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This 1/32 scale model motorized Abrams tank comes with an infrared
remote control that operates the two treads independently. Each of the
tank's motors can be individually controlled forward and reverse.
You can play with this nifty toy as-is, or hack it as a tracked base
for your next robot. The tank is powered by 4 "AA" batteries;
the two-stick remote control uses 2 "AA" batteries.
Length of the tank (not counting the cannon) is 24cm, width is
11.3cm.
The tank weighs over 730g, but nearly 420g is the die-cast
metal body. The body is easily removed with three screws. This leaves
just the chassis, which contains the battery compartment, speaker,
geared drive motors, and tread assembly. Put a piece of wood, plastic,
or metal over the chassis and you have an instant tracked robot base.
Weight of the drive chassis alone, with batteries, is 370g. The
treads each provide a 16.5cm length of contact to the ground. This
robot is best over wood, concrete, grass, and dirt.
A unique feature of the drive system for this tank is that the geared
motors are clutched. This prevents damage to the gears of the motors
should the treads get caught up in anything. Current draw of each motor
is 500 mA under normal load, and 1 Amp at full load -- at which point
the clutch engages and prevents further stalling of the motor. The
current measurements were taken at 4.5 volts, the approximate output
voltage from a bipolar H-bridge (such as an L298) when operated at 6
volts.
The 46cm long treads are made of durable rubber. The tread
engages over sprocketed drive wheels and eliminates slippage. Eight
guide rollers keep the tread flat on the ground, and make it nearly
impossible for the tank to "jump" its track.
If you're looking for a hackable tracked base for your robot, this is
it! We think it's one of the best currently available, and at a decent
price.
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