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Originally Posted by seanwitte
I don't have a problem with teams buying composite parts like gearboxes. Its just smart design. What does seem odd is that its ok to buy a gearbox, but it isn't ok to build one in the Fall and use it on the FRC robot.
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Sean makes a very good point. With the rules as they are, teams could actually be 'encouraged' to buy off the shelf products instead of developing their own. I don't think everyone will go that way, and especially the veteran teams who have developed capabilities. (Maybe there can be a way to allow some fall work to be incorporated in the next seasons machine.)
But for a new team, or one with limited engineering resources - some "off the shelf" product could be a boost to the team and allow them to concentrate on some other facets of the robot.
I first thought I was 'against' this idea, but as I have typed, I think I am more and more for it. It will level the field and make teams more competitive -and maybe a bit of success on the field will keep the students interested in their team and all of the 'hidden' benefits!!!.