| The robot drive
kit (RDK) is the basis for a powerful drive system for building a robot
or cart. The robot drive kit consists of motors, wheels, cogs, pulleys,
and related hardware. This manual describes how to build a complete
robot base using the RDK.
The RDK comes in two forms: the RDK-2 and RDK-4. The RDK-2 (shown left) contains parts for two-wheel drive systems, while the RDK-4 is for 4 wheel drive systems. The RDK contains all parts necessary to build a robot drive system except the platform chassis. This manual focuses on the RDK-4 and assumes you will be building a Workman III platform. The RDK provides most of the parts necessary to accomplish this task except the plastic enclosures used in the Workman. Refer to the parts list for more information concerning required parts. While this manual provides details on how to build a particular robot base, you are not limited to a single design approach. The principles presented here may be applied to build the robot of your choosing.
The RDK-4 (above) is the basis of the Workman III motorized platform (below) and features the parts shown. In addition to the RDK, the Workman III utilizes six large compartments that house the internal electronics, motors, and battery. The compartments are joined together to form an attractive robot base. (Enclosures, batteries and electronics are not included in the RDK-4.)
With plenty
of available surface area for mounting sensors, cameras, or actuators,
the Workman platform is ideally suited for commercial, educational, or
hobby use.
The RDK-2 (above) is the basis of the Workman II motorized platform (below) featuring the parts shown. This platform also utilizes a custom-designed rear idler system consisting of two 6" wheels that swivel, allowing this robot to make tight turns. (Details of the Workman II and its construction are not addressed in this manual .)
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