The test is a bit flawed. Instead of making the bars thicker to account for varying density, you should either change the weight applied or the width of the bar.
it really depends on the design constraints that you have. in many "robotic competition" cases - the weight is limited - so all parts are of the same weight. in some cases, the length and width are also defined - for example, plates holding bearings/ mechanisms with a defined size - in that case, the only "free" parameter is the thickness of the part. as you suggest - there are of course situations where this test is invalid (e.g. situation where you could change the parts' width.. or make holes in a thicker plate), but there are situations where this is the right test
The test is a bit flawed. Instead of making the bars thicker to account for varying density, you should either change the weight applied or the width of the bar.
true, but they got the sponsor and that's what counts
it really depends on the design constraints that you have. in many "robotic competition" cases - the weight is limited - so all parts are of the same weight. in some cases, the length and width are also defined - for example, plates holding bearings/ mechanisms with a defined size - in that case, the only "free" parameter is the thickness of the part. as you suggest - there are of course situations where this test is invalid (e.g. situation where you could change the parts' width.. or make holes in a thicker plate), but there are situations where this is the right test