KamikaZ was a heavyweight robot which intended to apply for Series 5 of Robot Wars. It was designed by a pair of students as a Duke of Edinburgh project, with the objective of being funded by multiple sponsors.
Design[]
KamikaZ was a box-shaped, four-wheel drive robot inspired by future series champion Tornado. Each wheel measured 310mm in diameter according to the team, allowing the robot to run both ways up. Despite wanting to be nimble and speedy, only the front two wheels assisted the robot in turning. The large wheels would also protrude from the rear of the robot, preventing it from getting stuck on its back however also being exposed to other damaging weapons.[1]
- "We have thought about using 2 large wheels independently powered by two motors. This would have given very tight turning but not much control elsewhere. We have now decided on a 4WD power system with a front wheel turning system."
- — Team Gridlock explain their drive system
At the front of the robot, two horizontally mounted discs would spin in opposite directions to cause damage to opponents, and the entire robot was given a camouflage paint job in an attempt to receive sponsorship from the Army Cadets.[2]
It is unknown whether the robot was ever finished or whether Team Gridlock attempted to qualify for any future series, however KamikaZ would not appear on the show.
Etymology[]
The robot's name is a direct reference to the Kamikaze attackers of World War II, with the emphasis being placed on the Z in its Americanised pronunciation. The word itself translates from Japanese as "divine wind" or "spirit wind".
Series Record[]
Series | KamikaZ Series Record |
---|---|
The First Wars | Did not enter |
The Second Wars | Did not enter |
The Third Wars | Did not enter |
The Fourth Wars | Did not enter |
The Fifth Wars | Failed to qualify |
The Sixth Wars | Did not enter |
The Seventh Wars | Did not enter |
Series 8 | Did not enter |
Series 9 | Did not enter |
Series 10 | Did not enter |
References[]