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CAD Projects — FIRST AGE 2026 "REBUILT"

Owner: CAD Lead Platform: Onshape (cloud CAD) Last Updated: 2026-02-12 Status: Active Source: 2026 Game Manual, Roadmap

This document lists every CAD project the team needs for the 2026 season. Each project includes game-driven requirements, Onshape workflow steps, and acceptance criteria. Use this as the master checklist — other AI models and new team members should be able to pick up any project and start working.

Game-Critical Dimensions (Reference)​

ParameterValueSource
Fuel (game piece)5.91 in diameter foam ballGame Manual
Tower rung heights27 in / 45 in / 63 inGame Manual
Rung spacing18 in verticalGame Manual
Robot weight limit125 lbs (with bumpers and battery)Game Manual
Robot starting frame28 in W x 38 in H x 48 in L (typical)Game Manual
Bumper width2.5 in, regulation heightFRC rules
Climb scoringL1 = 15 pts (AUTO), L2 = 20 pts, L3 = 30 ptsGame Manual
Fuel scoring1 pt per Fuel in active hubGame Manual
Match timing0:20 AUTO, 2:20 TELEOP (4 shifts + 0:30 endgame)Game Manual

Project List Overview​

#ProjectPrioritySubsystemStatus
1Chassis & DrivetrainP0DrivetrainNot Started
2Bellypan & Electronics LayoutP0Electrical/ChassisNot Started
3Intake SystemP0IntakeNot Started
4Fuel Indexer & StorageP0Intake/ShooterNot Started
5Shooter/Scorer AssemblyP0ShooterNot Started
6Tower ClimberP0ClimberNot Started
7Bumpers (Red & Blue)P1FrameNot Started
8Battery Mount (Quick-Swap)P1ElectricalNot Started
9Camera & Sensor MountsP1VisionNot Started
10Superstructure & IntegrationP1Full RobotNot Started
11Spare Parts & Repair PlatesP2MaintenanceNot Started
12Practice Field ElementsP2ShopNot Started

Project Details​

Project 1: Chassis & Drivetrain​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1 Owner: CAD Lead + Drivetrain Lead Depends on: Drivetrain architecture decision (tank vs swerve), wheel selection

Requirements​

  • Frame perimeter within starting configuration (28 x 48 in typical)
  • Mounting holes for all subsystem attach points
  • Gearbox mounting geometry per chosen gearbox (MAXPlanetary, Sport, etc.)
  • Wheel base and track width per strategy decision
  • Ground clearance sufficient for field obstacles
  • Weight target: frame + drivetrain < 35 lbs

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create new document: 2026-Chassis in team workspace
  2. Import MKCAD parts: frame rails (1x1 or 1x2 tube), gearboxes, wheels, bearings, axles
  3. Master sketch: top-down layout sketch defining wheelbase, track width, and frame perimeter
  4. Part studios: model custom cross-members, gearbox plates, bearing blocks
  5. Assembly: constrain frame rails, gearboxes, wheels; use mate connectors for all bolt patterns
  6. Interference check: run Onshape interference detection between all parts
  7. Export: DXF for laser/waterjet cut plates, STEP for reference

Deliverables​

  • Master sketch with frame perimeter locked
  • Frame rail assembly with cross-members
  • Gearbox mounting plates (DXF ready)
  • Wheel/axle/bearing assembly
  • Full drivetrain assembly with mass properties checked
  • DXF exports for fabrication

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Frame perimeter within legal starting config
  • Mass properties match expected weight (within 5%)
  • No interferences detected
  • All bolt holes dimensioned for standard hardware (10-32, 1/4-20)

Project 2: Bellypan & Electronics Layout​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1 Owner: CAD Lead + Electrical Lead Depends on: Chassis dimensions, PDH/PDP selection, motor controller selection

Requirements​

  • Flat mounting surface for PDH/PDP, RoboRIO, radio, motor controllers
  • Battery pocket with quick-swap access
  • Cable routing channels or tie-down points
  • Airflow clearance around heat-generating components
  • Accessible from bottom or side for wiring repairs

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Part studio: model bellypan from 1/16 in or 1/8 in polycarbonate/aluminum
  2. Import MKCAD: PDH, RoboRIO 2, radio, Spark MAX/Flex controllers
  3. Layout sketch: place components on bellypan with clearance zones
  4. Cut mounting holes: through-holes matching each component's bolt pattern
  5. Assembly: mate bellypan to chassis, populate with electronics
  6. Cable routing: add sketch annotations showing wire paths
  7. Export: DXF for bellypan plate cut

Deliverables​

  • Bellypan plate model with all mounting holes
  • Electronics placement layout (top view)
  • Cable routing plan (annotated sketch)
  • Battery pocket dimensions confirmed
  • DXF export for cutting
  • BOM with standoffs, screws, and spacers

Acceptance Criteria​

  • All components fit without overlap (min 0.5 in clearance between heat sources)
  • Battery is accessible for sub-2-minute swap
  • Bellypan attaches to chassis with standard hardware
  • Weight of bellypan assembly < 5 lbs (excluding electronics)

Project 3: Intake System​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1 Owner: CAD Lead + Mech Lead Depends on: Intake concept selection (over-bumper, under-bumper, side)

Requirements​

  • Accept 5.91 in foam ball (Fuel) reliably
  • Compress Fuel enough to grip and transport (foam is deformable)
  • Ground pickup capability (balls on field floor)
  • Intake width: capture zone at least 12-16 in wide for forgiveness
  • Transition Fuel to indexer/storage path
  • Must not extend beyond frame perimeter in starting config (stow position)
  • Deployment mechanism if articulated (pivot, deploy on match start)

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Intake in team workspace
  2. Reference: import Fuel game piece model (5.91 in sphere)
  3. Master sketch: side-view showing intake geometry — roller positions, compression gap, pivot point
  4. Import MKCAD: rollers (compliant wheels or surgical tubing on hex shaft), motors, bearings
  5. Part studios:
    • Side plates (left/right) with bearing pockets and pivot holes
    • Cross-shaft for rollers
    • Polycarbonate or 3D-printed funnel/guide rails
  6. Motion study: use mate limits to verify stow vs deploy range of motion
  7. Assembly: constrain to chassis mounting points
  8. Interference check: verify clearance with bumpers and chassis in stow and deployed positions

Deliverables​

  • Intake side plates (DXF)
  • Roller shaft assembly
  • Pivot mechanism (if articulated)
  • Intake-to-chassis mounting bracket
  • Full assembly with stow and deploy positions shown
  • Game piece (Fuel) fit check in assembly
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Fuel passes through intake without jamming (5.91 in ball + compression tolerance)
  • Stow position fits within starting config
  • Deploy position does not conflict with bumpers
  • Pivot clears all adjacent subsystems through full range of motion
  • Motor and gearbox accessible for maintenance

Project 4: Fuel Indexer & Storage​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1-2 Owner: CAD Team Depends on: Intake output location, shooter input location

Requirements​

  • Transport Fuel from intake output to shooter input
  • Store multiple Fuel (capacity: 3-5 balls recommended for burst scoring)
  • Prevent Fuel from jamming or double-feeding
  • Indexer motor drives Fuel one-at-a-time to shooter
  • Sensors (beam break or proximity) for ball counting

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Indexer or add to intake/shooter document
  2. Reference: import Fuel game piece; import intake output geometry and shooter input geometry
  3. Path sketch: side-view showing Fuel path from intake to shooter (straight, S-curve, or tower)
  4. Part studios:
    • Channel/tube walls (polycarbonate for visibility or aluminum)
    • Indexer roller or belt mechanism
    • Sensor mount brackets (beam-break sensor positions)
  5. Assembly: connect to intake output and shooter input
  6. Test: drop 5 Fuel models into path, verify no physical overlap or pinch

Deliverables​

  • Fuel path sketch (side view)
  • Indexer channel walls
  • Indexer roller/belt assembly
  • Sensor mount brackets
  • Full assembly connected to intake and shooter
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • 5 Fuel fit in storage without overlap
  • Indexer moves 1 ball at a time (no double-feed geometry)
  • Sensor positions have line-of-sight to detect Fuel
  • Path has no sharp corners that would jam foam balls

Project 5: Shooter/Scorer Assembly​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1-2 Owner: CAD Team + Mech Lead Depends on: Hub target geometry, launch distance analysis, indexer output location

Requirements​

  • Launch 5.91 in Fuel into hub from variable distances
  • Flywheel or compression wheel mechanism
  • Adjustable hood angle (if using hooded shooter) or fixed angle per strategy
  • Consistent launch velocity for scoring accuracy
  • Backspin for arc trajectory (flywheel speed differential)
  • Must clear bumper height on exit

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Shooter
  2. Master sketch: side-view showing flywheel(s), hood/backplate, Fuel path, exit angle
  3. Import MKCAD: flywheel wheels (Colson, compliant, or custom), motors, motor mounts, bearings
  4. Part studios:
    • Shooter side plates with bearing pockets
    • Hood/backplate (adjustable slot or fixed)
    • Flywheel shaft
    • Motor mount plate
  5. Assembly: constrain flywheels, hood, motor; mate to indexer output
  6. Trajectory reference: add sketch lines showing exit angle at 30/45/60 degrees for reference
  7. Interference check: verify Fuel clears hood and exits cleanly

Deliverables​

  • Flywheel assembly (motor, shaft, wheels)
  • Hood/backplate with angle geometry
  • Shooter side plates (DXF)
  • Motor mount plate (DXF)
  • Full assembly mated to robot
  • Exit trajectory reference sketch
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Fuel (5.91 in) passes through shooter without binding
  • Flywheel gap provides compression (gap = ball diameter minus 0.5-1.0 in typical)
  • Hood angle achievable with chosen geometry
  • Motor/gearbox bolted securely with standard hardware
  • Weight < 12 lbs for shooter assembly

Project 6: Tower Climber​

Priority: P0 — Start Week 1-2 Owner: CAD Lead + Mech Lead Depends on: Climb level decision (L2 vs L3), mechanical advantage analysis

Requirements​

  • Reach rung heights: L1 = 27 in, L2 = 45 in, L3 = 63 in
  • Support full robot weight (125 lbs) on rung contact
  • Mechanism options: telescoping elevator, pivoting arm, hook + winch
  • Starting configuration must fit within 38 in height limit
  • Retract/stow for normal play; deploy for endgame
  • Safety: mechanical hard stops to prevent over-extension

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Climber
  2. Reference: import tower rung model (diameter + position from manual)
  3. Master sketch: side-view showing robot at each climb level, arm/elevator reach envelope
  4. Part studios (telescoping elevator option):
    • Inner stage tube (1x1 or 1x2)
    • Outer stage tube with bearing blocks
    • Spool/winch mechanism or continuous rigging
    • Hook/claw for rung engagement
    • Hard stop blocks
  5. Part studios (pivoting arm option):
    • Arm tube with pivot at base
    • Hook geometry matching rung diameter
    • Gas spring or motor-driven pivot
    • Latch mechanism for lock at rung
  6. Motion study: use mate limits to show full extension and retraction
  7. Load analysis reference: annotate force vectors and moment arms in sketch

Deliverables​

  • Climb mechanism concept (elevator or arm) — chosen and documented
  • Telescoping/arm stages modeled
  • Hook/claw design matched to rung geometry
  • Spool/winch or drive mechanism
  • Hard stops and safety features
  • Full assembly with stow and extended positions
  • Mounting bracket to chassis
  • Force/moment annotation sketch
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Reaches target rung height (L2 = 45 in or L3 = 63 in) from starting config
  • Stow height < 38 in (starting config)
  • Hook engages rung securely (geometry check against rung diameter)
  • Hard stops prevent over-extension
  • Weight < 15 lbs for climber assembly
  • Mounting points align with chassis structure

Project 7: Bumpers (Red & Blue)​

Priority: P1 — Start Week 2-3 Owner: CAD Team Depends on: Final chassis perimeter dimensions

Requirements​

  • 2.5 in wide pool noodle + fabric covering per FRC rules
  • Bumper height within regulation zone
  • Quick-change system for red/blue swap
  • Bumper number plates (team number visible)
  • Mounting hardware: bolts or latches for tool-less swap if possible
  • Check 2026 rule for allowed bumper gap (Update00 noted bumper gap allowed)

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Part studio: model bumper cross-section (plywood backing + pool noodle + fabric)
  2. Sketch: bumper perimeter matching chassis frame
  3. Mount features: model bumper bracket/latch system on chassis
  4. Two configurations: red fabric, blue fabric (use Onshape configurations)
  5. Number plates: model or reference placement location

Deliverables​

  • Bumper cross-section model
  • Full-perimeter bumper assembly (red and blue configs)
  • Mounting bracket/latch design
  • Plywood backing dimensions (DXF or drawing)
  • BOM (plywood, noodles, fabric, hardware)

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Bumper dimensions within FRC regulation
  • Swap between red and blue under 3 minutes
  • Bumper gap compliant with 2026 rules
  • Mounting secure — no wobble under impact

Project 8: Battery Mount (Quick-Swap)​

Priority: P1 — Start Week 2 Owner: CAD Team + Electrical Lead Depends on: Bellypan layout, battery dimensions

Requirements​

  • Secure FRC battery (approximately 7.1 x 3.0 x 6.6 in)
  • Quick-swap: battery change in under 2 minutes
  • Velcro strap or mechanical latch retention
  • Battery connector accessible
  • No damage to battery terminals during insertion/removal

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Import: battery model from MKCAD or model from dimensions
  2. Part studio: L-bracket or tray with retention features
  3. Assembly: place in bellypan layout, verify cable routing to PDP/PDH

Deliverables​

  • Battery tray/bracket model
  • Retention mechanism (strap hook or latch)
  • Placement in bellypan assembly confirmed
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Battery seats repeatably without tools
  • Retention holds battery under 3G impact (tip-over scenario)
  • Connector accessible without removing battery

Project 9: Camera & Sensor Mounts​

Priority: P1 — Start Week 2-3 Owner: CAD Team + Software Lead Depends on: Camera selection (Limelight, PhotonVision, etc.), mounting location strategy

Requirements​

  • Rigid camera mount with known position relative to robot center
  • Adjustable tilt angle for targeting hub
  • Protection from impacts (recessed or shielded)
  • Cable routing to RoboRIO/coprocessor
  • Beam-break sensor mounts for indexer (see Project 4)

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Import: camera model (Limelight 3 from MKCAD or custom model from dimensions)
  2. Part studio: mount bracket with tilt adjustment slot
  3. Assembly: attach to superstructure or chassis with known offset from robot center
  4. Document: note X/Y/Z offset and angle for software calibration

Deliverables​

  • Camera mount bracket (DXF or 3D print STL)
  • Tilt adjustment mechanism
  • Beam-break sensor brackets for indexer
  • Mounting position documented (X/Y/Z offset from robot center)
  • BOM

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Camera has clear line-of-sight to hub target
  • Mount does not flex under vibration (rigid attachment)
  • Tilt angle covers required range for scoring distances
  • Position documented for software calibration

Project 10: Superstructure & Full Robot Integration​

Priority: P1 — Start Week 3 Owner: CAD Lead Depends on: All P0 subsystem assemblies

Requirements​

  • Top-level assembly combining all subsystems
  • Verify no interferences between any subsystems through all ranges of motion
  • Center of gravity analysis (should be low and centered for stability)
  • Total weight verification (< 125 lbs with battery and bumpers)

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Full-Robot (or use top-level assembly in workspace)
  2. Insert sub-assemblies: chassis, intake, indexer, shooter, climber, electronics, bumpers, battery
  3. Mate: each subsystem to chassis mounting points
  4. Interference detection: run full-robot interference check
  5. Mass properties: verify total mass and center of gravity
  6. Range of motion check: move intake deploy, climber extend — verify no collisions
  7. Render: create presentation views for team review

Deliverables​

  • Full robot assembly with all subsystems
  • Interference check report (zero interferences)
  • Mass properties summary (total weight, CoG location)
  • Range-of-motion verification for all moving parts
  • Presentation renders (isometric, side, top views)
  • Final BOM (full robot)
  • STEP export of full robot

Acceptance Criteria​

  • Total weight < 125 lbs
  • Zero interferences in any position
  • CoG within middle 60% of wheelbase (front-to-back)
  • All subsystems accessible for maintenance without disassembling others

Project 11: Spare Parts & Repair Plates​

Priority: P2 — Start Week 4 Owner: CAD Team Depends on: Finalized designs from P0/P1 projects

Requirements​

  • Identify high-wear and high-risk components
  • Model spare gearbox plates, intake side plates, shooter side plates
  • Pre-cut spares for competition pit repairs

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Duplicate: critical plates from each subsystem
  2. Nest: arrange spare plates on a single cut sheet for efficient material use
  3. Export: DXF nest for batch cutting

Deliverables​

  • Spare parts list (which parts to pre-cut)
  • Nested DXF cut sheet
  • Spare parts BOM

Project 12: Practice Field Elements​

Priority: P2 — Start Week 3-4 Owner: CAD Team Depends on: Field element dimensions from game manual

Requirements​

  • Practice hub (simplified, does not need to be full spec)
  • Practice tower rung structure (rungs at 27/45/63 in)
  • Built from shop materials (2x4 lumber, plywood, PVC pipe)

Onshape Workflow​

  1. Create document: 2026-Practice-Field
  2. Model: simplified hub and tower rung structure
  3. Use standard lumber dimensions (actual vs nominal)
  4. Export: cut list and drawings for shop build

Deliverables​

  • Practice hub model
  • Practice tower rung model
  • Cut list with lumber dimensions
  • Assembly drawings

Onshape Standards & Conventions​

All CAD students must follow these conventions. See also: CAD Standards.

Document Naming​

2026-[Subsystem]-[Description]

Examples: 2026-Chassis-Frame, 2026-Intake-OverBumper, 2026-Climber-Telescope

Part Studio Naming​

PS-[Subsystem]-[PartName]

Examples: PS-Chassis-CrossMember, PS-Intake-SidePlateLeft

Assembly Naming​

ASM-[Subsystem]-[Level]

Examples: ASM-Drivetrain-Full, ASM-Shooter-Flywheel

Workflow for Every Project​

  1. Import first: check MKCAD library before modeling anything. Use MKCAD for all COTS parts.
  2. Master sketch: define critical geometry in a layout sketch before adding 3D features.
  3. Materials: set correct material on every custom part (aluminum 6061, polycarbonate, etc.).
  4. Mate connectors: place mate connectors on all bolt hole patterns for clean assembly.
  5. Interference check: run before any review or release.
  6. Mass properties: verify after completing each subassembly.
  7. Export: DXF for flat plates, STEP for full assemblies, STL for 3D printed parts.
  8. Drawing: create a drawing with title block, dimensions, and BOM before release.
  9. Version: create a version in Onshape whenever a design is reviewed or approved.

Learning Resources​

MKCAD Parts to Import First​

  • Frame rails (1x1 or 1x2 aluminum tube)
  • Gearboxes (MAXPlanetary, Sport, CIMple, etc.)
  • Wheels (4 in or 6 in, colson, traction, omni)
  • Bearings (hex bore, round bore)
  • Shafts (hex, round, keyed)
  • Motors (NEO, NEO 550, Falcon, Kraken)
  • Motor controllers (Spark MAX, Spark Flex, Talon FX)
  • PDH, RoboRIO 2, radio
  • Limelight / camera housings
  • Sprockets, pulleys, belts, chain

Assignment Matrix​

WeekProjectCAD Student AssignmentMentor Check
1Chassis & Drivetrain2 studentsMech Lead
1Bellypan & Electronics1 studentElectrical Lead
1Intake System2 studentsMech Lead
1-2Fuel Indexer1 studentMech Lead
1-2Shooter Assembly2 studentsMech Lead
1-2Tower Climber2 studentsMech Lead
2-3Bumpers1 studentMech Lead
2Battery Mount1 studentElectrical Lead
2-3Camera Mounts1 studentSoftware Lead
3Full IntegrationCAD LeadAll Leads
4Spare Parts1 studentMech Lead
3-4Practice Field1-2 studentsMentor

AI / Model Instructions​

For other AI models or assistants working with this project:

This document is the master CAD task list for FRC Team 2180's 2026 season robot. The game is FIRST AGE 2026 "REBUILT" — robots score Fuel (5.91 in foam balls) into hubs and climb a tower with rungs at 27/45/63 inches.

Key context:

  • The team uses Onshape (cloud CAD) with the MKCAD library for COTS parts
  • All custom parts should use mate connectors, correct materials, and interference checks
  • DXF exports are needed for laser/waterjet cutting; STEP for reference; STL for 3D printing
  • The robot weight limit is 125 lbs including bumpers and battery
  • Starting frame is approximately 28 x 48 in footprint, 38 in tall
  • Follow the naming conventions defined in the Onshape Standards section above
  • Each project has a clear set of deliverables and acceptance criteria
  • Priority order: P0 projects are critical path, P1 are important, P2 are stretch goals
  • When generating CAD guidance, reference the CAD Standards and MKCAD Library

When a student asks for help on a specific project:

  1. Reference the project section in this document
  2. Follow the Onshape workflow steps listed
  3. Ensure deliverables and acceptance criteria are met before marking complete
  4. Update the status in the project table above

Status Log​

DateUpdate
2026-02-12Document created with 12 CAD projects based on game manual analysis