Quote:
Originally Posted by davidthefat
I am 100% certain on my design. Its just a simple 4 wheel drive. I will post a picture of the robot later on when it starts coming into shape. It will blow your mind what can be done with something so simple as a 4 wheel drive.
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Hi,
What about a 4WD will blow my mind? I've got a pretty good idea of the physics involved, so I tend to understand the tradeoffs pretty well...
In a narrow configuration:
You'll have either higher turning scrub than a 6WD so you won't be able to turn as well, OR you'll need to reduce lateral traction on some of your wheels (and likely your primary traction as well) OR you'll need to reduce your wheel base which will make you less front/back stable OR you'll need to shift your CG drastically forward/back which will make you less front/back stable.
In a wide configuration:
You'll be MUCH less front/back stable and wider (which makes it harder to get through traffic).
So yes, you can make a 4WD work great for the game -- but there are tradeoffs involved. Typically those tradeoffs involve reducing traction (at least partially) or reducing wheel base or reducing stability.
A "rocking" 6WD allows you to keep full traction while keeping full wheelbase (because it essentially has two short wheelbases that it alternates between. The tradeoff there, is the added complexity of additional wheels.
Note, this post only applies to "skid steer" robots commonly known as "tank drives" -- when the wheels can turn it is a whole different animal.
Please try to remember that you're preaching (in part) to a group of veteran robot builders and experienced engineers on this forum. Conduct yourself accordingly, and you'll get additional opportunities you can't possibly imagine.
-John