pic: One piece sheet metal chassis concept

[Taylor]

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[hrench]

Originally Posted by cxcad

there's no real benefit; I just thought it was an interesting proof of concept.

Actually, there may be no or small benefit from a robot-standpoint (I haven't seen your one-piece design) but there is benefit from an engineering standpoint.

As a working ME that designs products, I've been trained that you nearly alway save money-- in total part cost, in assembly time and in ordering and handling cost--if you can reduce parts-count. This is a normal part of DFMA training. (design for manufacture and assembly) Granted, unlike the above image the part Does have to be able to be made with regular equipment. Occassionally multi-part versions are more cost effective, but not usually.

Further, another 'trick' when bending sheetmetal--if the bend line doesn't require as much strength, you can perforate it to remove metal and then hand-bends really are possible even if not 'easy.'

Part of why we're here in First is to teach future engineers--so I say if you can do it in one piece, i say "name that tune".