Team 222 the TIGERTRONS have used our "one of a kind" ball bearing shifting style transmission for the last two years.
This years transmission is a two speed shift-on-the-fly with one CIM per a tranny (for a total of two transmission and two CIMS on the robot). We have found that two drive train CIMS can still easily push around most four CIM drive trains out there. Our transmission are put to use continuously throughout the match.
Some situations we use our shifting transmission for:
(High Gear) speeding down the middle of the field
(Low Gear) basic game play, precision maneuvering, and when somebody gets in our path they will then become moved out of our path...
Last years transmission was a three speed shift-on-the-fly with one CIM per a tranny (for a total of two transmissions and two CIMS on the robot). Last year we really only used first and second gear. That is why we only used a two speed transmission for the 2005 robot.
Overall, our ball bearing style transmissions are very effective. They consistently shift instantaneously, they shift very well under load or under little load, and last but not least, they nearly leave a patch of rubber on the carpet when shifting from high gear to low gear at top speed.
Some other reasons why we like this type of transmission:
1. Nearly any number of speeds you may want can be built with this type of transmission
2. It is not all that hard to build and is a great way to teach students just how complex or simple for that matter, shifting gears can be.
3. It is unique to the FIRST world.
4. It is simple and effective!
5. We love getting the question: "How do you shift that?"
This years transmission can be seen here:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/sh...2+transmission
Also you can find a heap of information on our transmissions here on ChiefDelphi by searching for "222 transmission".