Newsgroups: comp.robotics
Path: brunix!cat.cis.Brown.EDU!agate!howland.reston.ans.net!cs.utexas.edu!csc.ti.com!tilde.csc.ti.com!mksol!cramer
From: cramer@mksol.dseg.ti.com (Norman W Cramer)
Subject: Help - DC Motor Selection
Message-ID: <1994Aug26.141509.20546@mksol.dseg.ti.com>
Summary: DC Motor Selection Help
Keywords: DC Motor
Organization: Texas Instruments Inc
X-Newsreader: TIN [version 1.2 PL0]
Date: Fri, 26 Aug 1994 14:15:09 GMT
Lines: 17

I am in the process of designing an mobile robot.  The robot will use 
two motors for differential drive.  I need some help to determine the 
motor specifications.  The robot should weigh less than 50 lb. and will 
be used in an outdoor environment (My yard).  The terrain is not very 
steep or rough.  The drive train has a 3.4:1 reduction so far (more can 
be added with the motors), and the wheels are 8 in. in diameter.  What 
process can I follow to determine the ratings for my motors.  I know how 
to determine the RPM required but am having trouble with the torque 
specifications.  

I also need a source for inexpensive motors and reduction gears.  I 
would like to get the lowest cost drive system that will do the job.

Thanks,
Norm

cramer@dseg.ti.com
