Quote:
Originally posted by wysiswyg
This is utterly confusing. Hear is what I understand. Friction is not dependent upon surface area almost every single website says that. But other websites I've searched describe surface area as a way to improve traction. Well aparently traction and friction aren't the same thing so what is traction?
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Traction is a word. There are no physical units associated with traction in the same way that there are for friction, or mass, or speed (i.e. friction is measured in Newtons, but traction isn't <i>measured</i> in anything.)
Friction, on the other hand, is a force measured in Newtons. It occurs between two surfaces sliding together.
Good 'traction' comes from best harnessing the output torque of our motors and gearboxes. This means, esssentially, that we're trying to maximize the force that is used to propel the robot along the floor while avoiding two situations - stalling the motors or slipping the wheels.