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Drivetrain and Chassis Research (2021-2022)

Drivetrain and Chassis Research (2021-2022)

Apr 18, 2021

Inspired by the Arm team's research topic list, here are some topics that I (@Emily Adam (Deactivated)) 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

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

@Emily Adam (Deactivated) 

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

@Former user (Deleted) 

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 (Deactivated) 

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

@Former user (Deleted) 

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