Machining

The team encountered significant challenges during this year's robot machining process, primarily centered around production delays and a shortage of manpower. Early in the season, there was a wait for part drawings, prompting some members to focus on field build activities. However, even after the field build phase, insufficient completion of CAD designs hindered the commencement of machining tasks. With concerted efforts, the team managed to encourage the completion of drawings, but a new obstacle emerged as an inadequate number of team members participated in the machining work.

To address these issues in the future, the team should focus on early planning and improved communication between design and machining teams. Setting clear deadlines for CAD completion, implementing cross-training programs, and actively working on recruitment and retention strategies can contribute to a smoother and more efficient machining process in subsequent build seasons. These measures will help avoid the need for individuals to switch between subgroups during the crucial build period.

A handful of dedicated individuals had to bear the brunt of the machining workload, working tirelessly every day. In an effort to alleviate this burden, a decision was made to recruit members from the programming team to learn machining. This, however, led to a new challenge—training new members in machining during the critical build season. This not only compromised the quality of parts but also extended the time required for completion.

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