Weight Distribution Mechanism in Tread System?

[Kai Zhao]

My team had used the Breco-Flex green "Super-Grip" backing in our drive system but had quite poor pulling ability at the National's pulling test. The 125 lbs robot pulled a meager 90 lbs, before the tracks lost traction.

Our first thought was that the belt might have been worn out, because it had already been driven at one regional. But how much a part could the pressure exerted on the carpet had to go with it? There are 4 pulleys in each side, 2 of which touch the ground. The track is 2" wide with a 22" length on the ground

Using the wonders of Play-Doh, we found out that there is only a 2" x 1" area where the track was exerting force of the carpet.

What would be the best way to resolve this problem? Add additional pulleys, which are really heavy and expensive? Add a "pressure plate" that is coated with teflon? Or increase tension in the system? Has any teams used any of these devices?

-Kai