Spring RTS Engine

I was wondering if it was possible to use a third ressource as a research ressource:

For example, every unit makes an stores a small amount of this research ressource, and special research kbots (or whatever, maybe built by the commander) build buildings that dont cost metal or energy, but reaseach instead. Now this initial reasearch unit would have maybe a choice of four categories, such as kbot techs, vehicle techs etc. After building one of these buildings (which would be very time consuming) the research building is able to build a specialized construction unit or something that can build 1th: the next research buildings on the tech tree (extremly expensive) and 2nd: a construction facility that would allow to build units of its technology. therefore, the player would have to make a choice in what direction he developes (of course, techs need to be balanced) and if he wants to devote more ressources towards building weaponery (and with this standart ressource buildings) or maybe research buildings that would allow for a faster developement.

Is this possible or a good idea for a mod?

More resources are something that there has been alot of talk about, however we don't want to hardcode them. Modders should have control over:
- How many extra/less resources you use
- How every resource is earned
- How every resource is used
- What color and name every resource is displayed with.

If this was done properly then your idea would be possible.

I'm more interested in the idea of researchable upgrades and such.

As a general point I like to look at other RTSes and think about what Spring would need to make a somewhat accurate copy thereof. That's a good way to think of new features you'd like implemented. Research and customizable units would be one thing I'd like (so Spring could emulate the Earth games, for example). I don't expect Spring to ever be able to emulate The Settlers or Anno 1602 but Earth, Perimeter and C&C should be feasible.

To be honest, i think my idea is even feasble if we use one of the two existing ressources as the research ressource (even if we had to either omit metal or energy)

I've got something slightly similar in CvC, the energy capacity is used as a "research" value but instead of enabling you to build bigger units it enables you to use stronger weapons on many units.