PRESEASON / CAD + 3D PRINTING

FIRST 3D Parts
Design challenges.

Choose a useful part, build an original version in Onshape or Autodesk, and submit your work for coach review. These visual guides are Team 3171 study icons, not vendor models.

How it works

  1. Measure the real interface or use an approved practice mockup.
  2. Model your own design with editable dimensions.
  3. Submit CAD, export, print plan, and explanation in Academy.
  4. Wait for coach approval before any print or robot use.

Use official supplier documentation to research compatibility: AndyMark printable-part examples ↗, REV starter-bot build guide ↗, and WestCoast Products belt and pulley reference ↗.

Beginner · 100 RP RECOMMENDED

Prototype shaft spacer

Model a parametric spacer for a practice shaft interface. Include a named bore parameter, outer diameter, width, chamfers, and a drawing. Measure a sample interface before choosing dimensions; do not assume a supplier standard.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Beginner · 100 RP RECOMMENDED

Tube end cap with wire pass-through

Design an original end cap for a measured practice tube or extrusion. Add a rounded wire pass-through, fastener or retention approach, and safe edges. Show the tube measurement, clearance plan, and a section view.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Beginner · 100 RP RECOMMENDED

Cable-routing clip

Create a removable cable-routing clip for a measured practice structure. Design a rounded path, a retention feature, and no sharp contact surfaces. Demonstrate that a wire can be installed and removed without pinching.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Intermediate · 200 RP RECOMMENDED

Adjustable sensor mockup bracket

Model an original sensor-mount mockup with two slotted adjustment positions. Use a fictional or measured non-powered sensor envelope, show fastener access, and explain how you will check alignment and clearance.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Intermediate · 200 RP RECOMMENDED

Compliant roller insert study

Design an original removable insert or hub concept for a practice roller. Document the interface, material choice, expected load direction, and failure modes. This is a bench-study only until a coach validates it.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Intermediate · 200 RP RECOMMENDED

Belt guard and service cover

Create an original guard or cover around a measured, unpowered belt-and-pulley mockup. Show safe finger clearance, mounting, inspection access, and an exploded view. Never use it on a competition robot without coach and inspection review.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Advanced · 300 RP RECOMMENDED

Pit organization tray

Design a labeled parts tray or bin divider for a specific team tool, fastener, or spare. Include the measured object, label area, print orientation, and a fit-test photo after coach-approved printing.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Advanced · 300 RP RECOMMENDED

Original part design review

Choose one completed challenge and submit the native CAD link or file, STL or STEP export, drawing, material and orientation plan, screenshots of constraints, test/fit evidence, and a brief reflection. Coach approval is required before printing or using the part.

What to submit
  1. Onshape or Autodesk native design link/file.
  2. STL or STEP export and a dimensioned drawing or screenshots.
  3. Material, orientation, and fit-test plan.
  4. What changed after your test or review.
Open challenge in Academy →

Print and robot-use rule

Submitting a model does not authorize a print, a printer reservation, or robot installation. A coach reviews the fit, material, load, safety, service access, and current FRC rules before approval.