1
Two 40×40 T-slot channels are laid parallel on the grid — the two long side rails. Their length and spacing set the size of the UGV.
Build the Base
From base.mp4 · 7 steps
The first thing to do is build the base of the UGV and connect its base brackets. The base sets the overall dimensions of the UGV and serves as the foundation that everything else is built on — the side plates, motors, wheels, battery and electronics all mount onto it. It's built from 40×40 (4040) T-slot aluminium channels joined at the corners with brackets.
2
The rails are joined at a corner with an L-bracket (a base bracket) — the frame’s first square corner.
3
A rail is positioned/extended (blue end-handles) to bring the frame to the right size.
4
The frame is built out — corner bracket seated, rails squared to 90°.
5
A cross member is added across the frame (T-bracket join) to stiffen the base.
6
The rectangle is closed — corner bracket fitted at the final corner (top-down view).
7
The completed rectangular base with its four corner brackets — the footprint and foundation of the UGV.