2.1.1 - Stage 1D (Design Methodology)

2.1.1 - Stage 1D (Design Methodology)

Objective: Learn the principles of “Top-Down Design” by using master layout sketches to model a complete Swerve Drivebase and integrate a pre-modeled scoring mechanism.

Note

📋 Prerequisites: Before You Start Ensure you have successfully completed and received mentor sign-off for the following modules:

• 1.2.4 - Stage 1C (Practice Mechanisms)

• 1.3.4 - Safety Practical

• 1.4.14 - Skill Check - Level 02

• 1.5.5 - Skill Check - Drive Challenge

• 1.5.10 - Launcher Competition

  Danger

  STOP

If you have not completed the modules above, you do not have the required safety or technical clearance to begin this task.

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So far, you have only modeled isolated parts and simple gearboxes. In this stage, you will dive right into designing for a real robot. You will learn the exact workflow Team 2064 uses to manage complex, multi-part assemblies without the CAD model breaking.

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🛠️ Step 1: Access Your Workbench

This project requires a specific set of master layout templates and pre-modeled scoring mechanisms (elevators/intakes). You must work within the official classroom workbench to ensure these external assets load correctly.

1. Enter the Classroom: Click the button below to open the Stage 1D Workbench.
2. Launch Your Workspace: Use the portal to open or generate your specific project document. This document will serve as your “Master Assembly” for the entire drivebase project.

Enter Stage 1D Workbench :material-truck-fast-outline:

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🚦 Step 2: Complete the Training Project

Now that your project document is open, work through the sections below in order. Read the theory sections carefully before jumping into the CAD—Top-Down design is the most important CAD skill you will learn for competition season.

Tip

Navigating the Course All links below will open in a new browser tab so you don’t lose your place on this page!

• Part 1: The Theory Read these to understand the “Master Sketch” philosophy.

  • Read: Top Down Design :material-open-in-new:
  • Read: Project Overview :material-open-in-new:

• Part 2: The Drivebase Project Follow the tutorials to model the chassis tubes and assemble the base inside your Step 1 document.

  • Go to Step 1: Layout Sketch :material-open-in-new:
  • Go to Step 2: Part Studio :material-open-in-new:
  • Go to Step 3: Assembly :material-open-in-new:

• Part 3: Final Integration Add the bellypan, bumpers, and the scoring mechanism to your drivebase.

  • Go to Step 4: Adding Components :material-open-in-new:
  • Go to Step 5: Top Level Assembly :material-open-in-new:

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✅ Step 3: The Return Checklist

Welcome back! You just modeled the foundation of a modern FRC robot. Verify your work against our team standards:

• My drivetrain frame is 100% driven by the master Layout Sketch.
• If I change one dimension in the Layout Sketch, the tubes and module positions update automatically.
• The COTS Swerve Modules are properly mated and organized in sub-assemblies.
• The Top-Level Assembly is free of red/yellow mating errors.

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📸 Step 4: Submission & Review

To finalize this module:

1. Submit in Onshape: Click the Submit button inside the Onshape Classroom interface.
2. Design Review: Notify a CAD mentor. They will check your layout constraints and verify that the elevator mechanism is correctly integrated into your chassis.

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🎉 Module Complete! Once your drivebase is approved, you are ready to learn the final workflow for specific subsystems.