A shakedown test is a full, real-world trial of your robot designed to uncover weaknesses in hardware, wiring, and software before a match. Unlike individual component testing, shakedown tests simulate the stresses of actual gameplay.
Even well-designed robots can fail under the combination of:
- High-speed movement
- Heavy collisions and tackles
- Vibration and cable tension
- Rapid power cycling
Shakedown tests reveal problems that smaller tests or simulations might miss, reducing the risk of runaways during real matches.
Shakedown tests should cover multiple stress points:
- Mechanical stress
- Collisions with walls or bumpers
- Pushing or being pushed by other robots
- Vibration from motors and impacts
- Electrical stress
- Power cycling the robot
- Simulating voltage dips
- Testing connector and wire stability
- Software stress
- Rapid command changes
- Communication loss or delays
- Force watchdog or timeout triggers
- Conduct tests in a controlled, open area
- Use a reduced speed if possible for initial trials
- Keep a wireless or physical emergency stop within reach
- Observe all wiring, connectors, and mechanical components for signs of wear
During shakedown tests:
- Motors should stop safely on faults
- Connections should remain secure
- Software safeguards (watchdogs, timeout logic, brownout handling) must operate correctly
If any unsafe behavior occurs, stop testing immediately and address the issue.