pic: 303 Prototype Sheet Metal Drivebase

[TylerS]

Originally Posted by Taylor

Perhaps I'm looking at the render incorrectly, but it looks like the gearboxes are offset from each other (the one on the robot's left is more forward, the one on the robot's right is more aft) rather than being directly across from each other. I assume this was designed so that the right and left sides would be congruent to each other and easier to manufacture, but I would think if they were lined up, the bellypan would be more uniformly accessible. I was hoping you would speak about why you decided to design it as you did.

Oh yes you're correct, I decided to do that to keep the CG dead center.

Originally Posted by AustinSchuh

This frame looks similar to 971's 2013 drive base. We just released CAD of that frame. Take a look and see if it gives you any ideas. It has treated us very well, so you are off to a good start.

Off the top of my head, your front and back frame rails aren't beefy enough. Make the top flange like 1.5 - 2" long, and add a bend off the back of it for strength.

Any reason why you didn't leave the wheel cutouts as a hole with metal all around it rather than cutting it out to the edge like you did? It will be stronger, especially in the corners.

I like to leave some holes in the top of the frame rail so I can see things like tread wear, and belt (or gear in this case) health.

I actually have been looking at that CAD among others for inspiration since this is only my second attempt at an FRC drive-base.

That's a good point and I'm going to change that before we send it off to be manufactured.

Another good idea that I'll probably add. Thanks for all the suggestions, this is the reason I posted here so we don't have to waste our sponsors time and moeny.