pic: Team 195 driving base 2007

[zander_108]

Originally Posted by Arefin Bari

Alright, I am going to use your team as an example. I can only assume and guess. I know you guys don't lower your middle wheels. Why? I have never been able to get a straight answer from anyone. You guys play around with your tread patterns a lot.

On the other hand, when you do a 6wd and don't lower your middle wheel, the robot is trying to turn on 6 different points. Depending on the friction you create with the wheel/tread you are using, it is very hard to turn unless you lower your middle wheel. While lowering the middle wheel, lots of team work on their CG. If the CG is low and the weight is distributed properly throughout the robot, while turning, the robot turns on 2 (middle) or 4 wheels (using only 4 different points to turn), creating less friction. At the same time, there are always 4 wheels touching the ground. I know wedgetop compresses, so if the weight is distributed properly, you get all 6 wheels touching the ground while going straight or back even if you lower your wheel. It also depends on the team how much they lower their middle wheels. I have seen teams do 1/16, 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, even 3/8 and lot of teams have been successful doing it too.

I sure would like to know how does a team turn without lowering their middle wheels. If there is anyone out there with a proper answer with reasonings behind it, please post.

Now back to topic...

As always, 195's chassis looks awesome. I am digging those wheels. Can't wait to see you guys in person. Let's not burn a victor out right before the final match this time. =)

I strongly agree with your argument. For your question, the Best example of a non-lowered center wheel robot that i can think of is 25 this year. And not only is it 6wd, its 8... If any members from 25 are reading... Enlighten us?