REV Robotics

The REV kit is an infinite-pitch, extrusion based building system which uses the metric system and M3 hardware.

Special Considerations

  • The REV ecosystem is based upon 15x15mm aluminum extrusion and is complemented by 45x45mm channels.

  • With extrusion, there are no fixed mounting holes, increasing adjustability and flexibility. For example, tensioning chain is simple when sliding the mount or bracket increases tension.

  • The REV system uses metric dimensions (15 mm extrusion, M3 hardware), with the exception of #25 roller chain (FTC® standard, imperial).

  • REV has purposefully designed with compatibility in mind, as pattern adapters ease compatibility issues.

  • Many REV parts are made of Delrin, a high-wear resistance plastic, which reduces overall cost. However, REV offers aluminum options for high-load parts as well.

  • REV does have a steeper learning curve than channel based build systems, owing to the fact that constructing structurally sound mechanisms requires just a little more thought.

Notable components

  • REV’s bread and butter is the 15x15mm aluminum extrusion. It accepts M3 hex screws which slide along the grooves.

  • In addition, REV also offers both 45x45mm U-channel and 45x45mm C-channel, which is stronger than extrusion and provides stiffness and support when needed.

  • REV also offers punch tubing for teams wanting a more permanent mounting system while having the flexibility of extrusion.

  • REV uses 5 mm hex steel shafts and a ball-bearing motion support system. The shaft may be cut to length, which can be very useful for certain use cases. Many vendors have added compatibility to 5 mm hex shaft.

  • REV offers 3 types of HD HEX motors: spur gear, planetary, and UltraPlanetary motors. The UltraPlanetary has customizable planetary ring gear ratios for a very affordable price.

  • REV also has pattern adapters for other systems built into many parts such as the aluminum brackets.

Verdict

The REV kit is good for teams willing to invest the time into an extrusion building system. It is the most flexible kit as it is extrusion based, yet it has the ability to integrate channel along with extrusion. REV offers the option to upgrade parts for those wanting a further investment into the REV building system.

Note

One advantage to the REV kit is the compatibility of 15x15mm MiSUMI extrusion.

15x15mm REV extrusion isn’t as structurally strong as MiSUMI for two reasons.

  1. REV extrusion is 6063 aluminum, while MiSUMI extrusion is made out of A6N01SS-T5 aluminum, a stronger and stiffer alloy.

  2. The MiSUMI extrusion has a larger surface area, so there is more area of contact.

MiSUMI offers greater strength at a lower bulk cost. Additionally, MiSUMI will cut to the half millimeter for free, making it a great option for teams needing an exact cut. The drawback to MiSUMI is that it is quite a bit heavier than the REV extrusion. It is encouraged that teams use MiSUMI for drivetrain and structural support, and REV for mechanisms that will be under low to medium load.

REV also sells punch tubing, which is 15 mm aluminum tubing that allows teams to use the 15 mm REV building system without having the disadvantages of extrusion, such as that parts come loose over time.

With punch tubing, teams must pre-drill holes and attach, unlike extrusion, where teams can slide and adjust mechanisms.

Thus, it is recommended that teams use extrusion in prototyping/iterative design, and use punch tubing on the final iteration of their robot to save money. Punch tubing is compatible with the Metric Step Drill and 1/8” or 3.2mm pop-rivets.

A piece of REV Robotics 15mm punch tubing
A piece of rev extrusion

REV 15x15mm Extrusion

A technical drawing of MiSUMI Extrusion's profile

MiSUMI 15x15mm Extrusion Profile

Kit of Parts

Advantages

  • Extrusion systems don’t need to worry about tensioning as mounts are adjustable to your needs.

  • Extrusion allows teams to save space as opposed to channel, and is lighter than aluminum channel.

  • Extrusion allows infinite positioning options instead of being locked in to a specific distance - useful for fine-tuning a mechanism.

  • Delrin products are inexpensive yet durable for most use cases.

  • REV has the option to upgrade to aluminum parts if need be - something that no other build system offers. (not for all parts)

  • 5 mm hex is a robust shaft and motion system and is easily adaptable to UltraHex 1/2” hex shaft. Other companies have adapting options with 5 mm hex.

  • Punch Tubing is a great final iteration option if you are sure about placement.

  • Channel complements extrusion extremely well - having the adjustability of extrusion and the rigidity of channel makes it a very solid build system.

  • Generally, REV products are designed with affordability in mind, and so the components are of good value for money.

Disadvantages

  • 15x15mm extrusion is not as sturdy as channel options under high stress loads.

  • Steeper learning curve, more time consuming to measure and cut extrusion to length.

  • Requires tools such as a saw and bandsaw.

  • Requires forethought and planning of extrusion length and placement.

  • Parts loosen over time (to remediate: use punch tubing)

  • M3 bolts, especially those sold directly by REV, are prone to bending under higher load (such as when used as an axle for a pulley)

  • 5 mm hex shaft is also prone to bending, especially if the shaft is long.

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