Skid plates for robotic VX

[Art]

We will do our best with our sensors and control software to keep our robotic VX on safe terrain... but mistakes are expected. We want to minimize the exposure. Last year the CMU robot "Sandstorm" ended up high-centered on a berm on a switchback and burned its tires trying to free itself. We expect to run over stuff and want to minimize risk to the vehicle. Anyone have advice on skid plates? Any other advice on how to protect the underside? Thanks!

[SGT.BATGUANO]

I'd have to say a reinforced, full belly plate , like green dragons' would be in order. BoB?

[Triathlete]

Also might want to apply a sheet of teflon over it to allow it to slide over obstacles easier like the rock crawlers do.

[Art]

Thanks! Any tips on suppliers?

[Triathlete]

There are no off the shelf makers of full skids. You would have to custom make it. There are plenty of attachment points on the belly. You should be able to find a person who can cut and weld metal around the campas. Check Spazz and Swordies galleries to see theirs. Make sure to leave some openings for cooling and access to maintanence areas. For suppliers of materials you might want to check out some of the rock crawling boards such as Pirate4x4.com (make sure to post in the appropriate area there because they can be vicious!). There are a lot of fabbers in your area also that may be able to help locating materials.

[Art]

Thanks!

[Maugan_VX]

the skid plates off of a trooper will bolt right on to the frame of the VX. They wont offer you complete protection from everything, but they are a quick way to see what else you need to protect.

Also, I put much faith in the stock trooper skid plates. Unlike skids from other manufacturers, the ones off the trooper are actually reliable to protect the bits they are supposed to protect.

[Art]

Great advice, thanks!