Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

Our team doesn't use any CAD whatsoever when designing our robot, and even when it comes to paper or chalk we mostly just use sketches to get the general idea. Rarely do we make detailed drawings of the robot, or parts for the robot, let alone use scale. However for those teams that do use CAD this could be very useful at building up the information level of all teams involved, so it would be a good idea really. After all, learning is one of the most important aspects, if not THE most important aspect of FIRST, and when you pool knowledge and resources like in this idea it makes it possible to learn even more.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

The most practical solution would probably be a depository of .dxf (entire drive assembly and sub assemblies) online that can be viewed with the new .dxf viewer. Teams can submit their designs (a .dxf is no more than a few mb's for an assembly that size, probably less actually) for others to look at in 3d for inspiration. They could also leave a point of contact for viewers to ask questions or even ask for the models to be sent.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

So I'm seeing general interest here, so let's take a step forward. I can supply the bulk of the CAD files, as well as doing admin tasks if we get a site running. However, I'm terrible at web design. Anyone here want to maybe design a site where we can host this? I may be able to acquire hosting, but someone would have to work with me on the site design. You can PM me, or email me at ironspork AT gmail DOT com.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

The TechnoKats have bassically did this with components that are on the drive train for many many years. You can veiw the prints for transimissions here for some of our past designs.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

There are a few simple ways to make this work...

1) Create detail-less prints that can be downloaded as PWF's basically exploding the components (say a gearbox), the prints would show how the component works which would spark imagination for replication. I'm sorry but if Andy Mark gave detail-less prints and said "copy this exactly" it would be near impossible, which leads to difference and ingenuity. What they would have to do would be to take the prints, and create their own versions, using parts that would be easy to acquire.

2) Would be to create some sort of "read-only" file that you couldn't copy or modify. That would let the individual be able to virtually see it and take it apart. This way might lead to the system being hacked though, but I doubt that CAD files are #1 on the list for stuff to be hacked.

This does sound like a good idea, and I would love to be involved somehow.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

I'm digging the first idea. Here's what I'm thinking: We can use the Autodesk DWF viewer to allow users to check out the assemblies, and then have a service for them to request a CAD file transfer if they're serious about building it. That way we could pick someone to host the bulk of the files on a home computer, keeping the website size down.

Re: "Open Source" Drive Systems
 

I'll send you some .dwfs of an updated version of our '07 base (module and assembled) which uses AM shifters (6 & 15 fps iirc) and AM sprockets. I'll also give you the contact info for if someone wants the source.