How to design and build a combat robot

Step 3 Initial design

it all starts with a few sketches and a few different concepts. I always do a few concepts and some initial layouts so that I can make a determination as to the best design. Also the more layout is done before the final design the easier to transition to computer design for machining.

It is one of my personal rules that when I start thinking about a design I look for robots that have done similar things and try to see what was successful and what wasn't so I can always improve on the design concept.

I try and keep two things in my mind at all times:
1)Is this robot unique from others? Does it have that wow factor, and will I be happy with it as a personal product as well as how competitive it might be

2) How easy will it be to maintain. Does changing a fried motor require the complete dis-assembly of the robot? Can I change parts out in 10-15 mins if needed?

Those two key concepts help focus your thoughts when thinking about your bot. Also make sure that you check the rules for the competition you are thinking about. Most events use the rules governed by the Robot Fighting League (http://www.botleague.net/ ) , but some organizations such as Battlebots ( http://www.battlebots.com ) have some different rules. These rule sets will dictate the types of machines you can build and how to make them safe.

The last part of the initial design is to figure out what parts you have that might work and do a quick layout of your basic overall dimensions, with weight limits for each subsystem. The more planning you do at this stage will help along the way.