8WD drivetrain?

[Tim Delles]

Originally Posted by Waynep

If I remember correctly 229 uses smaller diameter wheels on their setups for Denominator and Irrational.

Wayne you would be correct in saying this. The wheels we use are 4" x 1.5" wheels. Last year we made our own wheels, this year we are using the IFI wheels.

As Wayne with Wayne 229 has played around with the 6WD last year and this year we have gone to the 8WD.

Last year our 6WD was rockered. This allowed for better turning. And yes the majority of the mass should be over the center of the robot. Not only does this help 6WD robots turn, but it helps all designs when it comes to turning.

This year we tried out an 8WD design. This allowed us to keep our 4" wheels. Our 8WD design is similar to the 6WD rockered. The middle 4 wheels of the drive are lowered, so that when we are going up the ramp, 4 wheels are always in contact with the ramp.

Pictures of both robots are posted on our website.

[David Sherman]

Thank you all for the feedback. I'm thankful for it. Now I know it is at least worth trying 8WD instead of 6WD. Thanks again to everyone. Additional comments or advice would be great.