Abstract: A mobile robotic platform and guide means therefor having a carriage with one or more uniquely constructed drive rollers having radially-extending metal filaments embedded in a complaint material and which coact with a track defining the guide means which has a length of textured material, such as wire mesh secured thereto. The coaction provides an infinite pitch rack drive. The mobile robotic platform can have the carriage thereof provided with two or more tractor units pivotally mounted thereto and each of which carry a pair of the aforesaid drive rollers whereby the carriage can follow guide means of varying contours with controlled travel and continuous operation of an operative device carried by the carriage.