Jinhao Cui's blog

 This week's main task for me is re-modify the BOM. From last semester, our original budget is around $10,000. However, with the consideration of real situation (track length, maker Fair, etc), some components in the original BOM are considered as surplus. Therefore, these parts can be deleted. Also, there are parts that can be replaced by cheaper parts. For example, main wheels, plywood instead of sheet metal. By doing that, the total cost can be dropped to $3000.

During these two weeks , I have redone this bill of material. Since the beginning of this semester, I start to realize that money is one thing that stops our project to go further. My main task is to find expensive components on the BOM that can be replaced by some cheaper parts. One thing I found that can be replaced is the wheel. Originally, the wheels will cost around $300. But, one Mcmaster carr I found a wheel that will only cost $12. Although, this wheel doesn't suit every criteria with our design. But compare to the huge saving. I have decide to let my team know that this is an option that can help us save a lot of time in the future.