Mechanical Systems Training
Mechanical engineering and systems design curriculum for FRC teams
Table of content
This module builds from generic mechanical engineering fundamentals to FRC-specific mechanism design, then to advanced, independent design work and finally team leadership. Levels 1-2 are self-guided: the foundational and FRC-application knowledge here is meant to be picked up through study, practice, and everyday shop involvement rather than a single mentor-led course. Levels 3-4 shift toward mentor-reviewed project work, since evaluating independent design judgment and leadership requires more than a checklist.
Module Overview
Level 1: Basic Mechanical Concepts
Generic mechanical engineering fundamentals, hand tools, and shop safety
Level 2: Mechanism Design & Analysis
Applying core mechanics to FRC-specific power transmission, pneumatics, and drivetrains
Level 3: Advanced System Design
Complex mechanisms, dynamic analysis, swerve drive, and cross-functional leadership
Level 4: Systems Architecture
Robot-level mechanical leadership, innovation, and mentoring
Level Prerequisites
graph TD
L1["Level 1: Basic Mechanical Concepts"]
L1 --> L2["Level 2: Mechanism Design & Analysis"]
L2 --> L3["Level 3: Advanced System Design"]
L3 --> L4["Level 4: Systems Architecture"]
EXT1["CAD Level 1"]
EXT2["CAD Level 2"]
EXT3["Manufacturing Level 2"]
EXT4["Project Management Level 2"]
EXT5["CAD Level 3"]
EXT1 --> L2
EXT2 --> L3
EXT3 --> L3
EXT4 --> L4
EXT5 --> L4