R2D2 Track System
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My previous experience with track systems lead me to design and build a track system for the R2D2 project. The R2D2 builders community has seen one other track system used prior to mine. The system that was previously implemented utilized modified RC snowmobile tracks on a lightweight astromech droid. What I wanted to do with my tracks was build a heavy duty system for droids weighing in excess of 200 lbs. Many of the components used are also utilized in FIRST robotics, a decision made due to the affordability and availability of the parts. The track system
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Drive Teeth
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The drive teeth used are identical to the ones used for the 2013 and 2014 Lunabotics rovers I worked on for the NASA Robotic Mining Competition. The choice to use these was primarily due to the prior experience and belief in a successful system. For more info on the drive teeth click (((HERE))).
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Drive Cog
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The current drive cog is a 3d printed part built up from the existing drive model designed in 2013 for the NASA Robotic Mining Competition. The ABS plastic drive cog is showing some minor wear after about 20 hours of driving but nothing significant. I plan on running both the cog and the teeth until failure to determining lifespan on the systems.
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Belt Material
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Belting used for the tracks is 3" wide rough top inline conveyor belting from McMaster (part #5994K7). The belting is only $1.80 per foot so affordability and ease of use were key factors to using them. The ends of the belting can be combined using a sewing needle (preferred), alligator clips (easy), or heavy duty staples (only had a few hours to get the belts together, whoops!).
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