Non-FRC Bot

[drakesword]

So I have started to build a non-frc bot on my own time with my own money (ouch).

Figured I would design something that actually could be used in real world applications. To keep things simple I will stick with a land based robot. So first question is where could robots be used?

Military:
Non-combat and combat supportive roles. (over 1500 bots are used in middle east)

Private Sector:
Multitude of purposes including surveying, lawn care, inspection, window cleaning. . .

So with a few exceptions a robust drivetrain would be a must. So what would be the harshest environment a robot could be used?

Sand:

Good abrasive and good at getting stuck in (hey this could be next years game!)

Areas with sand typically have mounds and peaks that could stop a bot in its tracks. . .


Currently I have most of my electrical portion of my robot already together

Main controler would be a netbook.
Sub controller would be an arduino for IO.
2 Jaguars with a 2CAN
up to 6 victors
up to 6 spikes
An IFI controller from '07 if I need it
2 CIM motors
2 GPS
wireless N radio with posability of a 3g modem as well


Anywho first non-rhetorical question.

What do you think would be the best drivetrain for sand navigation?

I would think that smaller size 2 motor drive would be advantageous being its what I already have.

Keep in mind that keeping sand out of the mechanics are a good thing.