Every robot can be broken down into simple, independent mechanisms that work together to make the robot function. It is important to be able to distinguish and identify these mechanisms because each one has its own unique properties and mechanical differences.
The drivetrain of a robot is the most essential mechanism of the robot. Without the drivetrain, the robot can’t move. So because of this, we always start with the drivetrain and build off of it. There are a few different types of drivetrain but 2 main designs: tank and swerve.
A tank drive is a very simple and intuitive drivetrain that you have probably seen in the real world very often. It simply consists of a line of wheels on either side of the robot, just like a car. These wheels can also be connected together with a tread like a tank, hence the name.