[philso]

From working with professionally manufactured electrical panels for many years, I would advise you to find an alternative to using a two level panel design with one of them hinged/articulated. As Eric has indicated, it makes troubleshooting more difficult.

The routing of the wires from the hinged panel to the rest of the system is particularly critical. The wires should be bundled and routed to run parallel to the hinge before leaving the panel so that the wires twist as the panel is articulated rather than having the wires bend. Often, the bundle of wires is shaped into a loop before it is fastened to the non-articulated part of the system. This loop is especially important if the wire bundle is large. In view of this, it might be best for you to try harder to distribute your electronics components around the inside of your robot.

It sounds like you are tight on space for your electrical panel. It might be best if you can "make extra space" by extending the body upwards as much as possible, consistent with your ability to play the game as your strategy dictates. You may be able to find a way to install your electronics components on BOTH sides of a smaller panel that is still easy to access. Otherwise, distribute your electrical components on several sub-panels made from some light-weight material such as 1/16" polycarb. Attach these sub-panels to the inside of your robot using sufficient quantities of Velcro or 3M DuoLock.