Re: pic: 1671 swerve module 3.0
 

A thrust bearing is a bearing that is designed to support both radial load and axial load. Some are designed for more of one than the other. A Thrust bearing: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Se..._din728_ex.png

Re: pic: 1671 swerve module 3.0
 

Here is the link to the bearings we are using.
http://www.silverthin.com/11jsa.htm?part=JSA020
The part number is JSA020.

Thrust bearings are used against an axial force, meaning that the force is coming parallel to the shaft. So for instance with a swerve module the most likely force is going to come from a side hit, which is parallel to the shaft. Thrust bearings increase the strength of the module with the frame so that you can keep driving.

Re: pic: 1671 swerve module 3.0
 

1717 makes coaxial modules out of sheet, look at their design.

Re: pic: 1671 swerve module 3.0
 

Also look at their use and implementation of belting. The belt paths are pretty slick!

http://picasaweb.google.com/RoboticW...94820442400434