Introduction to Motion

Power transmission is the system of components that transfers motion from your motors to the moving parts of your robot. The easiest way to think of it is how you get things like wheels, arms, or intake mechanisms to spin. In FTC, choosing the right transmission method can impact your performance, efficiency, reliability, and maintainability.

This page provides an overview of common power transmission systems used in FTC, along with guidance on when and why to use each one.

Common Power Transmission Methods

Each of the following methods has its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases:

Chain and Sprocket

• Pros: Allows flexible placement, strong under load

• Cons: Requires tensioning, can be noisy

• Use Cases: Drivetrains, arms, elevator mechanisms

Belts and Pulleys

• Pros: Quiet, lightweight, flexible layouts

• Cons: Can slip if not properly tensioned, lower load capacity

• Use Cases: Intakes, transfer systems, turrets

Spur Gears

• Pros: High efficiency, compact, precise

• Cons: Requires rigid mounting, sensitive to misalignment

• Use Cases: Drivetrains, linear slides, arms

Tutorials and Examples

• Designing a Custom Gearbox in Onshape

• Chain Tensioning Techniques