[SteveGPage]

One concern I would have, when I hear "U shaped" robot, is the requirement to have the chasis still able to meet the bumper requirements. Assuming you have an opening in front of your robot, the front of each of the "arms" still need to be at least 8 inches wide for the bumpers.

As for "no mentors" etc... I commend you for your efforts of doing what you can. Our team has helped several rural teams in the past via email and/or skype sessions. If you would like to have some mentors advise you long-distance in the following areas: electrical, command and control (programming), CADD, mechanical, arm and end, chasis, drive train, Chairman's, or PR - let me know and I'll gladly schedule time for you to talk to any and all of them. We are happy to help in any way we can!