Pitsco Education TETRIX MAX User manual

44715
R/C Builder’s Guide

Content advising by Paul Uttley.
Build creation and SolidWorks® Composer™ rendering by Tim Lankford.
Desktop publishing by Todd McGeorge.
©2021 Pitsco, Inc., 915 E. Jefferson, Pittsburg, KS 66762
All rights reserved. This product and related documentation are protected by copyright and are
distributed under licenses restricting their use, copying, and distribution. No part of this product
or related documentation may be reproduced in any form by any means without prior written
authorization of Pitsco, Inc.
All other product names mentioned herein might be the trademarks of their respective owners.
Check Pitsco.com/TETRIX-RC-Robotics-Set#resources for PDF updates of this guide4 V1.5
06/21

44715
Contents
Preface
Introduction...................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Safety Information......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Set Components
TETRIX® MAX R/C Robotics Set Components...............................................................................................................4-13
Setup/Construction Tips
TETRIX MAX R/C Motor Controller Wiring Illustrated............................................................................................. 14-15
Remote Control Setup ...............................................................................................................................................................16
1. Channel Placement.................................................................................................................................................................17
2. Tool Use........................................................................................................................................................................................18
3. Take Advantage of Design Features ......................................................................................................................... 19-20
4. Assembly of Specialty Parts ......................................................................................................................................... 21-22
Build Instructions
TETRIX® MAX RangerMAX Bot Assembly............................................................................................................. 23-50
TETRIX® MAX RangerMAX Bot Activities.............................................................................................................. 51-52
TETRIX® MAX MiniMAX Bot Assembly .................................................................................................................53-128
TETRIX® MAX MiniMAX Bot Activities............................................................................................................... 129-130
TETRIX® MAX RotoGrip Bot Assembly .............................................................................................................. 131-183
TETRIX® MAX RotoGrip Bot Activities............................................................................................................... 184-185
Glossary......................................................................................................................................................................................... 186

Introduction
Pitsco Education is pleased to bring you this TETRIX® MAX R/C Robotics Set Builder’s Guide. This resource
has been created to:
• Help introduce new users to the TETRIX MAX building system.
• Demonstrate how the building system can be used to create original, remote-controlled robot
designs and give inspiration for expanding beyond the provided builds.
• Provide step-by-step instructions that progressively guide users with little or no previous
experience to a comfortable level working within a robust, real-life, scalable building system.
• Build confidence and generate enthusiasm for the fields of engineering and robotics.
The TETRIX MAX Building System:
• Uses elements made from heavy-duty, aircraft-grade aluminum to maximize stability, durability,
and reliability.
• Uses powerful drive motors and accurate servo motors to provide a perfect balance between
power and control.
• Can be used with almost any programmable controller to create versatile, sophisticated robots
able to handle complicated tasks.
• Offers flexibility in build design and can be expanded with additional materials.
• Gives users the opportunity to master the concepts of wiring, motor control, and much more.
• Fosters teamwork, creativity, ingenuity, and persistence among users, groups, and students of all
experience and skill levels.
• Develops real-world engineering and problem-solving skills.
The TETRIX MAX R/C Robotics Set contains all the essential tools and hardware needed to enable users
to build all the robots shown in the builder’s guide one at a time.
Additional parts, tools, and elements can be utilized to create larger or more complex robots. These,
as well as other resources such as videos, technical information, alternative inspirational builds,
subassemblies, and activities, can be found at Pitsco.com.
Time Expectations:
The models in this guide are meant to progress in complexity in order to foster the growth of technical
building skills for the new or inexperienced user. Please keep that in mind when planning for build
time. Depending on user experience and skill level, each model should be able to be completed in
two 45- to 50-minute class periods. Specific time expectations for each model are given in the model
overview and are unique to that model.
2Preface
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Safety Information
Mechanical
• Keep fingers, hair, and loose articles of clothing clear of gears and moving parts.
• Never pick up the robot while it is moving or the servo motors are running.
• Remove any burrs caused by cutting the metal beams.
• Eye protection is always recommended when modifying material by cutting, filing, or sanding or
when operating mechanical devices with moving or rotating parts and assemblies.
Electrical
• Make sure the power is turned off when the robot is not in operation.
• Do not operate the robot in a wet environment.
• Always power down the robot before making any changes.
• Use caution when working with bare wires to avoid creating a short circuit situation.
• Route wires carefully and secure them if necessary to avoid damage to the wire or its insulation.
• Mount the battery pack and all electronic components securely.
Preface 3
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Note: In order to complete the three builds shown in this book
you must have the TETRIX MAX R/C Robotics Set (41990).
R/C Robotics Set
4Set Components
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

TETRIX MAX R/C Robotics Set Parts Index
Channels
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39065 TETRIX MAX 32 mm Channel ................................6
39066 TETRIX MAX 96 mm Channel ................................4
39067 TETRIX MAX 160 mm Channel ...............................4
39068 TETRIX MAX 288 mm Channel ...............................4
Servos & Hardware
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39060 TETRIX MAX Single Standard-Scale Servo Motor Bracket ....1
39593 TETRIX MAX Standard-Scale Pivot Arm with Bearing.........1
39197 TETRIX MAX Standard-Scale Servo Motor....................2
39081 Servo Extension..............................................2
39082 Servo Y Connector ...........................................1
41789 TETRIX MAX Standard Servo Mounting Kit...................2
39280 TETRIX MAX Adjustable Servo Bracket .......................2
DC Motors & Hardware
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39089 TETRIX MAX Motor Mount ...................................2
44260 TETRIX MAX TorqueNADO® Motor ...........................2
Tires & Wheels
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39055 TETRIX MAX 4" Wheel ........................................2
36466 TETRIX MAX 4" Omni Wheel Pack/Assembly .................2
Tools
Part No. Part Name Quantity
36404 4-in-1 Screwdriver ...........................................1
38001 TETRIX Wrench Set...........................................2
39104 TETRIX MAX Hex Key Pack ...................................4
40341 Miniature Ball-Point Hex Driver ..............................1
42991 2-in-1 Screwdriver ...........................................1
Plates & Brackets
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39073 TETRIX MAX Flat Building Plate ..............................2
39061 TETRIX MAX Flat Bracket .....................................6
39062 TETRIX MAX L Bracket........................................6
39281 TETRIX MAX Inside Corner Bracket...........................6
39270 TETRIX MAX Inside C Connector .............................6
41790 TETRIX MAX Adjustable Angle Corner Bracket ...............4
Flats
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39274 TETRIX MAX Flat 64 mm x 27 mm............................2
39273 TETRIX MAX Flat 96 mm x 27 mm............................2
39272 TETRIX MAX Flat 160 mm x 27 mm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
39271 TETRIX MAX Flat 288 mm x 27 mm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
41791 TETRIX MAX Adjustable Angle Flat Bracket ..................6
Axles, Hubs, & Spacers
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39079 TETRIX MAX Motor Hub......................................2
39172 TETRIX MAX Axle Hub........................................6
39092 TETRIX MAX Axle Set Collar ..................................6
39088 TETRIX MAX 100 mm Axle ...................................6
39091 TETRIX MAX Bronze Bushing............................... 24
39090 TETRIX MAX Gear Hub Spacer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
39100 TETRIX MAX Axle Spacer 1/8" ..............................12
39101 TETRIX MAX Axle Spacer 3/8" ................................6
39387 TETRIX MAX Flat Round Spacer ..............................6
Gearing
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39028 TETRIX MAX Gear 40-Tooth ..................................4
39086 TETRIX MAX Gear 80-Tooth ..................................4
Bars & Angles
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39070 TETRIX MAX 288 mm Flat Bar ................................2
39072 TETRIX MAX 144 mm Angle..................................2
39071 TETRIX MAX 288 mm Angle..................................2
Posts & Standos
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39102 TETRIX Stand-O Post 6-32 x 1" ...........................12
39103 TETRIX Stand-O Post 6-32 x 2" ...........................12
39107 TETRIX Stand-O Post 6-32 x 32 mm....................... 12
41253 TETRIX Stand-O Post 6-32 x 16 mm....................... 12
Electronics & Control
Part No. Part Name Quantity
40239 TETRIX Wireless Joystick Gamepad System
with Receiver ................................................1
45849 TETRIX MAX R/C Motor Controller
with 3-Pin Channel Input Cables .............................1
43169 TETRIX On/O Switch Kit.....................................1
Battery & Charger
Part No. Part Name Quantity
38009 TETRIX MAX Battery Clip .....................................2
39057 TETRIX MAX 12-volt 3,000 mAh Battery ......................1
41399 Global NiMH Battery Pack Charger...........................1
Nuts, Screws, & Fasteners
Part No. Part Name Quantity
39094 Kep Nut ...................................................100
39097 Socket Head Cap Screw 6-32 x 1/2" .......................100
39098 Socket Head Cap Screw 6-32 x 5/16"......................100
39111 Button Head Cap Screw 3/8"...............................50
31902 Zip Tie......................................................12
Set Components 5
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

TETRIX MAX Hardware Components Overview
The following mechanical parts overview includes elements from the TETRIX MAX R/C Robotics Set.
TETRIX MAX structural elements are identified by length. For example, a 32 mm channel or a 288 mm
flat bar. Use the centimeter ruler at the bottom of this spread to measure part lengths.
32 mm Channel 39065
96 mm Channel 39066
160 mm Channel 39067
288 mm Channel 39068
Structural Elements
6Set Components
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

288 mm Flat Bar 39070
144 mm Angle 39072
288 mm Angle 39071
Flat Building Plate 39073
Flat Bracket 39061
L Bracket 39062
Inside Corner Bracket 39281
Inside C Connector 39270
Adjustable Angle Corner Bracket 41790
Set Components 7
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Flat 64 mm x 27 mm 39274
Flat 96 mm x 27 mm 39273
Flat 160 mm x 27 mm 39272
Flat 288 mm x 27 mm 39271
Adjustable Angle Flat Bracket 41791
Flat Round Spacer 39387
Structural Elements
Stand-Off Post 6-32 x 1" 39102
Stand-Off Post 6-32 x 2" 39103
Stand-Off Post 6-32 x 32 mm 39107
Stand-Off Post 6-32 x 16 mm 41253
Kep Nut 39094
Socket Head Cap Screw 6-32 x 1/2" 39097
Socket Head Cap Screw 6-32 x 5/16" 39098
Button Head Cap Screw 3/8" 39111
8Set Components
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Motor Hub 39079
Axle Hub 39172
Axle Set Collar 39092
100 mm Axle 39088
Bronze Bushing 39091
Gear Hub Spacer 39090
Axle Spacer 1/8" 39100
Axle Spacer 3/8" 39101
Motion Elements
Gear 40-Tooth 39028
Gear 80-Tooth 39086
Set Components 9
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Motion Elements
Motor Mount 39089
TorqueNADO Motor 44260
4" Wheel 39055
4" Omni Wheel Pack/Assembly 36466
10 Set Components
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Single Standard-Scale Servo Motor Bracket 39060
Standard-Scale Pivot Arm with Bearing 39593
Standard-Scale Servo Motor 39197
Servo Extension 39081
Servo Y Connector 39082
Standard Servo Mounting Kit 41789
Adjustable Servo Bracket 39280
Motion Elements
Set Components 11
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Wrench Set 38001
Power, Tools, and Accessories Elements
Battery Clip 38009
12-volt 3,000 mAh Battery 39057
4-in-1 Screwdriver 36404
2-in-1 Screwdriver 42991
Hex Key Pack 39104
Miniature Ball-Point Hex Driver 40341
Zip Tie 31902
Global NiMH Battery Pack Charger 41399
12 Set Components
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Wireless Joystick Gamepad System with Receiver 40239
On/Off Switch Kit 43169
Control Elements
R/C Motor Controller with
3-Pin Channel Input Cables 45849
Set Components 13
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Setup/Construction Tips
TETRIX MAX R/C Motor Controller Wiring Illustrated
Tank-Drive Mode
Input 1 connects here
Input 2 connects here
14 Setup/Construction Tips
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Input 1 connects here
Input 2 connects here
Single-Stick Mode
Setup/Construction Tips 15
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

Remote Control Setup
Your TETRIX MAX robot is controlled by a standard 2.4
GHz remote control and an accompanying receiver
mounted to the robot. Transmitters are connected
to specific receivers, allowing multiple transceiver
combinations to be used in the same area.
Transmitter and Receiver Connection Procedure:
The wireless gamepad transmitter must be linked to the receiver with a unique ID code in order to
function properly. To do this, follow these steps.
1. Make sure the transmitter is switched OFF.
2. Install four AA batteries in the transmitter. Connect the battery pack to the receiver; the red
LED will be ashing.
3. Press the CONNECT button on the side of the receiver. The red LED will change to a rapid
ashing rate.
4. Switch the power slide switch on the transmitter ON.
5. Press and hold down the transmitter’s CONNECT push button.
6. The red LED on the receiver will stop ashing. Release the transmitter’s CONNECT button.
7. The transmitter and receiver are now connected and ready for operation.
When the TETRIX MAX R/C Motor Controller is powered on, you should see the LED flash three times.
The LED will then either stay on or go off depending on which mode the controller is in. After this is
complete, you can adjust the trimmer wheels on the gamepad as desired.
The direction of movement for motors and servos depends on how they are mounted. To reverse the
direction of rotation for a motor or servo, use a small screwdriver to change the position of the NOR/
REV switches on the wireless gamepad. Caution: Do not use a pencil to adjust the NOR/REV switch
position. The material used for pencil lead conducts electricity and could damage your controller.
Wireless
Joystick
Gamepad
System with
Receiver 40239
4-channel wireless
receiver from Wireless
Joystick Gamepad
System 40239
WARNING: Do not connect the MAX 12 VDC power
supply directly to the wireless receiver. The 12 VDC
power supply must be connected to the TETRIX MAX
R/C Motor Controller. Power to the receiver will be
transferred through the 3-pin channel input cables
that connect the receiver to the motor controller. See
the wiring diagram on page 14 or 15.
16 Setup/Construction Tips
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

1. Channel Placement
Planning for easy access to fasteners will make the building experience better for everyone involved.
As a general rule, when you create any substructure, it’s a good idea to only snug nuts and screws until
you are sure all elements fit together. Then, go back and tighten everything before moving on to the
next step.
A little planning and forethought about how structural elements go together can make your building
experience easier, quicker, and more efficient.
In the figure above, both structures have similar building surfaces to work from but have different
accessibility for fastening the kep nuts on the screws. Easy access is preferred. Avoid difficult access
if possible.
Setup/Construction Tips 17
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.

2. Tool Use
Proper use of the basic tools makes the building process smoother and more enjoyable and saves time.
18 Setup/Construction Tips
© 2021 Pitsco, Inc. All rights reserved.