116 has used our modular, removable "control box" on 4 different bots at 11 total competitions (developed summer 2004), with only one issue (during a practice match in Peachtree 2006, and it was an issue common to any electrical system). I don't think that 116 will be switching away from the design anytime soon.
2005 Control Box thread
2007 version (before wire runs were cleaned)
The concept is fairly simple, a clear polycarbonate box that can be quickly removed and opened up to be worked on independently from the rest of the bot. We also use the Anderson Power Pole connectors, purchased from
Powerwerx in 2007. We have used a different system for connecting the pwm and sensor runs to the exterior of the robot each year, using a DB25 cable in 2007. The 2007 version featured extensions to allow for the reset and program state buttons to be pressed from outside the control box, rather than having to open it up (next to the fan).
Beyond the normal functions of a removable control board, the box also serves to protect and cool the electronics. The large muffin fan creates a wind tunnel effect through the box, keeping all the components at cool working temperatures. The polycarbonate walls shield the electronics from impacts from other robots, game pieces, parts, and falling debris (to an extent), while still allowing for the electronics to be mounted in such a location of easy visibility and accessibility on the field.