I will start out by reminding everyone that you cannot assume that rules from prior years will apply to this year's competition. But it is worth noting that, under previous rules, many of these items would be illegal for use on a FRC competition robot. Specifically, several of the cataloged items are in violation of the "no item over $400" rule. In addition, the level of "completeness" of this solution would certainly cause me to read the opening paragraphs of Section 8.3 of last year's rules very carefully. I am not saying that I know now that this solution is a definitive violation of the intent. But it would certainly cause me to have a discussion about it.
For these reasons, as well as the several other suggestions made via
Bill's Blog and in Section 8.3.4, I would strongly recommend that teams think seriously about making any substantial investments prior to kick-off in any parts, assemblies, components, or magic fairy dust unless you are ABSOLUTELY SURE they will be legal for use in the 2009 competition.
<edit>But that said, I do want to note that I did have a chance to see this modular frame system this summer at IRI. From an engineering and design standpoint, it is a simple, elegant solution to a common problem. The system is quite sturdy, robust, well constructed, and certain to be of interest to a number of teams for this - and other - applications. The discussion posed in the above paragraphs pertains to the philosophy of early purchases and (unknown) applicability to the particulars of the 2009 FRC competition, and should in no way be interpreted as a detraction from the quality product that Anthony has produced.</edit>
-dave
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