Starcraft Siege Tank

Drive Train:

The drive train was the first aspect of this model that I developed, starting with an initial frame for the chassis and assembling the four detachable tracked sections. The rear tracked sections are powered by two mini motors each, whereas the forward smaller tracked sections have just one. The goal for this model was to have the most functionality possible while still retaining a reasonable driving speed. The drive train was only geared down at a 1:5 ratio from the motor shaft to the treads.

This model, as with the larger model crane, was built to be in sections to allow for an organized disassembly process. On the chassis, yellow connection areas indicate where the tracked sections lock into the main frame of the tank. Once connected, these yellow areas are no longer visible. Friction connector pegs in conjunction with inter-meshing brick arrangements hold the tracks firmly to the chassis. Each drive motor attaches to a power connector, normally located on the chassis itself.

Siege Mode:

Siege mode is the time when the tank deals the most damage when assaulting structures located in enemy bases. The main changes that occur to the tank during this time are that it becomes immobilized, from the deployment of the outriggers, as well a transformation to the main cannon. In this model, there are three total outriggers: One on the left and right side, located between the rear and forward tracks, and one in the back. With the distribution of weight, once these outriggers are deployed the center of mass of the tank rests in between these three contact points; the tank is lifted off the ground and is no longer mobile.

To drive the pneumatic system involved with this process, two pumps, driven by a mini motor in the forward section of the chassis, pump air continuously into the air tank, where it is stored for later use. The switch to raise or lower the outriggers is located in the rear of the tank. A second switch is located adjacent to it, and this switch is used to raise and lower the pitch of the main cannon, located atop the turret.

The second aspect of siege mode, as already mentioned, is the transformation of the main cannon. While in tank mode, the vehicle is mobile and uses smaller twin cannons to attack enemy targets. Once siege mode is activated, however, the main cannon extends from behind and protrudes out the front. This gives the tank great attack range, although it also limits the tank to a minimum attack distance, making the tank vulnerable to close-range combat while in siege mode.

Electronic Controls:

The model is powered via 9V battery box, which is located just behind the operators cab. This box powers the remote control unit, which is positioned vertically just in front of the air tank. All motors attach to this remote unit, allowing the vehicle to be operated entirely via remote control.

Hidden in the very front of the tank, just behind the grill, are two polarity switches. The bottom polarity switch acts as a master on/off switch, while the second operates the tanks front headlights. The polarity switches are operated by turning the half bushings located on

the front grill.

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