Caterpillar tracks & suspension[edit source]
--> Can be based on SuperDroid Dr. Rover or DF Robotshop Rover/Tamiya caterpillar tracks (simpler than http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tracks_(diagram).png ). See http://www.robotshop.com/tracked-development-platforms-1.html Wheels may be added (upto 5: see M113 APC: http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=882db2521a6458e3449f826422285ec7&prevstart=0 , http://www.combatindex.com/store/3D/M113.html , http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JRBM0c0i5Vs/SnZABaFvpaI/AAAAAAAAApM/YWs6KVbY4hc/s400/M113A3_side.gif ) For the 3D model, the track model at http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=f6c262f3f95893bf10e5f1865191cb0e could possibly also be used. However, the tread should not be made of metal links, rather a rubber belt should be used; Kégresse tracks they are called I think, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuous_track ,and http://www.rubbertrax.com/index.asp?page=tracks and https://blackdogtracks.com/
For the suspension; this can either be based on the T34 or T55 /M113. The first uses a Christie supension, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christie_suspension , http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T-34 ) The latter uses torsion bars, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torsion_bar , M113 torsion bar suspension system, http://web.archive.org/web/20130925120514/http://www.economicexpert.com:80/a/Caterpillar:track.htm Another possibility is by combining several idlers and using a single (long) shock absorber for these, see http://www.algodoo.com/algobox/upload/image/17539_beste_tank_onderstel_tot_nu_toe_2.png However, this method would not allow much sideways movement. For the suspension part of the 3D model, see http://web.archive.org/web/20161023160212/http://members.tele2.nl:80/s_weggeman/index.htm or contact a RC tank manufacturer as Hooben; see http://web.archive.org/web/20100420041955/http://www.hooben.com:80/t-55a_e.html
Design[edit source]
If possible, use a shape comparable to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NKL-26
Tools[edit source]
Either the method of attachment of tools of regular traction engines is used, or the newer "three point hith" method can be used, see http://www.saukvilletractor.com/
Turning[edit source]
Design still ongoing, if using 2 engines, the OSMC may be upscaled and used, see
- http://www.robotpower.com/downloads/OSMC_project_documentation_V4_25.pdf
- http://www.robotpower.com/products/osmc_info.html
contact: Sonny Lloyd – slloyd@engineer.com & Don Jennings - dasjennings@msn.com
Relook Iliya's tracked vehicle control page