[dtengineering]

Eric, as usual, has some good suggestions...

Rather than ship an entire robot, why not take some plans and build one?

Although the IFI Chassis metal is quick and easy to assemble, there are lots of designs that might serve as the basis for a chassis that you can build using locally-sourced components. The VEX control system is quite capable of running a full-size FRC bot. You just need some bigger motors, gearboxes and speed controllers.

I appreciate the desire to show off a full-size machine... they are truly impressive, especially when the pneumatics start to hiss and the motors whirr...

There may be a team willing to part with a robot for a good cause like this, or at least part with some of the components that you will need to build an FRC-sized machine as a practice/demo bot, but it is quite possible that they are unable to respond right now as most North American schools are on summer holidays for another week.

If you should happen to find a team willing to share their 'bot or crucial components, don't stop there... their experience is worth far more than the robot ever could be. See how they can help mentor your team for the rest of the season.

Jason