Overview
This was my first project with my university's combat robotics club. I was tasked with building a remote-controlled flamethrower for a BattleBots competition as a bit of extra flair. I had complete design freedom to choose the actuation method, fuel source, and ignition system, as long as the design followed BattleBots safety rules.
Approach
I chose butane because it was easy to source and could produce a large flame. For the actuation, I used a servo to press the back of the can, and designed an interchangeable 3D-printed nozzle so I could control the butane flow rate by changing the nozzle diameter. I also wanted the butane can to be easy to swap, so I went with an open mount that allowed me to slide the can in and out. To route the butane gas to the ignition, I used flame-resistant tubing secured with zip ties along its path.
Outcome
This project introduced me to 3D printing and custom mechanical design after graduating high school, while also teaching me how important it is to follow strict safety standards when working on potentially dangerous projects. If I were to build it again, I would use a more flame-resistant filament and do more to prevent butane leaks so the robot wouldn't risk catching fire internally.