Quote:
Originally Posted by team3329
Our team used the standard 2010 KoP drive system this year since we were rookies and it worked fairly well, but we want to try something new this year. Does anyone know the advantages and disadvantages of chain vs direst drive vs gears vs belt drives? Trying to get a big picture to try various things (Provided they don't coast too much).
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Keep in mind that there are KOP-based drive trains in the championship division finals every year ( I would say Einstein, but I'm not quite sure about 2006 or 2009). For these teams, the modifications to the KOP drive train are typically gearing-based (adjustments for speed, or addition of a shifting transmission), yet the basic design stays the same. The advantage these teams is only apparent when their manipulators appear to be better designed.
Simple drive train + Elegant manipulator
vs.
Elegant drive train + simple manipulator
So my recommendation is for your team to stick with what they know, and 'experiment' with various ways to drive manipulators (belts, direct drive, etc). That will teach you everything you will want to know while also maintaining a solid, reliable drive base.