Application Examples

Most FRC robot mechanisms follow similar build styles and fundamentals. This section goes over subsystem archetypes and modular components used to build a functional competition robot.

Core Robot Subsystems

Chassis & Drivetrain: The foundation of any FRC robot. Here you'll find info about the Kit of Parts chassis, which uses a parallel plate construction, and swerve drive systems, which utilize corner modules bolted to drive rails.

Intakes: Using linkages or arms for deployment, consider material for impact resistance and wheel type for control. You may consider using mecanum wheels to center game pieces and compliant wheels for positive grip.

Launchers: The three primary types are flywheels, catapults, and linear punches. Each comes with variability in shot consistency and complexity.

Arms: Common for moving objects between heights; common to FRC are single-joint and complex multi-jointed arms.

Elevators: Highly complex subsystems often using COTS bearing blocks and box/punch tubing for reliable vertical movement.

Climbers: Often a "wild card" design, these are commonly implemented as telescoping elevator systems.