[quinxorin]

Originally Posted by Leav

Hello,

My first reaction to the game animation was:

• Need to collect balls? wide base might be a good idea. (more room for roller)
• Need to have 3 robots on the ramp, or more room for error with 2 robots? wide base might be a good idea. (takes up less space when driving forward)
• Need to go over a bump? 4wd could be a good idea (thinking of breakaway here, each wheel goes over independantly)

Most (all?) wide-base chasis' I've seen have been in 2009, but that doesn't give me a good idea of its manuverability.

so I'd love to get some:

• videos of 4wd wide base on carpet with non-slick wheels
• comments from people who have implemented 4wd wide drive
• comments on the general idea of using 4wd wide base in 2012

Always hoping to learn somthing new!
Thanks!
-Leav


summary of links from this thread:

• frc1918 had 4wd in 2010 (actually 8wd, but only the outer 4 touch the ground) closeup video, and BlueAlliance page for that year. Thanks Ike!

I am thinking 4WD is the way to go this year, but am not sure whether to make it long or wide. We did a 4wd wide in 2004, 2009, and several other years, and it works great. It's nice and mobile (though not as much as an omnidirecitonal drive train like mecanum). The increased width between the wheel lines decreases the friction while turning, while retaining the same pushing force and sideways friction. The axis of rotation is centered in the middle of the robot. It's good for pushing too, if done correctly. In 2009, we had traction control, and the combination of drive train, sensors, and software allowed us to basically push any robot we chose. It was nice. The only concern is the chance to fall over backwards if accelerating suddenly. That can be remedied by making sure heavy components are at the bottom of the robot.