Author Topic: sheet metal to make a plank?  (Read 2764 times)

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Offline gkiverm123Topic starter

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sheet metal to make a plank?
« on: November 24, 2014, 09:56:13 AM »
I'm trying to create a plank on the back of my robot. Something like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XCgjT_JX_Q
 (The one on the black/white/blue robot).

I was thinking of using sheet metal and it seems easy to figure out what to use. I need something soft enough to flex by hand and which won't have enough stress to topple my robot (only 3 lbs) but still not as flexible that it is no longer effective. From the wikipedia page (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheet_metal) I can't figure out which gauge of metal would work the best.

Does anyone have an suggestions? Or if you could think of a better material instead of sheet metal to use? Thanks!

Offline mklrobo

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Re: sheet metal to make a plank?
« Reply #1 on: January 23, 2015, 01:33:46 PM »
 :) Glad to offer my opinion!
I would suggest to use a model from the automotive industry;
They can use a thinner metal, just bent. Bending the metal
can add strength to the  plank, without adding more metal, which
causes more weight. I try to approach solving these types of problems
by observing real world applications, then adapting those to my
needs. (After all, those inventors already did the work!  ;)  )
Good luck!

Offline Ibaeni

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Re: sheet metal to make a plank?
« Reply #2 on: February 09, 2015, 05:29:48 PM »
You may be able to find some aluminum at a store like Home Depot or Lowes. For ordering online, mcmaster carr (http://www.mcmaster.com/) is a great resource. Depending on the load you want to carry, something like acrylic or garolite may work better than metal.

What exactly is the purpose of the plank?

Offline mklrobo

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Re: sheet metal to make a plank?
« Reply #3 on: February 10, 2015, 09:32:58 AM »
 :) Hello!
Ibaeni has some good information. I would add that some information about building
such items are on the website, Instructables; in which fiberglass construction is provided,
if that is an option for you. Keep me posted!......... ;D ;D ;D

 


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