CAD & DesignModule 7 of 8

Advanced Techniques & Case Studies

Deep-dive techniques used by top FRC teams: configuration-driven and FeatureScript-automated parametric design, browser-based FEA for weight-optimized structures, system-level swerve geometry and motion math, and a case study of FRC 6328's modular gusset-and-tube methodology. This module assumes you already know Onshape fundamentals and pushes toward how elite teams actually design fast and well.

Advanced Techniques & Case Studies closes the CAD & Design guide as module 7 of 8, after Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting. Its 5 lessons are about 215 minutes of the guide's ~18 hours.

5 lessons~215 min31 lessons in this guide

Start with lesson 1 All of CAD & Design

In this module

5 lessons

01Configurations vs. Parametric Variables: Designing One Model, Many RobotsChoose correctly between Onshape parametric variables and configurations, and use configurations to manage families of gearboxes, plates, and module mounts from one source.40 min read

02FeatureScript Automation for FRCRead and write FeatureScript to automate repetitive FRC geometry, and assemble a custom-feature toolchain from the proven community scripts.45 min read

03Browser-Based FEA: Weight-Optimizing Real StructuresRun linear-static and modal FEA in Onshape to drive material removal with evidence, applying loads, fixtures, and safety factors to FRC structural parts.45 min read

04Swerve System Geometry & Motion MathConnect CAD geometry to drivetrain performance: compute free speed, choose gear ratios and wheelbase, and check current-limited traction so your design is fast and controllable.45 min read

05Case Study: FRC 6328's Modular Gusset-and-Tube MethodologyDissect a top team's documented design philosophy — gusset+tube construction, prototype-first, mass-budget-driven, iterative — and extract repeatable practices.40 min read

Previous moduleCommon Mistakes & Troubleshooting

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