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Unread 14-01-2008, 23:34
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Re: Why don't I ever see robots that steer like a car

Ackermen steering is a definite advantage for smooth turns and probably has speed advantages. It's also nicer on the wheels and carpet. However, it's not terribly useful for precise positioning. Imagine if there was a trackball right beside your car. If you wanted to grab it, you'd have to pull a reasonably complicated two-point turn. Or pull all the way around, etc. A tank drive robot merely has to turn 90 degrees in place.
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