[ChrisH]

The BeachBots consider our Bill of Materials spreadsheet an essential design tool.

Early in the design phase estimated components and weights are put in as placeholders so that we have a running estimate of the currrent robot weight. Actual weights are substituted as the information becomes available. Individual components are linked to their subsystems so we know which parts stay and leave together.

When it is time to submit the BOM, we are already done. If we have a weight issue, we know which components or subsystems are heaviest. With that knowledge we can make an informed decision about which system to take off or where we could possibly lighten up.

It has been a very long time since we were more than 1lb over weight at our first official weigh-in.

We also track costs on the same sheet, but that is usually less critical.

The BOM should not be just a chore.

ChrisH