[eedoga]

Our team has switched over on a number of fronts and we really haven't had a weight problem since year two when we found ourselves 20 pounds over weight 2 days before ship date. (I really hope this doesn't come off as preachy...Our team motto is "we don't lose, we learn", and we have done a whole lot of learning.)

1 - Take advantage of and use CADD. Model the heck out of everything ahead of time and over budget based on the weight estimates you get. (this will save you time and money as well.)

2 - Use the stress analysis tools to see where you can get away with using less. I regularly see teams using 4 1/4 inch nuts where two might just as well do the job, or better yet, a weld or rivet which would require no screws and nuts at all.

3 - Keep track of the weight of subsystems

4 - Use shipping weights to estimate the weight of parts before you order them. This allows you to swap out heavier parts for lighter ones.

5 - Try to have parts have duel purpose. Use a power take off system to limit the number of motors you need, or lose entire subsystems and have a more focused robot.

6 - Choose materials carefully.

These things have helped us...Hopefully they will help you too!

Edoga