[ToddF]

Our shooter, as designed and built, included an aluminum flywheel between the two shooter wheels, on the same rotation axis. Preliminary testing showed all the benefits you would expect, consistent shots and nearly no RPM dip between shots. And, yes, the PID control over the wheel RPM was much smoother. Surprisingly, the flywheel did not make such a difference in the spinup time, as we have plenty of excess shooter drive motor power. As the electronics were installed, it became evident we had a serious weight issue, and the flywheel had to go.

We have solved our weight issues (shortening the tower helped) and now probably have the spare weight to reinstall the flywheel. But, with the importance of bridge balancing, we may not be willing to add back 2 lbs to the top of the tower. That weight may be better spent on adding a "killer bees" style balance steadying stinger. We'll see how our first competition goes this weekend.