Designing a Robotic Lawnmower Blade: Calculating Torque for Optimal Performance

  • Thread starter Thread starter Brushybill
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the torque required for a 12-inch weed-wacker blade weighing approximately 1 lb, which will be driven by an electric motor in a robotic lawnmower project. Key insights indicate that the torque needed is dependent on the desired acceleration to speed, rather than the steady-state operation once the blade is spinning. Participants suggest consulting motor specifications for torque, RPM, and current relationships to determine the appropriate motor selection for optimal performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque calculations in mechanical systems
  • Familiarity with electric motor specifications and performance charts
  • Basic knowledge of dynamics and rotational motion
  • Experience with robotics and remote-controlled systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research electric motor torque-speed curves for specific motor types
  • Learn about the effects of blade design on torque requirements
  • Investigate methods for calculating rotational inertia of the blade system
  • Explore control systems for managing motor speed and torque in robotic applications
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for mechanical engineers, robotics enthusiasts, and students involved in design projects related to automated lawn care systems, specifically those focusing on motor selection and torque calculations.

Brushybill
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Hello,

Some classmates and I are building a remote controlled robotic lawnmower for a design project. One of my task is to design the blade system. The blade is a small weed-wacker blade that is 12in long -- and I am estimating the weight at 1lb for now. It will be attached directly to the motor output shaft.

I am having trouble figuring out how much torque I will need to turn the blade with an electric motor. Neither my dynamics or mechanical mechanisms book gives a clear example of a bar/blade that is driven from the center and/or facing down. Can someone help me figure out the math to come up with some calculations for this problem?

-Thank you
 
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It depends on how fast you want it to spin once it's up to speed. The torque will affect how long it takes the blade to get up to speed, but once it's up to speed, the blade doesn't really affect the motor, unless there's significant drag on the blade from air (probably not). There are probably charts for your motor for torque, rpm, current, etc.
 

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