A New Design of Variable Traction Tracked System

Abstract

This paper discussed the possibility of deploying the proposed Variable Geometry Tracked Vehicle (VGTV) in our first robotic based prototype called REC-01. REC-01 is being developed as a miniature scouting and search & rescue all-terrain robotic vehicle. Its comparatively small size and mass limit its power capacity and navigational capabilities for larger obstacles. The VGTV is a unique concept used to overcome these shortcomings. The main part of this paper is to discuss the mechanical efficiency of the tracked systems in some specific field conditions and compare the results with the conventional tracked propulsion. The outcomes of the first prototype are also briefly discussed in this paper.