Evaluating Chassis Designs for Gesture-Driven Robots: A Study of Iron, Acrylic, and 3D Printed Solutions

Abstract

Gesture-driven robotic systems are becoming increasingly relevant in applications such as assistive technology, industrial automation, and interactive systems. The choice of chassis material plays a crucial role in determining the robot’s mechanical strength, weight, and ease of fabrication. This study systematically evaluates three chassis materials—iron, acrylic, and 3D printed polymers—to determine their suitability for gesture-controlled robots. A standardized robotic configuration, including two rear motors, two front dummy axles, an L298N motor driver, and an ESP32 doit V1 microcontroller, was employed to assess key performance parameters. The study finds that iron offers superior durability and strength but contributes to higher weight, impacting maneuverability and energy efficiency. Acrylic, in contrast, is lightweight and cost-effective, making it suitable for applications requiring transparency and moderate strength. The 3D printed chassis provides high design flexibility and customizability while maintaining a balance between weight and durability. A comparative analysis of these materials under controlled conditions provides valuable insights into their trade-offs, guiding developers in selecting the most appropriate chassis material for different robotic applications. This research also integrates a review of recent advancements in chassis materials, emphasizing the importance of manufacturing techniques and material properties. Unlike previous studies, this work directly compares materials under identical testing conditions and evaluates their structural and functional impact. Future research directions include the exploration of hybrid materials and real-world testing under diverse environmental conditions. These findings contribute to the optimization of chassis selection for next-generation gesture-driven robots, improving their efficiency, adaptability, and long-term sustainability.