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Say Hello to the Swerve X2S line!

by R. C. on October 25, 2024

 

The new X2S and X2St swerve modules are a complete overhaul of the previous XS module. We have worked to strike a balance between performance, size, weight, and cost with these new versions, and have taken into account a ton of lessons learned from the many years of development everyone on our team has done on numerous different modules.

Size Comparison

  • Dimensions are for the main module area and do not include mount wings.
  • Dimensions are from the edges of the plates which align to the frame perimeter, and from the floor.
  • Height assumes Kraken X60 used for drive on X2S configuration.
  • Clearance to ground assumes Kraken X44 used for steering on X2St configuration.

Weight Comparison

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  • All weights for configurations are calculated without any motors, and using the molded wheel hub pair and molded wheel high-grip tread.

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Features that are constant across both module options:

  • New Steering Motor → The design of these new modules takes advantage of the new Kraken X44 motor to provide great steering control in a compact package. The design is also able to accept other standard 550 and 775 style motors. The steering motor is also easy to access and remove if needed on both module versions.

  • Encoder Flexibility → The modules include the new Spartan Mag Encoder, providing an easy way to have everything needed to get started with your swerve within the cheapest budget possible. The modules also have the option to use the CTR CANcoder, CTR Mag Encoder, and REV Through Bore Encoder. We should have models uploaded soon that can be printed to allow for use of the Thrifty Absolute Magnetic Encoder, and the Redux HELIUM Canandmag Encoder.

  • ThroughBore Encoder Compatibility → The modules are set up to take advantage of the new WCP ThroughBore by CANcoder (1/2" Hex). This encoder fits inside the module on-axis and, when assembly instructions are followed, results in no need for setting the zero position of the module. This means that swapping modules does not require resetting the zero position. The WCP ThroughBore by CANcoder (½” Hex) also integrates tightly into CTRE’s software including the fused CANcoder modes.

  • Drive Motor Flexibility → The modules accept any number of common drive motors, including the Kraken X60, NEO, Vortex, CIM, and even the Kraken X44 (we recommend this only for testing).

  • Corner Mounting → Modules have the same style mounting to frame members, set up for standard 2” tube height, and sit at the same height, allowing for a mix and match of both module versions. The wheel is always tucked into the corner of the module to guarantee the largest possible wheel base.

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  • Corner Removal → Both module variations can be removed from the frame by pulling it to the outside corner of the robot. This means there is no need for extra clearance to the inside of the module to be able to slide the module off the frame tubes and then lift up or down; simply take the mount screws off and rotate the module out of the corner of the frame.

  • RH/LH Availability → All versions have Right-Hand and Left-Hand versions available. The X2S difference is minimal, and doesn’t affect overall package size in either direction. The bottom plate for a given hand is shared between X2S and X2St.

  • Standard Top Mount Holes → All top plates have a standard 1in pitch array of #10-32 tapped holes to allow for easy mounting of other COTS components for your robot design. These holes are also on pitch with the frame mounting holes.

  • Enclosed → Both versions are generally enclosed from the top and bottom to prevent debris from getting into the modules. Additional shields to cover the inside faces of the module are available to add to the frame to further enclose the module. The bumpers close off the outside sides to complete the enclosure of the module for maximum protection.

  • Clear Upgrade Path → Teams can easily swap from the X2S → X2St with just 2 plates and an additional hardware pack, while swapping from the X2St → X2S only requires a single plate. Ratio kits are the same regardless of module configuration.

  • Consistent Steering Ratio → The steering ratio does not change between module versions. The overall ratio is 25.9:1, and utilizes all gears to be as reliable as possible. The same parts for steering are used across both module versions, with the addition of one extra idler gear shaft on the X2St.

  • Improved Wheel & Fork → Changing out wheels is now way easier! Forks have built in spacers so no need for snap rings or separate spacers to hold the wheel in place. Forks are made of 7075 aluminum and contour around the inside of the x-contact steering bearing for a very rigid setup.

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  • Gear Material & Component Integration → All gears come as steel with the exception of the large 74T steering gear, which is 7075 aluminum to provide great strength. Where possible, shafts have been built into the gears which reduces backlash and components.

  • Wheel Choices → This module supports 3 types of wheels, 2 of which will be available this year. All wheel options are 3.5in diameter.

    • Aluminum + Tread: This is the classic tried and true wheel configuration, designed to utilize standard 1.5in wide tread.
    • Molded High Grip: Two piece plastic hub combined with a molded high grip wheel that features a V-shaped taper to lock this in. The molded high grip wheel is 1.75in wide. No more bolts to come loose and easy to do wheel swaps. These are expected to be available mid to late November.
    • Molded Smooth: Similar to the high grip wheel, it has the same keying and locking pattern but smooth instead of spiked outer surface. This molded wheel is 1.75in wide as well. This can be used with the same hub as the high grip wheel, and will be available in late Q1 2025. These are great for demos or areas where you don’t need the extra grip!
  • Drive Ratio Options → Both module versions accept the same gear ratio kits. There are 3 different gear sets, each with 3 different pinion gear options to provide a total of 9 possible speeds. Each module includes your choice of a gearset, and additional gear sets can also be purchased. Below are a list of the different ratio options, with free speeds listed assuming Kraken X60 without FOC utilized:

X2S Variation

  • Various mount hole options for clocking motor wires in different directions, including straight to the left and right, and at 45 degrees.

  • Kraken X60 or X44 for the drive motor can mount to a separate plate that then mounts to the main top plate. This allows for easy removal of the motor without the need to take apart the rest of the module, and eliminates the risk of motor mount screws falling down into the module. (This is limited to Kraken motors due to shaft and machine key lengths on other common motors).

X2St Variation

  • All mount holes for both the drive and steering motors are accessible without taking apart anything else on the module.

  • 1in wide frame members can be placed directly on top of the module without any interference for additional robot structure.

Website

  • Similar to our product pages for the new X2 modules, we have improved our ordering process to include a few different methods.
    • Suggested Kits → First time buyers, this is the default option for first time buyers to get going.
    • Complete Kits → Customize your module for various motors and tube or corner mount. This is for more teams knowing exactly what they want.
    • Conversion Kits → Want to swap from the current module to any of the others? This preselects items you need to do this.
    • Individual Components → Every single part broken out for individual order.

Software

  • The new X2S line is compatible with the CTR Electronics Swerve Generator inside of Tuner X
  • Modules will plug and play with this software as long as other CTR components are used (TalonFX etc…).

Closing Notes

  • Modules expected to start shipping in mid December, could possibly be sooner. All modules will ship with a molded hub pair and high-grip wheel, as well as the new Spartan Mag Encoder.
  • Low price points → Similar to the X2 modules, our goal was to continue to keep the X2S as the most affordable swerve module option available to teams, while providing top level performance. Prices are as follows, and do not include motors.
    • X2S → $279.99
    • X2St → $324.99
  • From now until kickoff, any teams that order the X2S will get 2 free sets of high-grip molded wheels!
  • Configurable Onshape models will be ready and on MKCAD this weekend. The X2 module configurable file is now live on MKCAD!

Swerve X2S

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