pic: Sheet Metal Chassis Prototype

[roystur44]

One of the cool things about sheet metal bots is that it is very easy to make multiple parts once the cutting/bending machine is setup. A second robot can be made in less time (minutes) than a tubular/extrusion based frame. Designed right the sheet metal frame tolerances are very high when compared to a cut, milled and welded frame. A sheet metal bot can use alignment pilot holes to locate brackets or use a tab and notch to locate parts during weld. I'm not saying sheet metal is better what I'm saying is it is a cost effective medium to make a robot out of if you have the right sponsors and mentors who can guide the students in the design.

A stiff frame is better than a flexible frame. The chain will stay aligned and taught. The manipulator will be more accurate and precise because it has a flat stiff base. Try shooting a ball into a basket on a trampoline. I've seen other robot drive trains just bend and break when ramming our drive base. We are building 120 lbs robots going 17' /sec. That is a lot of force on impact. Aim to build your robot light, stiff and strong and you can't go wrong.