How do I calculate required torque for two dc motors?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the required torque for two DC motors in the context of designing a handicapped golf vehicle. Participants explore the necessary equations to determine torque, particularly in relation to climbing steep gradients.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an equation for calculating total tractive effort, which includes rolling resistance, grade resistance, and acceleration force.
  • Another participant asserts that the equations provided are correct but suggests incorporating a mass factor to account for rotational inertia in the acceleration force equation.
  • A different participant challenges the formulation of the acceleration force, proposing an alternative equation that does not divide by gravity.
  • One participant reiterates the correctness of the original equations while acknowledging the need for additional factors related to rotational inertia.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the formulation of the acceleration force, indicating a lack of consensus on the correct approach. While some agree on the overall structure of the equations, the discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of incorporating rotational inertia.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects concerning the assumptions made in the equations, particularly regarding the treatment of rotational inertia and the definitions of the forces involved.

Kaylin
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Hi,
I am doing a design project but I'm kinda stuck with choosing motors because i am not sure of the required torque. My project is a handicapped golf vehicle powered by 2 motors, so it would need to be able of climbing steep gradients.
I currently have an equation but I am not entirely sure if it's right.
It consist of :
1. Rolling resistance = (Gross Vehicle Mass) X (Co-efficient of Rolling Resistance)
2. Grade resistance = (Gross Vehicle Mass) X ( Sin(angle of max gradient) )
3. Acceleration force = (Gross Vehicle Mass/Gravity) X Acceleration
Adding all 3 up to give you Total Tractive Effort.

That's then used in the equation
Torque = (Friction factor for bearings and axles, etc.) X (Total Tractive Effort) X (Radius of drive wheel)

My question is, are these equations right or do I need to use more complicated equations dealing with moment of inertia, etc.

Thank you!
 
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These are the right equations to use.

To take into account the rotational inertia, you only need to add a mass factor to the third equation. More info on this page.
 
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Kaylin said:
3. Acceleration force = (Gross Vehicle Mass/Gravity) X Acceleration

I think that should be..
Acceleration force = Gross Vehicle Mass X Acceleration
 
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jack action said:
These are the right equations to use.

To take into account the rotational inertia, you only need to add a mass factor to the third equation. More info on this page.
Sorry for the late reply; but thank you.
 

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