My latest concept. Designed for rough terrain GIS, Surveying, Security applications. I haven't worked it all out yet, But with Ardu it may finally come to be a reality. I really didn't want to use electric propulsion, but technology hasn't caught with me yet, to use a ICE (internal Combustion Engine) and hydraulics for propulsion.
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Interesting post, thanks for the link!. I am still hesitant to go electric, mainly because if you want enough power to go a certain speed, say 5 MPH, and your machine weighs 200lbs, you need bigger or more batteries, now your machine weighs 300 lbs. so you need bigger batteries. This has been my dilemma going all electric, for years. On the other hand if there was a way to interface Ardu to electric linear actuators,with feedback to control the pump(s). That would pave the way for a ICE powered hydraulically driven machine. All the existing Ardu capabilities would make for a great machine.
A word on a suspension I managed to find (but didn't purchase) a small child's electric ATV, for about $300, only two wheel drive, but it is a start.
Check out this Instructables post... http://www.instructables.com/id/Arduino-RC-Lawnmower/
It has many elements that I'd like to do on my larger rov project. I think on a larger project getting suspension is a lot easier than building a small platform. There are just so many places you can get usable parts and fabricating your own is easier as well.
I will watch your project with great interest as I am not ready to do much on mine at this time.
Hi Thomas, I have considered a suspension system, but given the basically simple control of a skid-steer platform, the suspension would be trashed in a few runs. I am not an engineer just an idea guy, so simple works for me. Figuring out how to drive all four wheels, would be a great challenge also.
Ryan,
Most rough terrain rovers use four wheel suspension to traverse uneven ground. You might want to rethink the suspension system.
I have several six wheel rovers with fixed wheels like your concept rover. They are okay on even terrain (lawns, sidewalks, streets, etc), but do not do well on undeveloped surfaces that a rough terrain rover must traverse.
Just a thought.
Regards,
TCIII