Rookie team drive tream idea

[Max Lobovsky]

Originally Posted by Sachiel7

^ See Reference Image (my avatar)

27:1 seems like a little too much of a reduction. Especially if you're running at 40 amps. You can get a good reduction simply with sprockets and chain.
We typically run a drive similar to what you've specified.
We run 1 chip per side, each at a 18:1 sprocket reduction, 40 amps/motor. We use 8" wheels; remember your wheel size will make your speed vary.
If you're gearing down the Chip's 27:1, you will not hit 8 fps, unless you have a large enough wheel. Having a wheel that size will compromise your gearing thus making it pointless.
Also, remember when your worm gear stops motion, your drive wheels won't want to move. In pushing matches or in conflicting forces in your drive, depending upon your worm gear configuration, you may be risking breaking your worm gear assembly. Trust me, I've seen it done. If you want to brake your drive instead of coasting, there are better options than a worm gear.
I'm glad to hear of some rookies trying something other than the drive supplied in the kit.
I would suggest that you shoot for 20:1 at most if you're running at 40 amps. The 12" wheels in the kit should get ok traction, but the 12" size can be a bit of an overkill, unless you're planning on driving up the side of the platform.
Either way, it sound like you guys are off to a good start!

We are right on with our ratios, you forgot to take into account the difference in wheel size, ours 12 and yours 8:
12/8=1.5
1.5*18=27

Why is a 12" "overkill"? We thought it would make the steps significantly easier and, in addition, we already have two to play with.

The reason i wanted to do a worm gear is because i didn't want to deal with building a complex multiple axle gearbox. I understand the problem with the worm gear, but i still really don't want to try a gearbox like this. If anyone knows a way to simplify this 27:1 gearing (buy if possible), that would be great.

[edomus]

Originally Posted by maxlobovsky

Why is a 12" "overkill"? We thought it would make the steps significantly easier and, in addition, we already have two to play with.

There is absolutely no need to climb the stairs in this game.

[Max Lobovsky]

Originally Posted by edomus

There is absolutely no need to climb the stairs in this game.

There is no need to do just about anything in this game.

[Cory]

Think twice about the steps. You could get up them with far smaller wheels. Also, make sure you make your robot narrower than 30", or that your driver is darn good. It's going to be real tough for anyone to manuever around the fixed goal in such a tight space at such an angle.

Just some things to think about

Cory

[Max Lobovsky]

Originally Posted by Cory

Think twice about the steps. You could get up them with far smaller wheels. Also, make sure you make your robot narrower than 30", or that your driver is darn good. It's going to be real tough for anyone to manuever around the fixed goal in such a tight space at such an angle.

Just some things to think about

Cory

Hence the high aspect ratio of the bot's profile. And from everyone's suggestions, sounds like 8 inch wheels may be a better choice