Inspired by the Arm team's research topic list, here are some topics that I (Emily Adam) would like to look more into. Feel free to take any of my topics, join someone else on a topic, or add your own suggestions! In general, I think we should be researching our options, their pros/cons, and what is required to implement that technology.
| Topic | Rationale | Key Things to Research | Assignment |
|---|
Flexible frame styles | - Understanding the variety of ways that the problem of drivetrain flexibility has been solved will help us grow our perspective. This will help us either A) come up with a brand new design or B) find an option that really suits our team
| - Styles used in industry
- Styles used by other URC teams
- How did the team compute their drivetrain geometry
- Analysis of drivetrain styles
| |
| Member styles and implementation | - Different ways of styling frame members will have different effects on drivetrain properties such as stiffness, robustness, etc.
- Want to optimize our drivetrain for these qualities as much as possible
| - What styles are used in industry and by other URC teams (i.e. tubes, T-extrusion, etc.)
- What is the main method of manufacturing when working with them?
- Generally, what strategies are used to assemble a pair of members?
- Properties advantage vs weight
| a4tersig@uwaterloo.ca (Unlicensed) |
| Wheel construction | - Our wheels have a huge impact on how we interact with obstacles and the field in general
| - Polymer 3D printed wheels, metal wheels, balloon tires
- Tread styles
- Analysis of the differing wheel styles
- Size
- Shape (some teams use 'torx' shape)
| Elizabeth Jung |
| Construction materials | - Also contributes to drivetrain robustness
- Large impact on rover weight
| - Construction material options and any unique fabrication processes required to use them
- Potential procurement routes
- Where might this composite be sold and for how much per meter
- Potential sponsors?
- CARBON COMPOSITES
| amillsem@uwaterloo.ca |
| Drive system styles | - Deciding the type of motors we want, the number we'll need, and how they'll be implemented will affect the EE plan for drive controllers
| - Viable motors, gearboxes, and motor+gearbox duos of different types and their pros/cons
- Direct drive vs chain drive and how they are frequently implemented
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