I am hoping someone might be able to suggest a robot platform to suit my project.
I am looking to build an all-terrain outdoor tracked unit that is capable of carrying up to 10 lbs payload. Speed is not important but all weather operation in dirt, mud, sand, snow and potential rubble is a must, so I feel a tracked option might be best (although I am not completely against a 4 or 6WD option). The motors would have to be protected from moisture and dirt. The overall dimensions would have to be sufficient to mount a payload that is 12" long and 6" wide but approximately 3lbs of the weight would be elevated about 8" from the base so the overall width would have to be able to support a bit of top heaviness.
There is very little experience involved here so I don’t mind assembling the unit but I am not interested in programming. Looking for more of a plug in play remote control ready system that will also be easy to use in the field by a wide variety of users/skill levels.
Cost will be a bit of a factor and I am aiming for the $600 mark but willing to go up to $800 or so.
I really like the idea of the ServoCity Agent 390 platform as it would be very adaptable for my payload and looks very strong. I am not convinced the smooth tracks, low clearance, and exposed components quite fit my outdoor requirements, however.
I am also hoping for a kit to match my very limited experience but given the right list of components I might be able to cobble something together.
In the price range you specified, your best bet is likely to use a platform which is not weather proof and make modifications so it is. ServoCity’s Agent 390 is quite exposed and would require a lot of modification in order to make it somewhat weather resistant.
With the A4WD1, I am a bit concerned with its ability to carry 10lbs and the stability with a higher center of gravity (8" above the top panel). Would it be possible to upgrade the power to handle more weight and maybe widen the wheel base for stability?
I think the Arduino fits the bill a little closer. What modifications would be required for weather proofing? I’m not looking to operate in extreme conditions but there is a good chance of dust, mud, puddles and moisture.
A custom chassis is most certainly an option. Something that falls between the two models you mentioned would likely suit well. A little beefier than the A4WD1 but similar. What would be involved to follow that process?
If this appraoch is of interest, we can suggest parts to complete the setup. Unfortunately the chassis cannot be easily widened (metal brackets).
Plug all holes, caulk all seams and ideally add a 6mm radial shaft seal around the area where the shaft exits the frame. Also, use hardware that does not rust. Your main issue will then be getting access to all internal parts afterwards (like charging the battery).
We do not provide design services, so it would be entirely up to you. We can help you select the motors / wheels / controller, but designing and building hte frame would be up to you.
Upon some further thought and consideration, I have decided to build the chassis myself and will be looking for all the components.
Two questions,
Is this the best place to get a parts list together with motor/controller/tracks/etc or is there a better email/phone number to contact?
Will all the parts come with directions to make them work together? Again, limited experience but i do have the ability to connect A to B and tighten to C.
Unfortunately we do not offer direct e-mail nor telephone support, so here is indeed the best place.
You’re getting into custom robotics - each part will have its own user guide. If you are opting for an Arduino, you’ll also have (custom) programming to do.
I am looking to build a tracked platform as I believe it will best suit my weight and terrain requirements. The platform will be around 12"x16" but I’ll actually build it when i see the components to best make everything fit. The overall weight of the platform and payload will be approximately 15-20lbs.
So, can you please recommend some components? Been doing some looking but not sure if I am on the right track.
For the controller, you mention programming for Arduino. I notice there is a 328 controller in the one prebuilt kit you recommended so i assume this would be sufficient for a basic forward-reverse-left-right option. Is there another controller pre-programmed or that might be easier to install? I have some resources in town here that would be able to assist with the programming anyway. robotshop.com/en/nexus-robo … oller.html
I am going for a non-wired remote control option and hoping to utilize a PS2 controller for ease of use for a variety of end users. Unless there is a different option with better range and without getting as complex as a drone remote? robotshop.com/en/lynxmotion … er-v4.html
I am not sure where to start with the motors. Again, a tracked model with around 15lbs operating weight although i would like to overshoot that a bit to have some room for changes/my inaccurate estimates. From what I can tell, only one motor and drive sprocket would be required for each track. Is this the case or will there have to be four? I imagine four changes the controller programming requirements.
I am assuming once we have figured the motors and controllers, you would be able to recommend the power system.
And the last part that I know of, the tracks and mechanics. So i have looked at the Lynxmotion and the rubber tank tracks. Obviously the Lynxmotion are less expensive but it’s noted they are used with police for heavy configurations. I like the aspect of adding or removing links to fit really any platform. Will the Lynxmotion be suitable outdoors in dirt/moisture or would the rubber tank tracks be more robust and suitable? And of course, sprockets to run the tracks. I did see the set of tracks that are enclosed but I think an open design will be easier to maintain in the event of dirt or anything getting inside the module. At the very least, easier to do a visual inspection. robotshop.com/en/lynxmotion … rk-02.html robotshop.com/ca/en/rubber- … tooth.html
I have made a lot of assumptions, but hoping I am on the right track. Any other components I am missing?
The tracks are made of injection molded ABS and rubber, while the smaller sprockets are injection molded, and the larger MTS sprockets use Lexan and injection-molded ABS.
The design itself will determine if the tracks come off, while the only real temperature concerns to look up would be for ABS and rubber.
