Datasheet

Chapter 1: Mechanical Adjustments · Page 37
√ Use your weights and the equations introduced in this activity to calculate the
coefficients of static and kinetic friction for the SumoBot tire treads and the
sumo ring surface.
√ Put the SumoBot on the scale, and add mass until the scale indicates your
SumoBot and payload is just under 500 g.
√ Repeat these tests with your 500 g SumoBot.
√ Compare the forces of friction the sumo ring exerts on the tire tread with and
without payload.
√ Remove the tire treads and repeat the experiment.
Your Turn
√ Repeat Activity #1, and test to find out if the position of the payload added to the
SumoBot can be adjusted to give it added advantage.
√ Be creative with testing different materials for tire treads. Try cutting a balloon
in half and then stretch it around each tire. How about the material in surgical
gloves? Neoprene, broccoli rubber-bands, sections of bicycle innertube, silicone
tubing, paint-on urethane, rubber cement?