pic: Concept Frame
 

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

I would reccomend attaching the two parallel rails on each side directly to each other. If you attach them in two places, between the center wheel and each outer wheel, it won't interfere with your plan for ramp climbing.

Also, if you plan on using this frame next year, and the game is rampless, I would connect the two rails in the front and back as well.

Looks like a good start though.

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

The two long bars that run on the inside of the frame, I would make them the same length as the outside bars that run parallel to them. That way, if there is a situation where you need to open up one end of the robot for ball collection or placing an arm, then you can accomplish this by simply sliding the front bars backwards.

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

I would start by drawing all the parts that connect to the frame, then fill in the gaps with the frame :)

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

Looks almost like the one 330 did for the 2006 season...we moved the end rails farther in. For 2005 and 2007, we had three rails for mounting purposes on the inside.

Some pros and cons of the design:
Pros:
--clearly defined "keep out" zone due to the double rail
--strong
--simple

Cons:
--weight (those top bars add a lot--if you can remove them, do so.)
--Welding is virtually required.
--As drawn, the frame could bend if it takes a side hit. Consider adding inner blocks where the wheels won't go. (Which will also render the top bar mostly unnecessary.)

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

I would add a thin walled crossbar from the left front to the right rear, this could add some cross support, while also adding a light way to support a sheet of lexan to hold the electronics. This can also be done with a flat piece of aluminum.

Re: pic: Concept Frame
 

hmm... did you draw that in google sketchup by any chance?

-vivek