The track is 24" center to center; 8 1/2" wide and 5" high. I am thinking 12 volt, but don’t know if I should use brushless … I have no experience with electronics.
I would also need a Speed control and battery. Any advice is appreciated!
The track is 24" center to center; 8 1/2" wide and 5" high. I am thinking 12 volt, but don’t know if I should use brushless … I have no experience with electronics.
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Hi @KrashRox and welcome to our forum!
This track looks well made. Is it made by you or?
Regarding electronics, here are few things to consider:
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Motors: Brushless motors are generally more efficient, have better performance, and require less maintenance than brushed motors, making them a good choice, especially if you’re looking for durability and longevity.
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Speed Controller: For brushless motors, you’ll need an Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) compatible with the motor’s voltage and current ratings. Ensure the ESC matches your system requirements for smooth operation.
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Battery: A 12V lithium-ion battery could be suitable for your application, offering a good balance between weight and capacity. Ensure the battery’s amp-hour (Ah) rating supports your vehicle’s operational demands to achieve the desired runtime.
Feel free to ask anything else.
I built it myself from scratch. I’m a machinist, but not overly familiar with electronics. I have had R/C vehicles in the past (T-Maxx, Optima).
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Great! I guess your first step would be to choose a suitable motor.
What are the dimensions of the shafts for coupling the motors to your track? You want to mount these inside or outside of the track?
Have you done some calculations regarding the torque of the motors or maybe you saw somewhere some similar projects with examples?
This is from the Battle Bot Biteforce. I am using the same chain but a different mount. I do not have a mill large enough to make those side plates and had some pieces of Aluminum tubing. I cannot find any information on what motors etc they used, and the group is inactive now.
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The shaft is 3/4", and I was thinking of mounting the motors on the inside with a couple of crosspieces to attach the 2 tracks together. I only have the one track made so far in case my design does not work.
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Hi @KrashRox ,
Thank you for sharing these details.
How can we help here further?
Maybe we can help with motor choice. How many motors you would need? What voltage and torque for example? And what are the size restrictions?
I was looking at this esc:
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And this motor:
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I would use a motor per track, and hopefully a single esc. Would I need a battery per motor, or a single battery per both?
I don’t really have any size restrictions as I am building my own design from scratch.
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Yes, Sabertooth Dual 12A should work with two of these motors. So one battery would be enough.
And, if you want to use encoders, you will going to need Kangaroo x2 motion controller:
Could one of these be powered by a 12v Deep Cycle marine batter? If not, what would be the best battery you carry to power it?
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Hi @KrashRox ,
Recommended power sources are:
• 5 to 18 cells NiMH or NiCd
• 2s to 6s lithium ion or lithium polymer. Sabertooth motor drivers have a lithium
battery mode to prevent cell damage due to over-discharge of lithium battery
packs.
• 6v to 24v lead acid
• 6v to 24v power supply (when in parallel with a suitable battery)
Does this 12V Deep Cycle marine battery fits into some of these categories?
If not, these could be good options: