Drive Train/Gearbox

[thatprogrammer]

1. MUCH easier to change wheels, and can be lighter. You can also adapt it to a hex chassis, giving you a really big bellypan while staying within 112". http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/photos/40862?

2. Depending on what you want, this may be beneficial. We don't know if we'll be allowed to use 6 CIM's next year, and they can end up weighing a lot more than a 4 CIM drive train. The additional torque can be used for faster acceleration and better pushing, but those might not be big priorities next year. Team 254 used 6 CIM's so they could blast past the field, but that kind of speed requires lots of driver practice. Keep in mind that a 6 CIM system has some extra maintenance. (Cooling the main breaker, and limiting deceleration.

3. Shifters can be VERY useful depending on the situation. The ability to push as well drive pass the field quickly is very useful. The additional weight can be a turn off. Again, this depends on what you want to do with your bot. Keep in mind that a versa chassis will make it very easy to incorporate a shifter set up, but so will the KOP chassis.