Getting started...


During this past week, we have made some good progress towards understanding which possible gear ratios we can use to execute our strategy.  Shown in the photo below are the different sections of the planetary motor that we were examining in the motor lab.

We have also been discussing possible materials to use for our base plate and mounting blocks for the treads (our Most Critical Module) and how we would machine these parts.  Our original plans were to buy a 12 X 12" square plate of 1/4" thick aluminum for the base plate and use the 90 degree angle aluminum stock for the mounting blocks.  However, we would not be able to cover the cost of the square aluminum plate in the $100 budget since the majority of our budget will be spent on the tread system.  After talking with Mark in the machine shop, we have determined that the 1/4" thick Acrylic plate given in the kit will suffice.  Shown in the photo below is our current solid model of our base plate.  Some changes may be made.

Given the many holes in the plate and after discussing things over with Mark, we decided we will use the Laser Cutter to machine all of the base plate.  We also hope to etch in a cool design onto the base plate.