ZOTBotics' Introductory Makerspace (ZIMS)

Summary

ZIMS is the largest club within the ZOTBotics Network and serves as UCI's premiere gateway into robotics and engineering. Since ZOTBotics was founded in 2017, it has grown into a community of over 1,000 members spanning 10+ majors. Unlike most technical organizations at UCI, ZIMS requires no application, interviews, or prior experience.

Beginning in Fall 2026, ZIMS will feature 3 levels of projects: the Hexapod, 5-axis Robot Arm, and Self-Leveling Anteater Project (SLAP).

ZIMS project members automatically gain access to our fully student-run makerspace at the Engineering and Computing Trailers (ECT) room 12, which includes access to over twenty-five 3D printers and all of the power tools necessary to complete any engineering project, including any ZIMS or personal/team projects. This year, we're implementing an access card system to facilitate members' usage of the makerspace. Project members get their own access cards for free and general members can buy access for a small quarterly fee.

Current Work / Recent Updates

Project sign-ups close Friday, October 9th at 11:59pm.

Project levels begin meeting Week 3!

Level 1 — (1.5 quarters) 2 hours/per week commitment

Mondays, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Mondays, 4:00 - 6:00 PM
Wednesdays, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Thursdays, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Level 2 — (3 quarter) 4-5 hours/per week commitment:

Fridays, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Level 3 — (1-3+ quarters) 8 hours/per week commitment

Meeting times set by team.

AI Project — Stay tuned for more information closer to Winter 2027

Team Structure

Level 1: Hexapod

Focus: Intro to manufacturing, prototyping, & Embedded Basics

Step into robotics with a build that connects foundational engineering and hands-on manufacturing from scratch.

Gain hands-on experience with 3D printing, laser cutting power tools, and CNC fabrication.
Assemble mechanical linkages.
Intro to programming and motor control logic featuring a Raspberry Pi.

Level 2: 5-axis Robot Arm

Focus: Kinematics & Factory Automation

Bridge mechanical design and factory automation through precision multi-axis robotic manipulation.

Project focuses on forward and inverse kinematics.
Learning modern industrial automation and robotic manipulation being operated in the real world.
Grouped up in teams of 8–10 to design & develop a multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm.

Level 3: Self-Leveling Anteater Project (SLAP)

Focus: Dynamic Control & Quadruped Systems

Tackle dynamic control and complex integration on an active quadruped robot.

Get the opportunity to choose between three sub-teams: mechanical, electrical, & software.
Members can design high-load chassis structures, engineer custom leg linkages, and optimal dynamic actuation assemblies.
Work with reliable power distribution networks and high-current motor drivers.