quick question to all about why using KOP metal.

[kmcclary]

Originally Posted by CuriousGeorge

i dont really understand as to why i see most teams use the KOP metal to make a robot.. [...] why not just buy stock and weld?[...]

I personally love the frame kit. We did some analysis of the frame kit. Our conclusions:

1) To our surprise, it turns out that the question mark shape has similar (though not identical) structural properties as the same sized box extrusion. That is close enough for us.

2) Due to the hole pattern, it is actually lighter per unit length to build using the frame kit than using equivalent box extrusion. (IOW, it's "pre-cheesed" for you!)

3) The hole pattern and tab on one side are very convenient for mounting accessories. This saves a LOT of time.

4) It helps us standardize on one bolt type (1/4-20, of various lengths) for almost EVERYTHING.

5) You're given parts already precut to roughly the basic drive train frame dimension limits. (FYI, we always cut off 1" per edge, to allow for bolt head thickness to stick out on all sides. Otherwise, it often won't fit into the FIRST sizing box at a regional! ...Duh... However, if you're welding it, and NO bolts stick out around the perimeter, that may not be a problem for your team.)

6) If you don't have aluminum welding available at your school (yes, that's a totally different discussion), then the frame kit is definitely a godsend to your team.

7) ...and lastly, we'd rather focus our student workforce on the game payload problem, than spend a large chunk of it on the basic framework.

So, overall, it hasn't been WORTH our time and effort to translate the frame kit into welded frame. As stated, a welded frame of the same box dimension and thickness is always heavier per unit length, AND we'd then have to drill mounting holes all over it anyway. That's not the best use of our manpower.

(Does that make sense to you?) I hope this helped!

- Keith

Chief Engineer, Team 1502 "Technical Difficulties"