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Originally Posted by superbeano2004
Wow, thanks with all the help guys! Here is what we did last year:
First, we used 4 drill motors with the transmissions to obtain a 4 wheel drive. We figured out that it didn't work very well at all, we couldn't turn worth crap and the trannys kept slipping. We also used 2 of the big 12" pneumatic tires and the 2 other wheelchair tires.
Next idea, we replaced the 2 wheelchair tires with 2 more 12" pneumatic tires. We did this to try to get up the step. Another problem, we did not have the power or traction to get up the step, scratch that idea.
Final idea, completely take off the front two systems and replace them with good ol' casters. No getting up the step but it helped us maneuver a little better. Sigh...another problem, we were not used to the whipping action of the bot so it eventually threw out our battery. Very embarrassing.
Thanks a bunch and I hope to see all you guys in upcoming events and meet you guys.
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Gerald,
You went through the motions so many rookie teams have gone through. (and a lot of veteran teams)
1. Four wheel drive (tank drive) works great when going in one direction but you can't turn on carpet so you need a method of lifting the two wheels off the carpet or turning them as part of the steering.
2. Using large tires can accomplish certain goals but the circumference of the tire needs to be considered in the final gear ratio choice. It is difficult to get good control with large tires at normal speeds in the torque range of the motors supplied. There are so many trade-offs.
3. Casters work OK but give the same problem that grocery carts have and that is the need for incredible steering torques to be stable and maneuverable. They also give a varying response when changing direction due to a fixed turning diameter of the caster.
4. Battery must be secure and protected within the robot. No battery=no play.
All in all you have learned a lot your first season out. Keep using the people here on CD as a resource, they are the best.