Wheel Turning's Math: Angle & Displacement

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the displacement of the back wheels of a three-wheel vehicle when turning at a specific angle, specifically 20 degrees NE. The key formula presented is s = rΘ, where s represents arc length, r is the radius from the pivot point to the back wheels, and Θ is the angle in radians. The conversation emphasizes the importance of determining the pivot point during a turn and the relationship between motor velocities and wheel displacement using the differential mechanism equation w = w1*wm1 + w2*wm2. Understanding these concepts is crucial for accurately controlling the vehicle's movement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of mechanical physics principles, particularly related to motion and rotation.
  • Familiarity with basic trigonometry and angular measurements, including radians.
  • Knowledge of differential drive mechanisms and their mathematical representations.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving arc length and radius in the context of vehicle dynamics.
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  • Research the application of the formula s = rΘ in various mechanical systems.
  • Explore the principles of differential drive systems and their control algorithms.
  • Learn about the effects of pivot point location on vehicle maneuverability.
  • Investigate advanced topics in kinematics related to multi-motor vehicle dynamics.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for robotics engineers, mechanical engineers, and hobbyists working on autonomous vehicles or robotic systems that require precise control of wheel displacement during turns.

PrudensOptimus
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Hello,

Due to my meager mechanical physics knowledge and my meager math talent, I am stuck on this matter: How are the angle of a vehicle turning related to its wheel's displacement. Let me elaborate:

I have a 3 wheel vehicle. It relies on the 2 motors in the back to motivate it. Each of those turning in opposite direction produce a turning effect. However, is there a possible way to find the displacement of the back 2 wheels when given the angle? Say I want to turn the vehicle 20 degrees NE from the spot, how "far" should I set the motors to go?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Of course your time is the greatest contribution.

-
 
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In a perfect world and in a nutshell:

[tex]s = r \Theta[/tex]
where:
[tex]s = arc \ length[/tex]
[tex]r = radius[/tex]
[tex]\Theta = angle\ in\ radians[/tex]

You should first estimate where your pivot point would be during a turn and then the radius would be from that point to either of the back wheels. If you want to go 20° then there is your angle (don't forget to convert it to radians). That will tell you how long of an arc the back wheel must travel to turn 20°. That is making the assumption that both motors are turning you exactly about a single pivot point and that point is stationary. If the point is moving, that will complicate the situation. I'd say start with the easy stuff first.
 
Last edited:
if there is two motors it is a differrential mechanism. and w=w1*wm1+w2*wm2
w=wheels velocity of angel
w1=velocity when the other motor stops
w2=velocity when the other motor stops
wm1=1st motor's velocity
wm2=2nd motor's velocity
s=w*l*t
Q=S/r
Q=angle (rad)
l=length
 

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