pic: 6WD Module

[Andrew Blair]

Madison, we are quite impressed with the idea of removable six wheel modules, and have begun to think about the design of one.

My question is, how to you intend to attach the modules to your frame? I've considered welding angle onto the outside frame, angle onto the modules, bending tabs, etc., but I'm not completely pleased with these methods of attachment. We intend to use 1x1 tube, in the kitbot arrangment style- perhaps even the kitframe, and I run into problems intersecting gearboxes and motors with necessary frame members, just in my head.

[Cody Carey]

Madison,

As Andrew said, We have been developing a similar drive train, but are wondering how much each of your modules will weigh completed. As is, A completed frame with our currently designed module will weigh about 35-40 lbs, with each module weighing 15 -20 lbs. Is this comparable to yours?
Also, our current design differs from yours in that we will attach the modules directly together using aluminum tube, and that will form our primary Frame. Because of this, our modules had to be somewhat more... Robust, and are going to be made of a thicker plate, probably .20-.25 inch. As soon as we have some renderings we will post them, and thanks for your help in advance

-Cody C

[sanddrag]

Originally Posted by Cody C

Because of this, our modules had to be somewhat more... Robust, and are going to be made of a thicker plate, probably .20-.25 inch.

I think I'd go with more standoffs and thin plate rather than thick plate, but, as always, it all depends on a lot of things that aren't easy to predict and sometimes aren't easy to test for.

[Madison]

Originally Posted by Cody C

Madison,

As Andrew said, We have been developing a similar drive train, but are wondering how much each of your modules will weigh completed. As is, A completed frame with our currently designed module will weigh about 35-40 lbs, with each module weighing 15 -20 lbs. Is this comparable to yours?
Also, our current design differs from yours in that we will attach the modules directly together using aluminum tube, and that will form our primary Frame. Because of this, our modules had to be somewhat more... Robust, and are going to be made of a thicker plate, probably .20-.25 inch. As soon as we have some renderings we will post them, and thanks for your help in advance

-Cody C

That sounds pretty close to the weight calculated by Solidworks. My model is missing bolts, chain and little things like that and comes in at about 10 lbs. per module and 25 lbs. for the whole chassis.

I was planning on seating this design inside a frame of 3x1" aluminum channel, somehow using the spacers and bolts on each end in the scheme to attach it to the frame. I didn't develop it much further than that because I began in on yet another 6WD setup that's integrated wholly into the frame.

I'm looking forward to seeing your renderings. I'll likely be putting up some new renderings of the latest 6WD arrangement we've designed later today.

[Cody Carey]

Allrighty then, my renderings are up. (as soon as they are approved)

[SleeveofWizard]

What are the benefits of a 6WD over 4WD?

[Alan Anderson]

Originally Posted by SleeveofWizard

What are the benefits of a 6WD over 4WD?

You get more contact area between the drive wheels and the carpet when you use more wheels.

Some will argue that the reduced weight on each wheel makes it no more effective than a four-wheel system. Others will counter with the idea that the carpet fibers bend and thus have a maximum static friction force they will support for a given area.

[Fred Sayre]

Originally Posted by SleeveofWizard

What are the benefits of a 6WD over 4WD?

With this 6 wheel setup with omni wheels in the corners you drag your wheels a lot less on the ground when you are turning in place. With 4 wheels you end up having more motion perpendicular to the wheel which, given a lot of traction in your wheels can really strain your drive train, and make turning much slower.

[Tom Bottiglieri]

I like the removable 6wd modules. Reminds me of something I will be seeing alot of this year.

[Brandon Holley]

Originally Posted by Tom Bottiglieri

I like the removable 6wd modules. Reminds me of something I will be seeing alot of this year.

hmm yes tom, it kinda does