The Nomad 4WD Off-Road Chassis kit from Actobotics allows for quick and easy structural customization with just a hex key. Photo courtesy of Sparkfun.com.
Sparkfun has released a new robot chassis kit: the Nomad 4WD Off Road from Actobotics. The robot is based on the aluminum channels that are the core of the Actobotics system. The channels feature a pattern of holes in two sizes. The holes make it easy to customize the robot by attaching a wide range of parts from the Actobotics system, using only a hex key.
An ABS plastic body that sits in the center of the robot has two large access panels. Clips can also be purchased for attached a Raspberry Pi or Arduino board. (Electronics not included.)
The tires on this bot offer great traction and cushion. Four planetary gear-head motors make for a durable robot. The base itself offers interesting articulation: if the front left wheel goes up the back left wheel goes down. It’s akin to having a see saw holding together the front wheel to the back.
Nomad 4WD Off Road Kits are currently available on pre-order for $279.99.