Test Boxes
Effective full-combat robots are too dangerous to be tested except in a properly constructed enclosure. A good enclosure is designed to protect people from injury and death, and property from damage and destruction. Common hazards are:
- Debris, which can fly great distances in moments
- Fire and flame from batteries, circuit failure, or miswiring
- Fragmentation of robots and test targets
At Events
Many builders only test their bots at competitive events, which allow access to a prepared combat arena at specified times, or by request. Large robots should only be tested in such circumstances. Some events also have one or more test boxes available. Strictly follow event rules for their use, including closing and locking the lid before each use, and opening only when safe.
Outdoor Testing
Historically some robots have been tested outdoors in the open air, a great distance from people and buildings alike. There is still huge danger from flying and falling debris, so this is not recommended. A shattered spinning-weapon blade is especially dangerous.
Test Boxes
In general, small robots (insectweight, 3 pound and under) can be checked in relatively small test boxes. Instructions for building some are linked below.
- Palm Beach Bots
- Just 'Cuz Robotics video guide
- Team Skorpios Builder Blog with BattleBots stories
- Near Chaos: Compact, Portable Test Box
- FingerTech Safety Guide, test box is at the bottom
This list is not an endorsement of these designs. Follow arena construction guidelines at SPARC.Tools. Adequate thickness of the polycarbonate windows is crucial!