Background
This project involves designing a vehicle that can transport a water bottle up the stairs outside Engineering Gateway as part of a competition between multiple MAE 151A teams. The main challenge is creating a system that can "climb" stairs through ground-based locomotion rather than aerial methods. The vehicle must successfully transport the water bottle up all stairs, with performance measured primarily by speed. The water bottle can be loaded and unloaded manually, but the climbing process must be autonomous or remotely operated without physical tethering. This project integrates mechanical engineering principles including vehicle dynamics, traction optimization, obstacle navigation, and robust mechanical design.
Goal
Design, build, and test a rover that successfully transports a water bottle up the Engineering Gateway stairs faster than competing teams.
Objectives
Fall 2025 Quarter
Weeks 1–2 – Project selection, team formation, and initial research on stair geometry, wheel traction, and prior design concepts
Weeks 3–4 – Define design requirements (payload, step geometry, clearance, speed, stability) and draft preliminary chassis/wheel concepts
Weeks 5–6 – Generate design variants, conduct trade studies and FEA analysis, and present findings at Preliminary Design Review (PDR)
Weeks 7–8 – Complete detailed CAD modeling, finalize bill of materials (BOM), order components, and begin chassis fabrication
Weeks 9–10 – Assemble prototype, conduct bench tests and preliminary stair trials, and collect performance data
Winter 2026 Quarter
Weeks 1–2 – Integrate Fall feedback and refine mechanical design (mounting, traction, balance)
Weeks 3–4 – Integrate electronics, power systems, and control board; test autonomous/remote control
Weeks 5–6 – Conduct full-scale stair-climbing trials on Engineering Gateway stairs
Weeks 7–8 – Optimize gear ratios, motor torque, and power efficiency; perform endurance testing (3+ full ascents)
Weeks 9–10 – Finalize poster, report, and presentation materials; participate in final competition and demonstration
More Information
Specifications:
Chassis: Flat-plate frame with bolted motor mounts and bottle mount.
Wheels: Four 9 in diameter rubber or foam-filled wheels chosen for step clearance and traction.
Payload: Standard 500 mL water bottle (~0.5 kg).
Drive System: Independent wheel motors; torque sized from required stair impulse.
Documentation: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bkTa_vCqQXB9CdM0y0aopTiV9cjPZcw4?usp=drive_link
Design Approach: Our rover utilizes a flat plate chassis design that provides structural rigidity while minimizing weight. The large wheel configuration is critical for our stair-climbing strategy, allowing the vehicle to maintain contact and generate sufficient torque to overcome each step. We are exploring various wheel sizes, tread patterns, and suspension configurations to optimize performance.
Key Technical Challenges:
- Wheel sizing and geometry for optimal stair engagement
- Power transmission system capable of high torque output
- Center of gravity management to prevent tipping
- Material selection balancing strength and weight
Contact Information:
Nolan Haugh - haughm@uci.edu
Kainoa Crow - kainoac@uci.edu
Alan Duong - alanpd@uci.edu
Matthew Scott - matthms1@uci.edu
Sponsor:
Mohamed Shorbagy - mshorbgy@uci.edu