Drive Train Controls

[cbale2000]

Originally Posted by thatprogrammer

• Tank Drive (unless you do some programming magic) often results in it being difficult to drive straight (as both sides won't be at exactly the same speed).

A problem easily resolved with automatic encoder correction code (to correct for inconsistency in drive base resistances and joystick output), and driver practice.

We've used "Tank Style" drive controls for at least 12 years now and haven't looked back. We tried arcade drive on a practice bot briefly a few years ago to test some code and almost immediately changed it. You just don't get the same level of control on a one joystick arcade drive as you do with a two joystick tank drive. For that matter, I would even argue specifically for joystick-based tank drive... We used a Logitech gamepad controller a few years back, and while the drivers were more familiar with it, you still didn't get the same level of control-ability (especially for precise maneuvering) as you do with joysticks. That said, game controllers are great for demos due to their portability.