3 motor drive train

[JVN]

Decisions concerning the number of motors in a drivetrain (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12... whatever!), the number of speeds in a drivetrain, and what speeds to gear at, are engineering design decisions.
These decisions are dependant on a robot's gearing, wheel traction and many other factors.

The output power from the motor must be modified (via gearing) to be "optimized" to achieve desired performance. Sometimes more power must be added (more motors) and sometimes the gearing must be modified for different tasks (multiple speeds). There are many different definitions of "competitive performance". There are also many different combinations of drivetrain components tha can be used to achieve these levels of performance.

Note: for more information on drivetrain physics, shifting gears, or multiple motor drivetrains, please click the *search* button.

To imply that this decision can be universally made for all drivetrains, without showing any calculations
(i.e. "6 Motor drive is stooopid. Long Live 4-motors...") is foolish.

I urge everyone: keep your opinion to yourself; unless you have some calculations to back it up.

Thanks,
John