I know what you are asking, “What are drivetrains,” and “Why is Trial and Error learning about it?” Let’s start with “What are drivetrains?” A drivetrain is the fundamental component that allows the robot to move around the game field. Each drivetrain has its pros and cons. Understanding what we can and can’t do when designing a robot to complete many challenges is very important. Classes like these help recruits learn the basics about drivetrains before competition season starts in the fall. During the class, the team learned about four different drivetrains. 

First was the Mecanum drivetrain. The Mecanum drivetrain can strafe, which means moving sideways while keeping a target in view rather than turning the whole robot to face the target destination. It is not suitable for climbing and can be pushed easily because of the design of its wheels, which have rollers at an angle all over them. This drivetrain is the same one our team used for our robot, Gobbler, last season. 

Next was the X-drive. The wheels on the X-drive are called omni wheels. The wheels are placed at a 45-degree angle on the corners of this drivetrain. This drivetrain can turn easily and drive in all directions, and it is a simple design. However, it can be pushed easily and is bad at climbing. 

The tank drive is the most recognizable drivetrain. This drivetrain has three or more wheels on each side, most commonly found on tanks. It can’t be pushed easily. It’s good at climbing but also creates a lot of friction when it’s turning, making it difficult to turn quickly. 

Last but not least, we learned about the “Holy Grail of Drivetrains,” the swerve drive. It can strafe and has good traction. Swerve drives are uncommon because they are more challenging to design and program. This drivetrain uses four independent swivel wheels. Having independent wheels means the robot can move much more accurately when driving. Because of the swerve drive’s complicated design, it is not very common outside of robot designs.

Classes like these are essential for our team members to understand better how to design a robot for competition season. Drivetrains are just the start, and we will be learning so much more over the summer to prepare for this coming FIRST Tech Challenge season. There is still time to join us. If you are interested in joining our team, please contact us by email at ftc10191@gmail.com or by phone at 601.618.4750.