Re: What type of drive train did you make this year?
 

Our drive train uses 4 CIM motors each powering our four mecanum wheels. Yes that right we built our own set of mecanum wheels. Our team built molds and poured 48 individual rollers. Here are some inventor file of the drive system. http://www.first.udsd.k12.pa.us/AIA2...eels/index.htm Here is a link to video of it driving sideways http://www.first.udsd.k12.pa.us/AIA2005/video.html The drive train is performing great. Royal Assault won the Delphi Driving Tomorrow's Technology Award at the Pittsburgh Regional. We will be at the Philly Regional in 2 weeks and at nationals so stop by the pits and check it out.

Re: What type of drive train did you make this year?
 

2 center drive using the kit gearboxes with 4 CIMs and 8 inch wheelchair wheels. Typical chain drive, with only a 15 tooth sprocket on the transmissions.

It's actually very easy to make center wheel drives working and turning well. All you really need are Delrin or similar material skids/idler wheels at all 4 corners, and a little care to balance the bot. It doesn't have to be a perfect 50/50 balance all around, but the closer you get the better.

Two wheels have some great advantages over even 6 wheel designs- chief of all is how simple and easy they are to make. If you ever get the chance, drive a decent two wheeled bot. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to get it where you want it at high speeds. It's the difference between a sports car and an old truck.

-Andy A.