hardware kit refactoring

source/docs/hardware-components/kit-and-hardware-guide/actobotics.rst

@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
 .. include:: <isonum.txt>
 
-Actobotics
-==========
+Actobotics (Discontinued)
+=========================
 
 .. attention:: As of June 2023, ServoCity is `discontinuing the Actobotics line <https://www.servocity.com/blog/farewell-to-actobotics/>`_ to focus on goBILDA. We are retaining these pages as historical reference for teams that continue to have and use Actobotics parts.
 

source/docs/hardware-components/kit-and-hardware-guide/gobilda.rst

@@ -29,13 +29,22 @@ Notable components
 
    goBILDA :term:`U-channel <Channel>` (48x48 mm)
 
-- In addition, low-side channel (smaller profile :term:`channel <Channel>`) complements full size channel. Low side channel is just 12mm in height and allows for more compact builds. Additionally, low side channel opens up possibilities such as a kit-based :term:`parallel plate drivetrain <Parallel Plate Drivetrain>`. Low side channel also forms the basis of the cascading kit with a 2 or 4 stage option.
+- Low-side channel (smaller profile :term:`channel <Channel>`) complements full size channel. Low side channel is just 12mm in height and allows for more compact builds. Additionally, low side channel opens up possibilities such as a kit-based :term:`parallel plate drivetrain <Parallel Plate Drivetrain>`. Low side channel also forms the basis of the cascading kit with a 2 or 4 stage option.
 
 .. figure:: images/gobilda/gobilda_low_channel.jpg
    :alt: goBILDA low-side channel
 
    goBILDA low-side channel (12x48 mm)
 
+- A new addition is Mini Low-side channel (even smaller profile :term:`channel <Channel>`) that compliments low-side channel. Mini Low-side channel is 12mm tall and just 32mm wide, making it great for small structures.
+
+.. figure:: images/gobilda/gobilda_mini_channel.jpg
+   :alt: goBILDA mini-low-side channel
+
+   goBILDA mini-low-side channel (12x48 mm)
+
+- Viper Slides are gobilda's version of the commonly used drawer slides for linear extension in 336mm and 240mm lengths. Notably, goBILDA sells a viper slide kit, which contains all of the parts to assemble a 2 stack, or 4 stack, of slides. In addition, they are one of the few vendors who sells a belted version of these slides. In addition, the 240mm slide is uniquely bidirectional, sliding both ways.
+
 - goRAIL is :term:`extrusion <Extrusion>` that complements the :term:`channel <Channel>` offerings well. goRAIL is used in the linear actuator kit for extending mechanisms.
 
 Verdict
@@ -46,7 +55,7 @@ goBILDA's kit is a solid, albeit slightly more expensive, option for new teams.
 Kit of Parts
 ------------
 
-- `2021-2022 Kit Parts <https://www.gobilda.com/master-ftc-kit-8mm-rex-shaft-2021-2022-season/>`_
+- `2023-2024 Kit Parts <https://www.gobilda.com/ftc-starter-kit-2023-2024-season/>`_
 
 Advantages
 ----------
@@ -68,7 +77,7 @@ Disadvantages
 -------------
 
 - goBILDA is not the cheapest build system; it is relatively equivalent in pricing to Actobotics, but REV is cheaper.
-- goBILDA :term:`U-channels <Channel>` are larger than the :term:`channels <Channel>` from Tetrix, resulting in larger builds. However, this is more than compensated by the fact that one can put a :term:`goBILDA motor <Yellow Jacket Motor>` *inside* a :term:`channel <Channel>`.
+- goBILDA :term:`U-channels <Channel>` are larger than the :term:`channels <Channel>` from Tetrix, resulting in larger builds. However, this is more than compensated by the fact that one can put a :term:`goBILDA motor <Yellow Jacket Motor>` *inside* a :term:`channel <Channel>`. In addition, the introduction of mini-low-side channel allows for more compact builds where needed
 - Because of metric pattern spacing, goBILDA utilizes 8mm pitch :term:`chain <Chain>`, as opposed to the FTC standard #25 Imperial :term:`chain <Chain>`. This means that other kits' :term:`chain <Chain>` and :term:`sprockets <Sprocket>` won’t work with goBILDA :term:`chain <Chain>` and :term:`sprockets <Sprocket>`.
 
 .. image:: images/gobilda/7182-rr2-hanging.png

source/docs/hardware-components/kit-and-hardware-guide/index.rst

@@ -17,10 +17,9 @@ Which Kit Should One Choose?
 
 Choice of a kit is a matter of many a debate in FTC forums, and each team has their favorites. If you are a rookie team and do not have any experience with any of the kits above, we would recommend starting with a kit from either REV Robotics or goBILDA. These kits provide a good selection of parts, reliability, and value for money. They are easily expandable and great part flexibility allows for customization. Keep in mind that compatibility between kits varies and will be impacted by the unit system used.
 
-- REV Robotics (metric) is slightly cheaper but generally has a bit higher learning curve than most other kits, as it is :term:`extrusion <Extrusion>` rather than :term:`channel <Channel>` based. :term:`Extrusion` takes more effort to work with (you need to cut aluminum extrusion to length); however, it allows for maximum design freedom and adjustability. REV is also available from the *FIRST*\ |reg| storefront, which might be convenient for teams doing their purchasing through official school procurement systems.
 - goBILDA (metric) is slightly more expensive, but is easier to get started with. It has an extensive parts catalog and can be adapted to other build systems like REV. However, its price point may deter some teams with lesser budgets.
+- REV Robotics (metric) is slightly cheaper but generally has a bit higher learning curve than most other kits, as it is :term:`extrusion <Extrusion>` rather than :term:`channel <Channel>` based. :term:`Extrusion` takes more effort to work with (you need to cut aluminum extrusion to length); however, it allows for maximum design freedom and adjustability. REV is also available from the *FIRST*\ |reg| storefront, which might be convenient for teams doing their purchasing through official school procurement systems.
 - Tetrix (metric and imperial) is probably the simplest system to work with, but its part selection is limited, and the use of :term:`4.7mm shaft <Shaft>` with :term:`set screws <Set Screw>` is inferior to :term:`clamping hubs <Clamping Hub>` used in other systems.
-- Actobotics (imperial) is similar to goBILDA, being made by the same company. As of June 2023 it is being discontinued. It has always been a solid option with reliable parts. For most FTC teams, goBILDA would probably be a better choice as it is more flexible and compatible, unless you already have a large stock of Actobotics parts.
 
 .. attention:: While VEX also sells some parts aimed towards FTC, **Game Manual 0 cannot endorse or support any VEX Robotics/IFI (VEX's parent company) products in any manner.** We cannot in good conscience drive people to support a business with a history of extremely concerning accusations of workplace harassment, toxicity, and general behavior that does not align with the ideals of *FIRST*\ |reg|.
 

source/docs/hardware-components/kit-and-hardware-guide/rev-robotics.rst

@@ -21,7 +21,6 @@ Notable components
 - REV also offers punch tubing for teams wanting a more permanent mounting system while having the flexibility of extrusion.
 - REV uses 5 mm hex steel :term:`shafts <Shaft>` and a :term:`ball-bearing <Ball Bearing>` motion support system. The shaft may be cut to length, which can be very useful for certain use cases. Many vendors have added compatibility to 5 mm hex :term:`shaft <Shaft>`.
 - REV offers 3 types of :term:`HD HEX motors <HD Hex Motor>`: spur gear, planetary, and UltraPlanetary motors. The UltraPlanetary has customizable planetary ring gear ratios for a very affordable price.
-- The Core Hex Motor may be useful in certain use cases such as space constrained mechanisms.
 - REV also has pattern adapters for other systems built into many parts such as the aluminum brackets.
 
 Verdict

source/docs/hardware-components/kit-and-hardware-guide/tetrix.rst

@@ -1,6 +1,9 @@
 Tetrix
 ======
 
+.. attention::
+   Tetrix is generally not recommended for use, due to its restricted flexibility and long term reliability. We are retaining these pages as historical reference for teams that continue to have and use TETRIX parts.
+
 The TETRIX build system is a fixed pitch, channel-based building system that uses both imperial and metric units.
 
 Special Considerations