the SCAR Weapon Kit or another source.
3. Identify the side of the weapon where the motor does not mount. This is the side where the bearing will be inserted.
4. Align the Bearing:
5. Position the bearing over the designated hole on the weapon. Ensure the flange is facing outward and aligns with the edges of the hole.
6. Insert the Bearing:
7. Press the bearing firmly into the hole.
8. If the fit is tight, you may need to apply consistent, even pressure to push it into place. Avoid using excessive force that could damage the bearing or weapon.

In this step, you will install the weapon motor into the weapon. Proper insertion ensures the motor is secure and aligned for optimal performance.

1. Prepare the Motor and Weapon:
2. Take the weapon motor and the weapon assembly (with the bearing already installed).
3. Identify the side of the weapon designed for the motor (opposite the bearing side).
4. Align the Motor:
5. Position the motor over the motor mounting hole in the weapon. Ensure the motor's shaft aligns with the center hole of the weapon.
6. Insert the Motor:
7. Gently push the motor into the weapon.
8. Apply even pressure until the motor is fully seated. You should see little to no black from the edge of the motor, with mostly the red portion of the motor visible.
9. Check for Proper Seating:
10. Verify that the motor is securely in place and flush with the weapon.

In this step, you will mount the motor and weapon assembly onto the left weapon arm. Proper alignment and secure fastening are critical for stable operation.

1. Prepare the Components:
2. Take the motor and weapon assembly and the left weapon arm.
3. Ensure the wires from the motor are accessible and ready to route through the hole in the side of the weapon arm.
4. Align the Motor:
5. Position the motor on the left weapon arm so that the holes on the motor align with the mounting holes in the arm.
6. Align the motor wires so they pass through the designated hole in the side of the weapon arm.
7. Apply Loctite to the Holes:
8. Apply a small amount of Loctite to the plastic threads in the weapon arm to prevent the screws from loosening during operation.
9. Be careful not to use too much Loctite, as it may seep into unwanted areas.
10. Fasten the Motor to the Weapon Arm:
11. Use M3x5mm or M3x6mm screws to secure the motor to the weapon arm.
12. Tighten the screws evenly to ensure the motor is firmly attached and properly aligned.
13. Verify the Installation:
14. Check that the motor and weapon are securely mounted to the weapon arm.
15. Ensure the motor shaft spins freely without obstruction, and the wires are routed neatly through the hole.

In this step, you will install the wheel armor onto the robot's body. Proper alignment and application of force are necessary to secure the armor in place.

1. Prepare the Armor and Body:
2. Take the wheel armor pieces and the robot’s body.
3. Ensure the tracks on the body where the armor will be mounted are clean and free of debris.
4. Align the Armor with the Tracks:
5. Position the wheel armor over the tracks on the body, ensuring it is aligned correctly.
6. Double-check that the armor orientation matches the intended design for full coverage.
7. Push the Armor into Place:
8. Place the robot body on a flat, stable surface to provide support.
9. Apply firm, even pressure to push the armor down onto the tracks. This may require some force, so take care to avoid bending or damaging the armor or body.

In this step, you will attach the right arm to the robot's body. Proper alignment and the correct screws are essential to ensure a secure fit and proper functionality.

1. Prepare the Right Arm and Body:
2. Take the right arm and the robot’s body.
3. Ensure all holes in the arm and body are clean and properly aligned with each other.
4. Align the Right Arm:
5. Position the right arm against the body so that the mounting holes line up.
6. Ensure the front of the arm aligns with the armor to help secure it during this step.
7. Insert and Fasten the Screws:
8. Bottom Holes: Use M3x12 mm screws to secure the bottom of the arm to the body. Tighten them evenly to ensure a snug fit.
9. Front Holes: Use M3x16 mm screws for the front holes. These screws should also align with the armor, helping to mount it securely to the body.
10. Back Hole: Use M3x6 mm screws to secure the back hole of the arm to the body.
11. Verify Stability:
12. Check that all screws are tightened evenly and the right arm is securely mounted to the body.
13. Ensure the arm does not wobble or shift and that the armor is properly supported by the front screws.

In this step, you will assemble the remaining components, secure the electronics in the body, and ensure everything is properly positioned and protected. Refer to the provided 3D model instructions if you need additional clarification on placements.

1. Attach the Left Arm and Weapon Motor:

1. Mount the left arm onto the robot's body in the same way you attached the right arm.
2. Secure the weapon motor to the left arm, ensuring it is tightly fastened and aligned correctly.

2. Install the Drive Motors and Wheels:

1. Attach the drive motors with the wheels already mounted.
2. Position the drive motors into their designated slots in the body, ensuring they are secure and properly aligned for smooth operation.

3. Insert the Power Switch:

1. Place the FingerTech power switch into the slot you dremeled in an earlier step.
2. Secure the switch by applying hot glue around it to hold it firmly in place. Be cautious to avoid glue on the switch's moving parts.

4. Position the Weapon ESC:

1. Place the weapon ESC on the bottom of the left side of the robot's interior.
2. Ensure the ESC is securely mounted using double-sided tape, screws, or zip ties to prevent movement during operation.

5. Install the Malenki Nano:

1. Position the Malenki Nano controller on top of the weapon ESC.
2. Ensure there is sufficient space for the wires to connect properly and that the components are firmly secured.

6. Connect the Weapon Motor Wires to the ESC:

1. Connect the wires from the weapon motor to the wires from the ESC.
2. Wrap the connections with electrical tape to insulate and protect them from short circuits.
3. Tuck the connected wires neatly into the body to prevent interference with other components.

7. Test the Placement with the Lid:

1. Place the lid on top of the robot to verify that all components fit properly.
2. Make adjustments to the positions of the components as necessary to ensure the lid can be screwed on securely without pinching wires or obstructing any parts.

8. Secure the Lid:

1. Once everything fits correctly and the internal components are in their final configuration, screw the lid into place.
2. This section of the lid will rarely need to be opened after assembly, so ensure all components are correctly positioned and secured before finalizing.