Hi there,
I currently have a uni project that involves an arduino but have zero experience in robotics. The robot which is about 4-5kg is required to drive up a 'see-saw' that has a roughly 20 degree slope, it doesn't matter how fast it travels, and then drive down the other side. The robot will also have a robotic arm and a scoop. I was thinking of doing caterpillar tracks for the wheels and only powering two of them or potentially a metal ball caster, im not too sure which will work better? if anyone can help what type of motors would be suitable for this? Would a Stepper motor or DC motor be more accurate as well. Any other tips also appreciated!!
Thank you!
But you can compute the minimum energy needed to move your device over the path you described. Double or triple that value and that will be the energy needed by your battery power supply. Then you will know the energy requirement for the motor/motors. Then you can pick the motors. One step at a time!
The key parameters are the mass to lift, the height, and the time required. The slope I think its not relevant.
You say time is not important, but clearly it is. Are you willing to wait a year? The power required is inverse linear with time. So let's say the time required is 30 seconds.
In that case the theoretical power required is P = 5 * g * H / 30
where g = 9.81, H is the height, which you need to specify. You need to add a healthy margin for mechanical losses in the gearbox, tracks etc.
I would suggest a DC motor over a stepper, they are smaller and more efficient.
I prefer a stepper for two reasons. More torque and the ability to move the motor in very small steps.