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Teacher Toolbox icon Teacher Toolbox - Facilitating the Build

In this Seek section, groups will add the Bumper Switch to simulate an E-stop to their Workcell build.

What the Teacher Will Do:

  • Tell students get into their groups with their assigned Workcells.
  • Instruct groups to follow the Build Instructions linked on this page.
  • As groups are building, circle the room and assist as needed.

Go to the V5 Workcell Educator Certification for additional suggestions on facilitating the build.

Select the button below for the V5 Workcell Lab 2 Build Instructions.

Lab 2 Build

Build Instructions

Port Configuration

In order for the arm mounted on the Workcell to work as intended, each joint has a potentiometer and motor that will need to be plugged into its assigned port. The breakdown of where to insert each of these cables is covered in the Lab 1 Build Instructions. This 3D model and chart is provided as an additional reference for guidance to ensure each motor and potentiometer is connected correctly before moving on with the Lab, as this is crucial to the arm's movement.

If you are using the Standard Config, each joint has a specific port assigned to it (as seen in the table below). If you are using a Custom Config, each joint can be assigned to your desired port. The Potentiometers will go into the lettered, 3-Wire Ports and the Motors will go into the numbered, smart ports.

Joint Number Motor - Smart Port Potentiometer - 3-Wire Port
1 1 A
2 2 B
3 3 C
4 4 D

Measuring and Making Your Own Cables

As you build your Workcell, you may want to make your own customized V5 Smart Cables instead of using the pre-determined sized cables. To do so, follow the instructions in the Crimping Tool Knowledge Base Article. For help with measuring these cuts, as well as measuring many different pieces in the VEX V5 ecosystem, view this article for information on how to Use the Printable VEX V5 Parts Ruler.

Installing V5 Workcell Rubber Bands

Installing the rubber bands on the Workcell is crucial for reliable and repeatable movements of the arm. Think of these rubber bands as the muscle of the Workcell. Installing these rubber bands correctly ensures that your Workcell will function as intended. If you notice that your V5 Workcell’s arm is not moving accurately, shaking, or generally not moving in a smooth manner, the rubber bands may not be installed correctly, or at all. View this article from the VEX Library for helpful tips and tricks, as well as animations for how to install your rubber bands.

Additional Devices:

Teacher Tips icon Teacher Tips

  • Use the open ended wrench to hold the nylock nut in place while screwing in the star drive screw.
  • Remind students that the Bumper Switch is plugged into Port E. They can remember this by thinking "E for emergency stop."

  • Make sure students are placing their Bumper Switch on the Workcell in the correct orientation, so the wires are directed towards the V5 Brain.

For more tips and guidance while building, go to the V5 Workcell Educator Certification.