Seal MW RC Car: This remote-controlled car can drift, move laterally, and rotate in place

Parts List and Assembly Instructions:https://ifcski218x.feishu.cn/docx/ZuftdCZa4oeJOxxcRI3c3E92np8

Related open-source documentation:https://ifcski218x.feishu.cn/docx/PiaddyForoXxrIxSAp0cNn9MnGe

Introduction

This small vehicle’s journey from conception to design refinement and finalization spanned eighteen months.

Why such an extensive development period? This vehicle was meticulously engineered for curved surface design, structural integrity, and control system learning, while also requiring optimal compatibility with FDM printing. It boasts a completely novel aesthetic and architecture. To ensure seamless replication, considerable time was invested in detail optimization. We hope you appreciate the meticulous effort evident in its printing and assembly.

The initial objectives were:

1. A visually striking and modern design: The exterior, rendered with curved surfaces, serves as a tangible example within Archie’s SolidWorks curved surface tutorial.
2. Suitability for FDM printers: Printed components exhibit minimal layering, requiring minimal support structures, which are largely concealed. The goal is to create a finished product that appears seamlessly manufactured, rather than 3D-printed.
3. Facilitated circuit board replacement and debugging: As this vehicle is intended for educational use, the circuit board is readily accessible for replacement and troubleshooting, unlike the typically enclosed designs.
4. A rapidly interchangeable magnetically-attached top module: The vehicle’s top module accommodates interchangeable robotic arms, visual modules, radar units, or even shooting mechanisms. The magnetic attachment system ensures swift interchangeability and facilitates secondary creations.
5. A four-wheel simultaneous ground contact mechanism: Even seemingly level surfaces possess minor undulations. Consistent four-wheel contact is crucial for optimal mechatronics vehicle performance, ensuring stability across uneven terrain.
6. Motor compatibility with both brushed and brushless motors: Brushed motors offer lower costs but reduced speed and precision, whereas FOC brushless motors provide superior speed and accuracy at a higher price point. The adaptability to different motor types caters to diverse application scenarios.
7. Aesthetically pleasing and rational wiring: Previous mechatronics vehicles often exhibited both rough aesthetics and disorganized wiring. Archie’s design prioritizes a high level of finish with elegant and efficient wiring.
8. Simplified assembly: Acknowledging varying levels of user dexterity, assembly complexity was minimized, along with the number of tools required. Upon completion, the vehicle is ready for immediate remote control operation.

After countless iterations, Archie presents this easily reproducible Seal Mecanum vehicle, fulfilling all aforementioned design goals.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions: 250mm×214mm×106mm

Weight: Approximately 1.5KG

Operational Speed (Brushed Motor): 0-1m/s (forward/backward)

0-0.5m/s (left/right)

Motor Model: N20 geared motor

Battery Capacity: 1000mAh

Battery Voltage: 12V

Control Method: Bluetooth connection to WeChat applet; Range: 0-8m

Final Result

Rigorous testing by twenty participants ensured optimal structural, hardware, and software performance.

Operational across tiles, carpets, concrete, and grass, exhibiting excellent hill-climbing capabilities.

Generally robust against collisions.

Applications

• Undergraduate practical learning, emphasizing hands-on experience.
• A tangible project for curved surface tutorials, enhancing learning engagement.
• Embedded control system learning, supported by Xiao Zhi's open-source materials and video tutorials.
• Various mechatronics vehicle competitions.
• Parent-child collaborative assembly and playtime.