2001 Drive Motors

[Jason Morrella]

We also use the drill motors for 4 wheel drive. There two main reasons we had no problems with pulling the goals or traction on the bridge.
1. We were able to switch gears, so once we had both goals and/or got to the bridge - we would switch to low gear.
2. The real key was that we used the pnematics to pick up one end of one goal - which transferred the weight to the robot and made it much easier to pull up the bridge.

The other team you mentioned, #45 the TechnoKats, had a different system. They also switch gears, but their big advantage was that they used the drill motors AND fisher price motors in tandem. Basically attaching the motors together - making the robot either faster without giving up much power, or more power without giving up much speed depending on the gear they were in. Very cool innovation on their part - which we are experimenting with ourselves over the summer.

Off the topic - do you know where the GilaMonsters are going to compete in 2002. I know you normally do 2 regionals, with LA being your home event. We might not go to LA this year, so we're hoping you guys (64) might compete at the Silicon Valley again. Partners in the National playoffs in 99 & 2000, and regional competitors (qualifying partners) all three years at regionals - it just won't feel right if we don't see team 64 at a regional!!!!

Tell Chris & Mike I said hi.