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What are people using as traction for their wheels? Robot wheels are now far too heavy for this event so it seems that rubber bands are the lightest way to go. Does anyone have other suggestions for providing wheel traction? If not, does anyone know where to get some high traction wide rubber bands that can easily be stretched onto some wheels?

how would I calculate the ideal lengths for the frame of my mousetrap?

also what can I cut carbon fiber tubes/rods with?

for thin material, a sharp single edge razor works fine. You just hold the blade on the spot you want cut and bend one end up towards the blade. For thicker,, I would use a micro hobby saw to cut it. You could use side cutters on intermediate sizes, but try it first to see how much it messes up the end of the rod. An abrasive blade in a Dremel works great.

retired1 wrote:for thin material, a sharp single edge razor works fine. You just hold the blade on the spot you want cut and bend one end up towards the blade. For thicker,, I would use a micro hobby saw to cut it. You could use side cutters on intermediate sizes, but try it first to see how much it messes up the end of the rod. An abrasive blade in a Dremel works great.

What about safety precautions?

Wear safety glasses. I have never had a problem with splinters or flying chards. Sand ends as required to a bevel if desired.

From what I had heard, the fibers that are released into the air are dangerous. Do I need anything for that?

PM2017 wrote:From what I had heard, the fibers that are released into the air are dangerous. Do I need anything for that?

I doubt it, but if worried do it in a room with good ventilation. Also, a reminder that safety goggles are required for this event

I have never heard of it being a problem.. Boron which is not allowed can be a serious problem.

PM2017 wrote:From what I had heard, the fibers that are released into the air are dangerous. Do I need anything for that?

If cutting carbon fiber by hand, small fibers can sometimes embedded in your skin and make it itch. It's nothing serious, but it's definitely annoying. I'd recommend wearing gloves, mask, and goggles just to be safe. Better safe than sorry.

Does anyone see a benefit in using 3D printing and carbon fiber as compared to using balsa or aluminum? Me and my partner created a 3D printed frame with carbon fiber and it seems a lot heavier and pretty much just as sturdy as the balsa frames I used to make for scrambler.