[keen101]

I wouldn't worry about it. You are a rookie team. Anything you assemble could probably be considered prototype parts. If it were me, i'd have already built the transmissions, and be working on a prototype base welded together, and then just grab the first wheels i could find. Maybe two crappy caster wheels, and two chain and sprocket drive wheels mounted to the transmissions.

That rule has always been a little weird. To be honest i really don't know how a robot could be designed off season for the next competition. I suppose it could be done, but it would seem like a waste of time. Anything else built i consider prototype. That's just me maybe.

here are some tips i will give you:

1. don't use aluminum axles.
2. use some sort of cable ties to keep wiring organized (as best you can), and write down a "diagram" of where your wires go just in case.

3.Try to learn solidworks and draft almost every part of your robot before you build it. Just go thought the first 3 solidworks tutorials, and you will know the basics practically.

4.read as many rules as you can, and reread them later. sometimes you miss something, or understand it better later.

5. start building a crate at least two weeks before the shipping deadline.
6.make sure you have shipping info correct.
7.always have fun, but try not to goof around. both can be done if you try.
8.try to learn the areas you want to learn as best you can. read stuff that you think might not even be helpful, sometimes you find little tidbits that can really help.