The Man Behind the Carnage: Who Owns Tombstone BattleBot?
The owner and creator of the iconic BattleBot Tombstone is none other than Ray Billings. He’s not just the owner, though; he’s the driving force, the chief designer, the master fabricator, and the pilot behind the spinning blade of destruction that has captivated audiences worldwide. Ray Billings is the heart and soul of Tombstone, and his passion for combat robotics is what makes the bot so formidable.
Ray Billings: The Architect of Annihilation
Ray Billings is more than just a competitor; he’s a legend in the world of combat robotics. His dedication to building and improving Tombstone is evident in every iteration of the bot. With over 15 years of experience in the arena, Billings has honed his skills, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in robot combat. He’s not just building a machine; he’s building a legacy. His approach to engineering, combined with his fearless driving, makes Tombstone a constant threat in the BattleBots arena. Billings’ influence extends beyond just his own bot. He’s respected throughout the community for his knowledge, his willingness to share his expertise, and his commitment to the sport. He exemplifies the spirit of BattleBots, where innovation and competition go hand-in-hand.
Tombstone: More Than Just a Robot
Tombstone is more than just a collection of metal and motors; it’s a reflection of Ray Billings’ personality and engineering prowess. Its aggressive design, powerful spinning blade, and relentless approach to combat have made it a fan favorite. Tombstone’s success is a testament to Billings’ dedication, his willingness to take risks, and his constant pursuit of perfection. Each iteration of the bot incorporates improvements and refinements based on lessons learned in previous battles. This iterative design process, coupled with Billings’ intimate knowledge of the bot’s capabilities and limitations, is what gives Tombstone its competitive edge.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Tombstone and Ray Billings
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to delve deeper into the world of Tombstone and its remarkable owner:
Why was Tombstone not in BattleBots 2023?
Ray Billings was unable to compete in the 2023 season of BattleBots due to needing surgery. This kept him from building and operating Tombstone during the filming schedule. Health comes first!
How much did Tombstone cost to build?
While precise figures are hard to pin down, Ray Billings has estimated that Tombstone cost somewhere between $10,000 and $15,000 to build. This figure would have significantly increased if he had paid someone to machine all the custom parts himself. His skills save him a lot of money.
Why did Tombstone withdraw from BattleBots in a particular season?
The provided text details that Ray Billings suffered an injury to his left index finger in November 2021, requiring therapy and surgery. While it mentions a loss to Tantrum, it does not confirm this loss caused a withdrawal in that particular season. Injuries are a part of any competition!
What was Ray Billings’ previous day job?
Before dedicating himself fully to combat robotics, Billings worked as a prison guard at Folsom State Prison for over a decade. He also taught computer networking at a college. This diverse background showcases his adaptability and skillset.
What is Ray Billings’ role with Tombstone?
Ray Billings is the designer, fabricator, and driver of Tombstone. He’s the mastermind behind every aspect of the robot, from its initial concept to its final execution in the BattleBots arena. He is Hardcore Robotics.
Has Tombstone ever won BattleBots?
While Tombstone has never won the Giant Nut, it reached the finals of World Championship I, where it lost to Bite Force by judges’ decision after losing its weapon due to overheated batteries. Despite not winning, Tombstone has earned a well deserved reputation as a fearsome contender.
Who is Ray Billings married to?
The information provided focuses on Sterling Ray Billings (1933-2011) and his marriages. There’s no information about Ray Billings’ (the BattleBots competitor) marital status.
How does BattleBots handle team compensation?
BattleBots provides a small stipend to help teams cover travel costs. They also offer a modest royalty to returning teams from international sales of the series. Competing in the sport is very costly!
What materials make up the BattleBots floor?
The BattleBots floor consists of multiple layers of thin metal, covered with thick paint, with gaps between plates and for features like the killsaws. It’s not ideal for magnetic adherence, despite being metal.
What types of weapons are prohibited in BattleBots?
BattleBots prohibits electrical, chemical, and other non-mechanical weapons. The exception is gas-based flamethrowers, which are permitted for showmanship. Explosives, liquids, and signal jammers are not allowed. Safety is a priority.
Why did Bite Force’s Paul Ventimiglia not compete in a specific BattleBots season?
Paul Ventimiglia decided not to compete ahead of World Championship V due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a personal decision related to health concerns during the time.
What is the range of cost for building a BattleBot?
Building a BattleBot can range from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on factors such as the type of bot, materials, components, prototyping, custom fabrication, and shipping. Complexity drives the cost.
What is the prize for winning BattleBots?
The winning team receives the Giant Nut trophy and a cash prize. In the second season of the ABC revival, the cash prize was $25,000. Bragging rights are priceless!
Where is BattleBots filmed?
BattleBots is generally filmed in its arena in Las Vegas.
What happened to Grant Imahara?
Grant Imahara, former Mythbuster, BattleBots champion, and judge, passed away suddenly at the age of 49. His loss was deeply felt by the community.
The Future of Tombstone
While Ray Billings’ absence was felt in the 2023 season, fans eagerly await his return. His ingenuity, dedication, and unwavering passion for combat robotics ensures that Tombstone will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the BattleBots arena. The future for this bot is bright.
The Games Learning Society and Innovation
The innovative spirit and engineering prowess seen in BattleBots align perfectly with the mission of the Games Learning Society. This organization explores the intersection of learning, games, and technology, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills that are essential in fields like robotics. Find out more by visiting GamesLearningSociety.org.