View Full Version : 2006 UTC New England Regional!
artdutra04
09-09-2005, 20:43
According to FIRST's list of 2006 Regionals (http://www.usfirst.org/frc/public/), the UTC regional is not at the Meadows Music Center this year. Instead, the regional is at the brand new Connecticut Convention Center (CTCC) in downtown Hartford.
http://www.cceda.state.ct.us/images/rivermap.gif
More info:
http://www.ctconventions.com/
http://www.cceda.state.ct.us/adriaen/convention/
THE AMENITIES. As a pristine new venue, the Connecticut Convention Center has been constructed to spare no detail of making every function accommodating. From state-of-the-art rigging, wiring and WiFi to flexible spaces, abundant pre-function areas and on-site sheltered parking, the facility has taken every facet of hosting an event into consideration.
From the sound of their website, hopefully the CTCC will have more space than the Meadows. Also the sheltered parking lot and WiFi will be nice during competitions. For the past two years, there have been snowstorms during the UTC Regional. :rolleyes:
Greg Marra
09-09-2005, 21:00
I'm excited. I haven't actually been to the new convention center, but it looks really shiny from the website.
Is there an arena-like section to the convention center? If not, then where will the field be set up? (I haven't seen the convention center either, so I'm curious).
Jay H 237
09-09-2005, 21:26
Is there an arena-like section to the convention center? If not, then where will the field be set up? (I haven't seen the convention center either, so I'm curious).
According to the floor plan there's no arena. Here's a link (http://www.ctconventions.com/Exhibitors/Floor_Plan.asp) to the page with PDF's of the floor plan.
Maybe we could use the ballroom! :p
From looking at the floor plans and description of the convention center it reminds me of McCormick Place in Chicago. If they want to do an arena they'll have to set one up, otherwise it's just wide open space.
The Meadows was a pretty crappy venue. I think it's safe to say this place has to be better.
they bring in portable bleechers
Jessica Boucher
10-09-2005, 11:17
It is a fabulous venue, and it is well equipped for what FIRST will be doing with it.
Also worth mentioning, they are breaking ground this fall for the new Connecticut Center for Science & Exploration (http://www.ctcse.org/?pg=1067), to be opened in late 2007 right across from the Mariott next to the venue.
And no matter how many times my father may say otherwise, the nickname of the venue is Adriaen's Landing (named for Dutch mariner Adriaen Block, who in 1614 became the first European explorer in the Connecticut River valley region), not Adian's Landing. Boy, did I get a ton of confused stares when I called it that! :rolleyes:
For the past two years, there have been snowstorms during the UTC Regional. :rolleyes: :( Yes, it kind of cancelled our tailgating breakfast plans last year...
But as much as I loved the party atmosphere of the Meadows, I'm also looking forward to a new venue.
Levin571
23-10-2005, 19:21
I was just at the new location for the UTC New Englands regional yesterday and it rocks!
The location is easier to get to than the medows and they have loading docks right next to where the pits are so no more going through the front doors to bring tools in. Parking is in a garage attached to the place so you don't have to go through bad parking lots like that of the meadows.
Also the venue is HUGE. I mean, if they wanted to they could probably have more than one regional going on at once and no one would complain it was too crowded.
Basically, this is going to be the COOLEST REGIONAL ON THE WHOLE WHOLE EAST COAST
Jeff Rodriguez
23-10-2005, 19:50
Also the sheltered parking lot and WiFi will be nice during competitions.
About the Wifi: I had my laptop on while at the NSTA convention mainly to play the promo DVD. The convention center does have a wireless network but it's protected. You need to login to be able to use it. I'm not sure how you get a login, but I figured I let everyone know.
I wouldn't count on having internet access at the regional.
Eric Scheuing
02-12-2005, 19:15
To repeat Greg, I haven't seen it yet. The outside looks nice though.
We think you're going to really like the new venue. And we're working hard to bring you the best regional event that we can!
So... who's coming to the UTC NER from CD that I haven't met yet?
Pat Fairbank
04-12-2005, 10:53
So... who's coming to the UTC NER from CD that I haven't met yet?
I will hopefully be coming...
My team won't be going this year, but since the New England Regional falls during my spring break, I'm considering driving down to volunteer.
Tim Delles
04-12-2005, 11:18
I wouldn't count on having internet access at the regional.
Most likely they will give out the password to there wireless account the day of competition, if they are going to allow anyone on at all. I do believe that is what RIT did last year at FLR, or they just unsecured their wifi.
I will hopefully be coming...
My team won't be going this year, but since the New England Regional falls during my spring break, I'm considering driving down to volunteer.Great, maybe we'll get a chance to meet! Don't forget to register in VIMS (https://my.usfirst.org/vims) if you are planning to volunteer for a FIRST event. The sooner the better, so the volunteer coordinators' jobs are made easier!
Rafi Ahmed
04-12-2005, 15:22
I'm considering driving down to volunteer.
Team 4 from Southern California is coming to volunteer! :cool:
Team 4 from Southern California is coming to volunteer! We're planning lots of snow for you guys while you're here... :)
DanTheRobotMan
10-01-2006, 20:35
1524 going to be there, im wondering who else? :confused:
I will be there and look forward to seeing everyone in March!
JamesBrown
10-01-2006, 20:46
I will be there to watch/scout
DanTheRobotMan
10-01-2006, 20:50
snow! :eek:
If you are one of the 40 FRC teams planning to attend the UTC New England Regional event in Hartford in March, please consider sponsoring a FIRST Vex Challenge team to compete there as well! The New England Vex Regional event will occur on Friday, March 10, 2006 at the spacious Connecticut Convention Center and we would love to fill that event to capacity! For more information about the Vex Challenge, Half-Pipe Hustle, visit http://www.usfirst.org/vex/
I was just looking at the list of teams (http://www.usfirst.org/frc/map/index.lasso?page=event_teamlist&event=CT) attending the event and we have some awesome teams coming to Hartford! A nice mix of veteran teams and second-year teams and rookies...
Peter Matteson
26-01-2006, 15:24
177 will be there as always. I was also glad to see 358 will make the trip up this year, we normally don't see them until Philly.
devicenull
29-01-2006, 21:52
The convention center is nice.. We were there a while ago to put on a demo for a Board of Ed. Conference. Talking to one of the staff members, they told us where the actual competition is being held.. Later we went and looked at the room...
It's huge. A nice fact is it's literally right next to the loading dock (You could drive a truck up a ramp on the loading dock and be into it)
The only thing I'm a bit worried about is food there.. I didn't see any food stands or anything, except for a Starbucks stand.. so we are going to have to go into the area around it? While I realize they may set up food stands there.. they aren't always the easiest to get to (long lines.. high prices).
The convention center is nice.. We were there a while ago to put on a demo for a Board of Ed. Conference. Talking to one of the staff members, they told us where the actual competition is being held.. Later we went and looked at the room...
It's huge. A nice fact is it's literally right next to the loading dock (You could drive a truck up a ramp on the loading dock and be into it)
The only thing I'm a bit worried about is food there.. I didn't see any food stands or anything, except for a Starbucks stand.. so we are going to have to go into the area around it? While I realize they may set up food stands there.. they aren't always the easiest to get to (long lines.. high prices).
While not knowing the exact details for the food vendors since I am not on the planning committee all I can say is that when I was there for the NSTA conference, there were food stalls open in the back, by the loading docks. I am not sure what deals the planning committee has worked out with the venue, but the food wasn't bad or too unreasonably priced for the conference I attended.
artdutra04
29-01-2006, 23:13
In a few years, RAGE might be only five monorail stations (http://www.courant.com/news/local/northeast/hc-monorail-intro,0,780049.story) away from the new Connecticut Convention Center - the new home of the UTC New England Regional! :eek:
Today, the NE Magazine proposed that a Connecticut River Monorail System should be built, to connect Hartford to East Hartford. The main terminius of the three lines would be the new Convention Center (aka Adriene's Landing). Here (http://www.courant.com/media/acrobat/2006-01/21613803.pdf) is a map of the proposed monorail system. Woohoo, maybe now with a monorail and new Science Center, Hartford (as a city)* won't be boring anymore! :D
*But Hartford (as a FIRST Regional Competition) is never boring!
The convention center is nice.. We were there a while ago to put on a demo for a Board of Ed. Conference. Talking to one of the staff members, they told us where the actual competition is being held.. Later we went and looked at the room... Yes, we will have use of the Exhibit Hall - a huge space - for the FRC competition Thurs - Sat, the FVC regional competition on Friday and FLL scrimmmage on Saturday... and meeting rooms upstairs for Judges' Interviews, etc.
It's huge. A nice fact is it's literally right next to the loading dock (You could drive a truck up a ramp on the loading dock and be into it)Directions for unloading toolboxes, etc. will be published to the Regional's website as soon as we confirm a few details... www.newenglandregional.org
The only thing I'm a bit worried about is food there.. I didn't see any food stands or anything, except for a Starbucks stand.. so we are going to have to go into the area around it? While I realize they may set up food stands there.. they aren't always the easiest to get to (long lines.. high prices).There are two consessions stands at the back of the Exhibit Hall which can handle a lot of food quickly; the food is of good quality and moderately priced; again, stay tuned as we put more details up on the website as they become available.
In a few years, RAGE might be only five monorail stations (http://www.courant.com/news/local/northeast/hc-monorail-intro,0,780049.story) away from the new Connecticut Convention Center - the new home of the UTC New England Regional! :eek:
Today, the NE Magazine proposed that a Connecticut River Monorail System should be built, to connect Hartford to East Hartford. The main terminius of the three lines would be the new Convention Center (aka Adriene's Landing). Here (http://www.courant.com/media/acrobat/2006-01/21613803.pdf) is a map of the proposed monorail system. Woohoo, maybe now with a monorail and new Science Center, Hartford (as a city)* won't be boring anymore! :D
*But Hartford (as a FIRST Regional Competition) is never boring!
That would be amusing to try and take robot parts on, if anyone looks at stop 15, we are actually directly across from town hall in East Hartford, so we would be a little ways from the stop but it would still be fun to do.
devicenull
04-02-2006, 22:23
Yes, we will have use of the Exhibit Hall - a huge space - for the FRC competition Thurs - Sat, the FVC regional competition on Friday and FLL scrimmmage on Saturday... and meeting rooms upstairs for Judges' Interviews, etc.
Directions for unloading toolboxes, etc. will be published to the Regional's website as soon as we confirm a few details... www.newenglandregional.org
There are two consessions stands at the back of the Exhibit Hall which can handle a lot of food quickly; the food is of good quality and moderately priced; again, stay tuned as we put more details up on the website as they become available.
I hope they are well prepared for what will happen at lunchtime :)
It is kind of nice to be getting out of the meadows.. we were getting too big for that. Just the temperature in the pits vs stands should have been the biggest hint (It had to be at least 10F hotter in the pits for some reason)
It's definitely going to be a fun competition
Tom Bottiglieri
05-02-2006, 00:27
It is kind of nice to be getting out of the meadows.. we were getting too big for that. Just the temperature in the pits vs stands should have been the biggest hint (It had to be at least 10F hotter in the pits for some reason)
Oh cmon, that was the best part!
Kim Masi
05-02-2006, 00:34
well i must say getting to and from the pits and the playing field wasn't that easy either...that silly ramp...also, the stage setup made it very hard to view the matches. the only thing is...ill miss the concert/baseball stadium-esk kind of food...but maybe it wont be so expensive this time :rolleyes:
Announcing RoboMix 2006... an Art & Technology Exhibit!
Showcase your hidden artistic talents at the 2006 United Technologies New England Regional! Consider submitting an entry to our exhibit. Click here (http://newenglandregional.org/downloads/RoboMix_2006.pdf) for more details.
Peter Matteson
21-02-2006, 21:46
I don't know if this has been mentioned yet, but unless there are any SNAFUs last minute UTC Power/UTC Fuel Cells will have an "interesting display" on the premises for The UTC New England Regional...
The Welcome Packet for teams attending the United Technologies New England Regional has been posted to the Regional website: www.newenglandregional.org (click on the Welcome Packet tab at the top of the page). Teams will find information about the event and the Hartford area. Please note the sections on Parking, Load-In and Team Opportunities.
In the Downloads section of the website teams can find posters to print and distribute in your schools and to family and friends as well as the RoboMix 2006 flyer for the Art and Technology exhibit.
We are providing many extra displays and exhibits this year which we hope you will enjoy! Besides our awesome competition on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the Convention Center will also be home to the New England Regional Vex Event on Friday, March 10. We expect thirty teams from 8 states to participate in the Vex regional. And on Saturday be sure to stop by the FIRST LEGO League scrimmage and also say hello to the team representing Junior FIRST LEGO League and experience all four FIRST programs during your stay in Hartford!
Let the countdown begin!
Team905Animator
26-02-2006, 08:34
Let the countdown begin!
Almost time! Cant wait!
Mark McLeod
26-02-2006, 10:34
We're enjoying the calm before competition, but are looking forward to seeing our friends in Connecticut in less than two weeks!
(I know I'm going to forget to pack something....)
Joining us in Hartford? We have opportunities for you! (see Welcome Packet (http://newenglandregional.org/welcome/))
Practice Field
If any teams have parts of the Aim High playing field that they can lend to us, we would like to set up a practice field (or half-field) at the Convention Center. We can also use manpower to help set up this field on Wednesday evening, March 9. If you can help, PM me and I will put you in touch with the right people!
Art & Technology Exhibit
We will be holding an Art & Technology Exhibit in conjunction with the competition event. Artwork that focuses on technology as subject matter, or innovative use of technology to create the art will be the emphasis of the exhibit. Artwork will be displayed for public viewing at the Connecticut Convention Center Concourse area March 9 – 11. For more info see: http://newenglandregional.org/downloads/RoboMix_2006.pdf
FIRST Scholarship Recipients
We would like to acknowledge FIRST Scholarship recipients at the competition. If your team is attending the UTC NER and had a 2005 scholarship recipient please let me know! I need to know your team number, their name, and which scholarship they accepted.
Team905Animator
02-03-2006, 22:31
Just saw the forecast for next week...calling for Snow on Thursday!
I hope it blows away from us.
The CA and SC teams who will be joining us in Hartford are looking forward to a little of the white stuff. :)
Levin571
03-03-2006, 07:47
Practice Field
If any teams have parts of the Aim High playing field that they can lend to us, we would like to set up a practice field (or half-field) at the Convention Center. We can also use manpower to help set up this field on Wednesday evening, March 9. If you can help, PM me and I will put you in touch with the right people!
Now there is something I'de like to see in a few year, RAGE bringing over their practice field by monorail :D
This thread has been very quiet - I would have expected more of you would be looking forward to this weekend's competition in Hartford! I hope you're all bringing your team spirit with you because I want all of downtown Hartford to wonder what is going on at the Convention Center! I won't be in the stands this year but I wonder who will be starting the spirit volley back and forth across the playing field? Who will be loudest? The Connecticut teams? or will they be blown out of the water by MA, NY or NJ teams?
I will be working on the FRC side on Thursday and Saturday and on the FVC side on Friday, and I know a lot of CDers will be there also - so be sure to introduce yourself to me if you see me... I'll have my NEMO and NERVE and ChiefDelphi buttons on...
SEE YOU ON THURSDAY! :D
JohnBoucher
07-03-2006, 07:09
We can't have UTC without pictures of waiting in the snow for the doors to open and tailgating.....
The CA and SC teams who will be joining us in Hartford are looking forward to a little of the white stuff. :)
Elgin Clock
07-03-2006, 07:57
We can't have UTC without pictures of waiting in the snow for the doors to open and tailgating.....
Don't count on that happening in, of course, the first year at an arena with a covered parking garage. The temperatures are supposed to reach record highs of 60 degrees or more by the end of the week.
Figures... :rolleyes:
Peter Matteson
07-03-2006, 08:04
Don't count on that happening in, of course, the first year at an arena with a covered parking garage. The temperatures are supposed to reach record highs of 60 degrees or more by the end of the week.
Figures... :rolleyes:
Hey don't forget, the parking lot is paved too! That means no mud to play in when it rains.
Mark McLeod
07-03-2006, 08:16
You guys make it all sound so attractive:rolleyes:
If you really miss the cold, snow AND mud we could have some trucked in.
Peter Matteson
07-03-2006, 08:24
You guys make it all sound so attractive:rolleyes:
If you really miss the cold, snow AND mud we could have some trucked in.
We were actually whinning about how bad the old location is Mark. We're actually looking forward to seeing how well the Convention Center works for us. We had issues at the old venue which was actually a music amphitheater.
I personally can't wait to see how the convention center handles us. Also I've heard they have a Starbucks so I don't need to stop off to get the triple or quadruple expresso it normally takes to get me through a morning at a regional.
JohnBoucher
07-03-2006, 08:33
You guys make it all sound so attractive:rolleyes:
If you really miss the cold, snow AND mud we could have some trucked in.
Perhaps Andy Grady will bring some. There is always a pic of him waiting in the snow...
WAIT.. He's staying with us. ANDY ...NO SNOW :ahh:
Elgin Clock
07-03-2006, 10:24
I personally can't wait to see how the convention center handles us. Also I've heard they have a Starbucks so I don't need to stop off to get the triple or quadruple expresso it normally takes to get me through a morning at a regional.
They better have a Dunkin' Donuts very close as well, or team 237 and I'm sure a lot of others will have very cranky Mentors.
We'll need to put up some signs in the pits " Please excuse our cranky mentors. They did not have any coffee this morning." lol :ahh: :ahh:
I think I'm worried about that even more than dealing with snow.. :D :yikes:
Jessica Boucher
07-03-2006, 10:25
Perhaps Andy Grady will bring some. There is always a pic of him waiting in the snow...
WAIT.. He's staying with us. ANDY ...NO SNOW :ahh:
I think we're going to stage a picture just for posterity, actually. And by we, I mean, Andy and someone with a camera :)
I think we're going to stage a picture just for posterity, actually. And by we, I mean, Andy and someone with a camera :)
Hey we could even shred some poof balls and make that the "Snow" This could become amusing.......
We were actually whinning about how bad the old location is Mark. We're actually looking forward to seeing how well the Convention Center works for us. We had issues at the old venue which was actually a music amphitheater. If you like the new venue, please stop me and let me know.
If you DON'T like the new venue, well, find another member of the planning committee! :yikes:
BoyWithCape195
07-03-2006, 12:40
I was wondering if it would be possible to get some sort of power in the stands? We will be using laptops, and eventually they need to be plugged in!
Mark McLeod
07-03-2006, 13:03
If you like the new venue, please stop me and let me know.
If you DON'T like the new venue, well, find another member of the planning committee! :yikes:
Good or bad as the venue might be, I know the people there are top-notch!
Levin571
07-03-2006, 13:35
I just hope I'll have enough time after this regional to get back my voice before the next one cause all the CT teams there are going to be so loud that we'll break the sound barrier.
Did anyone else hear a sonic boom?
Peter Matteson
07-03-2006, 13:52
If you like the new venue, please stop me and let me know.
If you DON'T like the new venue, well, find another member of the planning committee! :yikes:
Kathie,
Do we seem like a shy sedated bunch that would hold back on love or the dislike for a venue? :rolleyes: I can remember the muttering last year when we hoped that the Regional would be moved here. I look forward to enjoying the change.
Heretic121
07-03-2006, 14:34
Im so excited... 2 days away... espically after going to the NJ regional this past weekend i cant wait to see the robots up here to see how they've done and how our bot will do as well...
im praying the new venue works out and i have faith in ya kathie =D... and i am definatley excited to check out the VEX tourney in between coaching or scouting =D
Sam Lipscomb
07-03-2006, 14:44
i was at the convention center for a board of education convention (we were demonstrating our robot), and the place is absolutely gorgeous. there is indeed a starbucks, a parking garage, useful loading docks, etc. i heard that the field would be somewhere in the "basement", and they'd be bringing in bleachers and whatever else they need for viewing.
less than two daaaaays, cannot wait! :D
i was at the convention center for a board of education convention (we were demonstrating our robot), and the place is absolutely gorgeous. there is indeed a starbucks, a parking garage, useful loading docks, etc. i heard that the field would be somewhere in the "basement", and they'd be bringing in bleachers and whatever else they need for viewing.
less than two daaaaays, cannot wait! :DWe'll be in the huge Exhibit Hall space - be sure to allow for time to see the exhibits on display and the Vex tourney on Friday - if you haven't already looked, check out the Welcome Packet on the website - www.newenglandregional.org - tab at top of page - lots of info there for teams to be aware of (especially if you're driving to the venue).
Heretic121
07-03-2006, 16:52
i have to say this though... will there be no more annual RAGE Breakfast on saturday!?!?! =X *i can not bear to dream a UTC without one* =P
devicenull
07-03-2006, 18:00
I was wondering if it would be possible to get some sort of power in the stands? We will be using laptops, and eventually they need to be plugged in!
I suggest you bring extension cords.. I heard that they are bringing in bleachers to use around the field. And of course, using that free wi-fi will drain the batteries faster.
artdutra04
07-03-2006, 18:07
i was at the convention center for a board of education convention (we were demonstrating our robot), and the place is absolutely gorgeous. there is indeed a starbucks, a parking garage, useful loading docks, etc. i heard that the field would be somewhere in the "basement", and they'd be bringing in bleachers and whatever else they need for viewing.
less than two daaaaays, cannot wait! :DActually, the "basement" is really the main exhibition hall, which is HUGE! Here is a picture that I took while I was at the NSTA Convention back in October with KathieK, Ogre, and a few other members from team 228.
http://www.team228.org/images/2005/connecticut-convention-center-nsta.jpg
BTW, since there isn't going to be a team social this year, do any other area teams want to get together and do something Friday night? There are a few possibilities here (http://newenglandregional.org/welcome/Welcome%2010%20What%20to%20do%20-%20Where%20to%20shop.pdf). :cool:
devicenull
07-03-2006, 18:24
Actually, the "basement" is really the main exhibition hall, which is HUGE! Here is a picture that I took while I was at the NSTA Convention back in October with KathieK, Ogre, and a few other members from team 228.
BTW, since there isn't going to be a team social this year, do any other area teams want to get together and do something Friday night? There are a few possibilities here (http://newenglandregional.org/welcome/Welcome%2010%20What%20to%20do%20-%20Where%20to%20shop.pdf). :cool:
Is that with or without the large folding door extended.. If its without, its twice as big :)
I just hope I'll have enough time after this regional to get back my voice before the next one cause all the CT teams there are going to be so loud that we'll break the sound barrier.
Did anyone else hear a sonic boom?Hmm Could this be a challenge from Paragon? As I recall they were full of team spirit back at BattleCry...
Levin571
07-03-2006, 18:41
This is a challenge for both for us and other teams. We want all other teams out there to try and match our spirit and if you can't find us just by our cheering alone, we will know that we aren't trying hard enough.
Ianworld
07-03-2006, 19:01
I know I'm excited about the regional. Its my team's first year competing in Hartford so its sure to be a blast. I've been up for the last couple of years to see how the game has been played so I know how many great teams are going to present. I won't be able to make it up till Friday but hopefully I can see some of you guys there. I for one am excited about the new venue, the place looks great. So look out for 694 we're bringing one very nice robot(and... a few kinks to work out ;).)
i have to say this though... will there be no more annual RAGE Breakfast on saturday!?!?! =X *i can not bear to dream a UTC without one* =P
Nope No RAGE Breakfast... It would have been too difficult this year anyways.
Also devicenull what free wi-fi?
• Do not arrange for Internet access on the site or attempt to connect to the Internet.
Also my guess is no power in the stands, but I do not know for sure. Also since the stands will probably be in the middle of the Convention Center, laying power cords to them will probably be not allowed becuase it could pose a safety hazard. These are just bleachers guys, kinda hard to put power in them. Also I believe it is only going to be the larger part of the hall, as in the large door will probably be closed.
devicenull
08-03-2006, 10:31
Nope No RAGE Breakfast... It would have been too difficult this year anyways.
Also devicenull what free wi-fi?
Also my guess is no power in the stands, but I do not know for sure. Also since the stands will probably be in the middle of the Convention Center, laying power cords to them will probably be not allowed becuase it could pose a safety hazard. These are just bleachers guys, kinda hard to put power in them. Also I believe it is only going to be the larger part of the hall, as in the large door will probably be closed.
I was fairly certain that, last time I was there I saw signs for wireless internet access.. not signs from the event I was at either.
About.com seems to agree with me.. http://hartford.about.com/od/traveltourism/ss/aaconventionctr.htm
artdutra04
08-03-2006, 10:43
I was fairly certain that, last time I was there I saw signs for wireless internet access.. not signs from the event I was at either.
About.com seems to agree with me.. http://hartford.about.com/od/traveltourism/ss/aaconventionctr.htmFrom http://www.ctconventions.com/Convention_Center/default.asp
THE AMENITIES. A pristine new venue, the Connecticut Convention Center has been constructed to spare no detail in making every function accommodating. From state-of-the-art rigging, wiring and WiFi to flexible spaces, abundant pre-function areas and on-site sheltered parking, the facility has taken every facet of hosting an event into consideration.The convention center says that Wifi is there in the exhibition hall, but it does not say if it is free. If it was free, they would advertise that fact. At one of the previous conventions (NSTA) when I was there, we tried unsuccessfully to get Wifi. There was plenty of signal, but either it wouldn't conect or it wasn't free. Don't get your hopes up for free, unlimited open access Wifi there.
Elgin Clock
08-03-2006, 12:20
Originally Posted by UTC NER Welcome Packet
• Do not arrange for Internet access on the site or attempt to connect to the Internet.
I'm sure from what I've seen that this is a generic statement for all regionals. Some have Internet when you get there and some don't, but they just don't want you expecting it in the cases when it is not available.
I guess we'll find out in a few days.
Good luck to all attending UTC with or without their FRC and FVC bots!
Hope to see some of you on Saturday.
Also, going with that whole "I'll only be there on Saturday" thought, is the FVC part going to be operational on Saturday, or just Friday?
I'd like to see the game FVC game played.
I'm sure from what I've seen that this is a generic statement for all regionals. Some have Internet when you get there and some don't, but they just don't want you expecting it in the cases when it is not available.
I guess we'll find out in a few days.
Good luck to all attending UTC with or without their FRC and FVC bots!
Hope to see some of you on Saturday.
Also, going with that whole "I'll only be there on Saturday" thought, is the FVC part going to be operational on Saturday, or just Friday?
I'd like to see the game FVC game played.
I think there is supposed to be demos at some point Saturday but I don't believe the FVC competition will be running. Saturday I believe it will be FLL and JFLL stuff going on however.
The UTC NER will have all 4 FIRST Challenges and Competitions either in competition or demoing during the weekend.
I just spent the day at the convention center and it is very cool! FRC will be playing Thursday through Saturday; the FVC challenge is on Friday only; then Friday night we will tear down the FVC fields and set up FLL fields to do a scrimmage on Saturday with some local CT teams; a JFLL team will be there on Saturday and a 1/3 scale FRC field will be set up with Vex robots playing the FRC game for the public on Saturday also. Several other exhibits are planned and the Art and Technology Exhibit will be in place. Encourage your friends and family to come to Hartford and check us out!
Mark McLeod
08-03-2006, 22:57
There are at least three teams in residence at the Marriot this evening all waiting in eagar anticipation of the Regional.
We'll check out the fruits of your labor tomorrow.
Sam Lipscomb
09-03-2006, 00:20
in seven hours we'll be on our way to hartford! this is the most excited i've been all month. :D
i still have some things to finish before the comp! :ahh: see everyone tomorrow!
artdutra04
09-03-2006, 01:19
I was there from 3 PM onwards today to help with the playing field setup (which was pretty cool), and I snapped a few quick pictures. (I think everyone at some point should help with the set-up of an entire playing field, from laying out the carpet to wiring in the field controls. I really gives a sense of how much hard work goes into getting everything running, as for most people, they just come in and everything is there. The amount of work that most people see during the three days of a regional is only 1% of the total work that goes into running a FIRST event.)
The new venue this year is huge, and even with one half of the exhibition hall closed, there is more than enough room for the FRC playing field, FRC pits, FVC playing field, and FVC pits. There is also a lot of tables and chairs in the back area near the concessions stands. Do not count on having power in the stands. They are in the middle of the exhibition hall, and running a trans-Atlantic extension cable to them probably will not be a good idea, nor will it be okay with any of the CTCC (Connecticut Convention Center) staff.
My advice to everyone - BRING HEARING PROTECTION! Between all the cheering teams and the metal bleachers, it will be VERY loud this year!
http://www.team228.org/images/2006/ctcc-fieldsetup.jpg
http://www.team228.org/images/2006/ctcc-pits.jpg
http://www.team228.org/images/2006/ctcc-playingfield.jpg
EDIT: Wow, the regional hasn't even started yet and there is already six pages of replies in this thread about it. I guess its all this New England contagious enthusiasm. :p
I was there quickly today for about 10 minutes to drop off some ref shirts this morning. It did look huge, unfortunately I am stuck in school for a while longer, til about 1ish... I will be there later today and all day Friday and Saturday, I can't wait!
SchoJose
09-03-2006, 09:55
Hey..
Does anyknow know what the site is for the webcast for this regional?
The NASA site is: http://robotics.nasa.gov/events/webcasts/regionals_2006.php
But the New England regional is not on it. :(
Elgin Clock
09-03-2006, 10:21
Hey..
Does anyknow know what the site is for the webcast for this regional?
The NASA site is: http://robotics.nasa.gov/events/webcasts/regionals_2006.php
But the New England regional is not on it. :(
http://shsrobotics.org/06/webcast/
It's hosted by Team 230.
Looks like they are possibly only doing it on Friday and/or Saturday.
I'm not sure.
Arggh, I got the flu and couldn't go (today anyways, maybe a miracle will happen and it will clear up soon). Anyways, I was watching the webcast and I believe a 237 alliance has broken the high score record. Not totally sure of the other teams (anybody know?) but the score at the end of the match was 156.
Corey Balint
09-03-2006, 17:12
Arggh, I got the flu and couldn't go (today anyways, maybe a miracle will happen and it will clear up soon). Anyways, I was watching the webcast and I believe a 237 alliance has broken the high score record. Not totally sure of the other teams (anybody know?) but the score at the end of the match was 156.
Tis only practice, much changes from today to tomorrow.
Elgin Clock
09-03-2006, 17:16
Tis only practice, much changes from today to tomorrow.
Indeed it is. Tomorrow let's go for breaking the 175, or even 200 point mark when it really counts. :D
Corey Balint
09-03-2006, 17:18
Indeed it is. Tomorrow let's go for breaking the 175, or even 200 point mark when it really counts. :D
I hear from some teams up there that there are no where near as many shooters as expected. Around 40% or lower. However i have heard of some high scores coming from here and FLR. Again though, practice is much different. I expect to see some hard hitting defense tomorrow, with many low scores.
Pat Fairbank
09-03-2006, 19:24
Not totally sure of the other teams (anybody know?) but the score at the end of the match was 156.I'm not too sure if that score was entirely accurate. I was standing at the scoring table all day today and I don't recall seeing any particularly high-scoring matches.
We did notice at one point that one of the corner goals (the right-hand blue one) had lost its calibration and was counting up all on its own. Other than that, the scoring system was working extremely well *knock on wood*.
I'm not too sure if that score was entirely accurate. I was standing at the scoring table all day today and I don't recall seeing any particularly high-scoring matches.
We did notice at one point that one of the corner goals (the right-hand blue one) had lost its calibration and was counting up all on its own. Other than that, the scoring system was working extremely well *knock on wood*.
You know what's going to happen now that you said it. ;)
i was human player during that match and there was no way the score was that high... we only got like 3 or 4 in the center goal the whole match and like 10 tops in the side goal GUS also shot a bunch in the center goal.. then we had 3 bots on the ramp at the end maybe it was like 56 not 156...
devicenull
09-03-2006, 20:56
I like the convention center.. it's nice and big, no worrying about space... My only suggestion would have been to make the pit aisles larger, but I think thats one of those things that expands to fill all available space. (And what team would complain if the pits were made bigger?)
The amount of space available just amazes me.
Alex Pelan
09-03-2006, 21:03
The amount of space available just amazes me.
To quote another team member today, "We could put another field, right over there. This could be a superregional."
Pat Fairbank
09-03-2006, 21:10
The amount of space available just amazes me.Is anyone else concerned about a potential lack of seating space? I've heard that each of the two bleacher banks is supposed to seat 1000 people, in theory, but it seems to me that it wouldn't be in excess if some of the extra space were occupied by another bank (at the end of the field opposite the pits, maybe).
Only real problem I can see with the convention center is seating around the field. I think with the number of people in the pits working on robots, spectator seating isn't too much of an issue, but I'm thinking for the finals on Saturday. I heard someone say there's enough seating for 2000 people in those stands, but there's around 3000 students in attendance. Standing room is plentiful, but it sort of reminds me of the Championship in Epcot, with the temporary bleachers set up around the field.
ScoutingNerd175
09-03-2006, 21:19
Indeed it is. Tomorrow let's go for breaking the 175, or even 200 point mark when it really counts. :D
I think that scoring 175 :) is a really good idea. Lets wait 'till after 2:00 on friday to do this, so I can take a picture. (PS when our alliance scored the highest score at BAE it was 97) :)
Matt Krass
09-03-2006, 22:32
It's a nice regional and we saw some very nice robots. The IFI guys have been doing a great job with the field and I've been getting a lot of pictures.
Speaking of...
...more people need to find their favorite FIRSTcast host and getting a picture with me, so I can win the contest. For more details listen to episode 7 of FIRSTcast.
Also, on Saturday afternoon in the pit area we're going to be performing a live FIRSTcast show!
We saw some great teams out there on the field and we can't wait for competition day!
Peter Matteson
09-03-2006, 22:41
Is anyone else concerned about a potential lack of seating space? I've heard that each of the two bleacher banks is supposed to seat 1000 people, in theory, but it seems to me that it wouldn't be in excess if some of the extra space were occupied by another bank (at the end of the field opposite the pits, maybe).
I asked Kathie K. about this at the end of the day and without going through the details they have all the bleachers they could get. Please don't make an issue of it they did a lot work to get what the have. Maybe some chairs could be added at the end of on the ground if fire laws and regulations allow.
Matt, you took off before you got pictures with several of us. Try and catch us tommorrow.
If you hadn't figured it out from seeing it today the special display I eluded to was the Hyundai Santa Fe Fuel Cell car we have on display. We will have engineers from UTC Power with it most of the day to answer questions.
Gluedtothefloor
09-03-2006, 22:47
I'm not too sure if that score was entirely accurate. I was standing at the scoring table all day today and I don't recall seeing any particularly high-scoring matches.
We did notice at one point that one of the corner goals (the right-hand blue one) had lost its calibration and was counting up all on its own. Other than that, the scoring system was working extremely well *knock on wood*.
I was human player for one round when our bot was being repaired and the score at the end of the match was 2222 :confused: for our team. That was the only scoring error i saw. Also, live feed was not working too well, but that doesnt really matter when you are in the middle of a match. As a rookie team member at my first event, i had a great time, the little glitches meaning nothing.
Matt Krass
09-03-2006, 22:52
Matt, you took off before you got pictures with several of us. Try and catch us tommorrow.
Think I can get a group shot with your whole team?
Which teams provided the practice equipment? (Fields, lights, etc)
Tom Bottiglieri
10-03-2006, 06:00
[QUOTE=Matt Krass]
Speaking of...
...more people need to find their favorite FIRSTcast host and getting a picture with me, so I can win the contest. For more details listen to episode 7 of FIRSTcast.
/QUOTE]
Hey. I found you first...
Elgin Clock
10-03-2006, 10:25
Anyone else having trouble viewing the webcast? I get no video, and the title still says UTC Scrimmage. :(
Ian Curtis
10-03-2006, 10:29
Mine still says scrimmage, but I have the video feed.
Some of the robots I've seen in the past two matches are sweet. 195, I <3 your autonomous mode, but it doesn't seem that dynamic... Gus, what happened to your shooter? Rather amusing... Trying to get up the ramp and losing your shoooter.
EDIT: As of 1.27 PM the server is full... :(
Sam Lipscomb
10-03-2006, 11:26
greetings from utc!
direct links to the webcast:
http://shsrobotics.org/06/webcast/
http://159.247.235.150/channel_230_300
post any more problems here! i'll check back and try to fix them as best as i can. :rolleyes:
Elgin Clock
10-03-2006, 12:11
greetings from utc!
direct links to the webcast:
http://shsrobotics.org/06/webcast/
http://159.247.235.150/channel_230_300
post any more problems here! i'll check back and try to fix them as best as i can. :rolleyes:
I finally got an error message after going crazy as to why there was no video:
Windows Media Player cannot play the file because the server is not responding. If you entered a URL or path to play the file, verify that it is correct. If you clicked a link to play the file, the link may not be valid
Is this a problem on my end, or are their too many users on?
I used the http://159.247.235.150/channel_230_300 directly and got that.
:confused:
Anne Shade
10-03-2006, 12:16
I finally got an error message after going crazy as to why there was no video:
Is this a problem on my end, or are their too many users on?
I used the http://159.247.235.150/channel_230_300 directly and got that.
:confused:
I get to the webcast without any problems with that link. Though it's only the FIRST logo right now since it's the lunch break.
MrBamboo
10-03-2006, 12:51
i get the error message too :-/
Gah! Now it shows the video for 2-3 seconds and goes to "Waiting..."
Bharat Nain
10-03-2006, 13:36
Doesn't even start the video for me in IE or Firefox.
henryBsick
10-03-2006, 14:31
I am on IE at my school with a shared T1 hittin' a blank for any video content. I get the same error message as Elgin :(
i cant get to the live feed either :confused:
Edit: as of 3:24pm the webcast is functional. :yikes: :)
Argggg, the webcast comes back up right after my team's match and goes down right before :(
i know mike it sucked! :confused: o btw thanks for giving me the flu lol
MattD1Drift
10-03-2006, 18:34
I thought today was good, most of you prolly didnt see me, I was on the right side when you went in, on the bottom at the front of the bleachers, my hair was sppiked, and I was really shy, usually, I didnt meet anyone. But that Hyundai was eh, I mean, you can't make a lot of power out of it! As for the matches, I thought Team 20's robot was insane, scoring almost every time it could, team 126's was pretty awesome as well. My personal favourite one was the one that sounded like a staple gun though.
Mine still says scrimmage, but I have the video feed.
Some of the robots I've seen in the past two matches are sweet. 195, I <3 your autonomous mode, but it doesn't seem that dynamic... Gus, what happened to your shooter? Rather amusing... Trying to get up the ramp and losing your shoooter.
EDIT: As of 1.27 PM the server is full... :(
For most of our matches in auto it was best for us to score our 10 balls in the corners than block anyone. However one match we used our auto to block team 20 hopefully we will get to use it more tomorrow. :D
Pat Fairbank
10-03-2006, 19:08
It was discovered at one point that a couple of cables that run under the bleachers, between the field and the pits, had been damaged. One of those was a cat5, which is why the team ranking data was not updating, and the other was something relating to the webcast, which may explain some of the webcast problems.
SchoJose
10-03-2006, 19:19
Does anyone know if the stats for todays game is posted online anywhere?
I wasn't able to view the webcast today either
BoyWithCape195
10-03-2006, 19:21
Rankings
http://www2.usfirst.org/2006comp/Events/CT/rankings.html
Match Results
http://www2.usfirst.org/2006comp/Events/CT/matches.html
Awards
http://www2.usfirst.org/2006comp/Events/CT/awards.html
Want to know another problem the people that run the Convention Center are nuts. They want to charge for everything and give you nothing. On our practice field, one of the workers on the Convention Center said that we had to unplug the green light on top of the center goal because it was not in our contract to use the electricity. :ahh:
MattD1Drift
10-03-2006, 19:52
Oh yah, getting haggled by teammates because I wasn't trying to get girls numbers or anything all day was fun too...even though there were quite a few pretty girls there, haha.
Congrats to 195 and 20 for their awards this year. Well deserved :)
Congrats to 195 and 20 for their awards this year. Well deserved :)
Thank you.
Our programmers worked hard on the program and I think they deserve the recognition for their work.
Congrats Team 20. :cool:
MattD1Drift
10-03-2006, 20:19
Yeah, Southington must have gotten back before me, as I have to go to New Britain then to southington, since I live in Southington.
devicenull
10-03-2006, 20:29
I'm liking the new venue, there is a lot more space. Food seems to be better, although I almost paniced when they were having problems with the soda machines. ;)
My only complaint so far, is that the camera seems to like the overhead lights somewhat, and I only realized now thats why our autonomous works fine on the practice field (No lights in the background) vs the real field. Now that I realize this, it's not hard to fix... Maybe warn the teams about this next year?
Jay H 237
10-03-2006, 20:40
Want to know another problem the people that run the Convention Center are nuts. They want to charge for everything and give you nothing. On our practice field, one of the workers on the Convention Center said that we had to unplug the green light on top of the center goal because it was not in our contract to use the electricity. :ahh:
This is typical of union run venues, which it sounds like the Convention Center is. Some venues and unions are worse than others. I don't know what arrangements FIRST has set up with this venue. If you speak to someone from FIRST at the comp they should be able clear it up.
Doing trade shows for the company I work for I've run into this. Even if there's electric available YOU can't plug YOUR stuff into it YOURSELF. If you need something plugged in you must tell the contractor in charge of your booth and then they will tell whoever is in charge of plugging things in and then someone will come by in an hour or so (if you're lucky) and plug that cord in for you. The Convention Center isn't that bad but there are places that are.
The same goes for compressed air and waste drains that are also available at some venues.
(The thing that really makes the venues happy is when you have contractors secure everything to the floor with lead shields and lag bolts. Better yet, you really make thier day when you use`RedHeads instead! :D The company has been "fined" several times for this, $90 per use of shield/lag and $150 per use of RedHead. With some of our equipment we have no choice but to secure it for safety reasons. It's cheaper to pay the "fine" which is really the "bill" for repairing the floor than having a piece of equipment fall over on someone.)
I'm hoping to get a few minutes to get into the pits and to actually see some matches tomorrow - if you're from CD and you see me please say Hi so I get to meet you! Hope you all had a chance to watch our AWESOME Vex event - we had a blast on the other side today! :D
MattD1Drift
10-03-2006, 21:54
I think I know why I didn't meet people, because it is EXTREMELY difficult to talk to people I do not know. So, if anyone would like to say hi to me or something, it would be cool, as it's a little easier for me to talk to someone if they start the conversation.
Did anyone notice how many Woodie Flowers Award Regional and Championship winners, and UFHs there are at UTC NER this week? We never got a chance to grab a picture... :(
Team905Animator
10-03-2006, 22:18
Im enjoying the convention center very much this year, so much nicer than having it at the Meadows. I got to see some good matches this year (when I get to leave the pit...). Everyone get some rest so we can have a good morning tommorow!
Gluedtothefloor
10-03-2006, 23:47
I think I know why I didn't meet people, because it is EXTREMELY difficult to talk to people I do not know. So, if anyone would like to say hi to me or something, it would be cool, as it's a little easier for me to talk to someone if they start the conversation.
Come over to 1784's pit tommarow. You wont have any problenms
Did anyone notice how many Woodie Flowers Award Regional and Championship winners, and UFHs there are at UTC NER this week? We never got a chance to grab a picture... :(
And Volunteers of the Year!
Congrats to Kathie and to UTC NER for picking her for this award!
Bharat Nain
11-03-2006, 09:24
The webcast keeps cutting in and out. Is this hapenning to anyone else or is this just me?
The webcast keeps cutting in and out. Is this hapenning to anyone else or is this just me?
Same exact thing happening to me too.
Hopefully this ends by the time the matches start.
Bharat Nain
11-03-2006, 09:29
Same exact thing happening to me too.
Hopefully this ends by the time the matches start.
I guess the webcast can't handle Dean Kamen :ahh:
Is it just me, or did the webcast just go down?
Corey Balint
11-03-2006, 11:23
Is it just me, or did the webcast just go down?
Yeah, it has been on and off all day, just so happens the time we really want it to be up...it goes down.
Yeah, it has been on and off all day, just so happens the time we really want it to be up...it goes down.
Any chance that FIRST will post the elimination alliances on the regional info site?
Corey Balint
11-03-2006, 11:29
You really only see it when they post the results of the matches. They never post the actual alliances.
You really only see it when they post the results of the matches. They never post the actual alliances.
Will they post the match list of the quarter finals after the alliance pickings?
Corey Balint
11-03-2006, 11:40
Will they post the match list of the quarter finals after the alliance pickings?
That i'm not sure about, sometimes they do, sometimes they dont. Its all dependent upon the regional, and if they are putting things up in a timely fashion.
That i'm not sure about, sometimes they do, sometimes they dont. Its all dependent upon the regional, and if they are putting things up in a timely fashion.
The match results have been put up a couple of minutes after the match, and the standings have been updated...so hopefully they get the list up :p.
The feed is back up
The feed is back down again.....any chance that it'll be back up before the elim's start at 13:00?
Corey Balint
11-03-2006, 15:55
Congrats to 177, 176, and 1124 on a fantastic win today.
Congrats to 177, 176, and 1124 on a fantastic win today.
Like Corey said, congrats to 177, 176, and 1124........amazingly played elemination rounds!!!!
Alex Pelan
11-03-2006, 18:18
Congrats to 177, 176, and 1124 on a fantastic win today.
Thanks. Not exactly 14-0, but not bad either :D. What an amazing day, congrats and thanks to everyone who helped made this possible and competed with us, we had a lot of fun.
Kim Masi
11-03-2006, 18:31
to second Alex, i want to thank everyone who helped us get so far. thanks to 176 and 1124 who did an awesome job!
Go UTC teams!
ScoutingNerd175
11-03-2006, 18:47
Go UTC teams!
I'd like to second that and congratulate team 177, team 176 (our sister team, go Hamilton SundStrand), and team 1124 on their win.
Also team 236 on Chairmans award and team 178 on Engineering Inspiration :) :) :)
tbush503
11-03-2006, 18:48
Good job teams 176, 177, and 1024, hope to see you at Nationals.
MattD1Drift
11-03-2006, 19:24
Congrats to teams 176, 177, and 1124, awesome matches today!
What was everyones favourite match? I really like that time Team 20 was on its side and scored as the third bot on the ramp for Blue, and the match where all six got onto the ramps.
devicenull
11-03-2006, 20:08
I liked the convention center a lot.. and I know we had people walking in off the streets to watch (Had someone ask me to explain the game to them).
Noticed the lights above the field were off today, was that to help with the camera? If so, thanks.. it helped.
BoyWithCape195
11-03-2006, 20:21
I have just found an instance where the live scoring / crew counters / score keepers had an incorrect score at UTC. In this round, there was an obvious 10 Pt's scored in the lower goal, and the live scoring agreed. The alliance that scored these 10 Pt's received the 10 point bonus, giving them 20 points. At the end of the match in discussion, there were 2 robots from this alliance clearly on the ramp. There were NO penalties, yet the alliance received a score of 26 points which is physically impossible (with what was scored). Also, balls where scored in the one point goals throughout the match with at least one shot in the center goal, yet in the end the alliance received a score of 26 instead of what they actually got.
I looked it over again and it seems as if the other alliance was given the score that rightfully belonged to the alliance in question...
Did anyone get video of the QF's at UTC?
Steve Howland
11-03-2006, 20:24
Congrats to teams 176, 177, and 1124, awesome matches today!
What was everyones favourite match? I really like that time Team 20 was on its side and scored as the third bot on the ramp for Blue
Considering we got knocked out on that match, I didn't really care for it ;)
Great job 177, 176, and 1124! You were an amazing alliance and you worked extremely well together - congratulations on a fantastic win. Thanks to 126 and 20 for picking us - we were thrilled to be with you and look forward to working with you in future competitions.
Thanks to everyone who made the regional possible - I know my team had a blast and I'm pretty sure most other teams did too.
MattD1Drift
11-03-2006, 20:29
Yeah, I had to feel for your alliance, you guys got 'pwnt' there, but it was an exellent peice of, I guess you could call it 'strategy' by blue.
That was my first regional, and I must say, I had a load of fun!
hrbrendan
11-03-2006, 20:45
After seeing this regional, I think that the higher-ups at FIRST over estimated how much banging around the bumpers would compensate for when making and enforcing the rules. After that last match we spent about half an hour banging on our robot trying to return it to something close to its original shape, and we're a team with 15 years of FIRST experience and a very solid chassis. There are rookie teams that given that 2 on 1 type of abuse would have been left as a pile of bolts on the field, and that really isn't what the game is about.
On a side note I don't think playing "Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Hey, Hey, Hey...Goodbye" with a large portion of the audience singing along and waving their hands after a team is eliminated from the competition is really part of what FIRST is all about either, and that happened multiple times today.
-Brendan
Scott358
11-03-2006, 21:18
On a side note I don't think playing "Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Hey, Hey, Hey...Goodbye" with a large portion of the audience singing along and waving their hands after a team is eliminated from the competition is really part of what FIRST is all about either, and that happened multiple times today.
-Brendan
While "Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Na-Na-Nahh-Na, Hey, Hey, Hey...Goodbye" was not played when we lost in the final match, I definately felt for teams who had just been elimated when it was played. It is not a "gracious" choice of songs at that particular moment. I'm not sure who chooses the music, but this should definately not happen.
On a more postitive note, we had a great time in our first visit to UTC. Very nice venue and very good teams.
Congrats to 177, 176, & 1124, and especially the Ticks for Chairmans!!!
Thanks to 181 for picking us!!!
We hope to see many of you in Atlanta.
pwilczynski
11-03-2006, 21:25
Congrats to the Ticks for Chairmans!!!
Thanks a lot Scott. I have to say that enjoyed UTC as well. I think one of the funnier parts was the mascot dance.
Kudos to the winning allience of Ace's High, Bobcats, and the Uberbots. You guys had some pretty amazing chemistry working.
MattD1Drift
11-03-2006, 22:33
The 230 alliance was with the Ticks I belive, that was an awesome dance!
devicenull
11-03-2006, 23:26
I have just found an instance where the live scoring / crew counters / score keepers had an incorrect score at UTC. In this round, there was an obvious 10 Pt's scored in the lower goal, and the live scoring agreed. The alliance that scored these 10 Pt's received the 10 point bonus, giving them 20 points. At the end of the match in discussion, there were 2 robots from this alliance clearly on the ramp. There were NO penalties, yet the alliance received a score of 26 points which is physically impossible (with what was scored). Also, balls where scored in the one point goals throughout the match with at least one shot in the center goal, yet in the end the alliance received a score of 26 instead of what they actually got.
I looked it over again and it seems as if the other alliance was given the score that rightfully belonged to the alliance in question...
Did get video of the QF's at UTC?
Funny, because I just heard a very, very similar story about a match.. Nothing can be done about it now, so I'm not about to worry about it
nightrenegade00
12-03-2006, 00:52
I have noticed the same thing with the scoring in the instance stated above...I have also heard something about a scoring mix up. In the second qualifying match of the Alliance #3 vs Alliance #6 round the scores were switched...giving alliance 6 a win instead of the second loss which they recieved. I do not know whether this is tru or not. I would really like a ref who might know anything about this to please post because the scoring needs to be fixed. they have done a very poor job of the scoring (from what I have seen at UTC) and I want to make sure that it is fixed for the rest of the regionals so that this doesnt happen to anyone else...please if anyone has anything on this say something!!
BoyWithCape195
12-03-2006, 03:02
I have noticed the same thing with the scoring in the instance stated above...I have also heard something about a scoring mix up. In the second qualifying match of the Alliance #3 vs Alliance #6 round the scores were switched...giving alliance 6 a win instead of the second loss which they recieved. I do not know whether this is tru or not. I would really like a ref who might know anything about this to please post because the scoring needs to be fixed. they have done a very poor job of the scoring (from what I have seen at UTC) and I want to make sure that it is fixed for the rest of the regionals so that this doesnt happen to anyone else...please if anyone has anything on this say something!!
I was talking about QF match 4-2.
181, 358, and 558 vs 195, 236, and 230
181's alliance was given the 35 and 195's alliance was given the 26.
Melissa Nute
12-03-2006, 08:10
I have noticed the same thing with the scoring in the instance stated above...I have also heard something about a scoring mix up. In the second qualifying match of the Alliance #3 vs Alliance #6 round the scores were switched...giving alliance 6 a win instead of the second loss which they recieved. I do not know whether this is tru or not. I would really like a ref who might know anything about this to please post because the scoring needs to be fixed. they have done a very poor job of the scoring (from what I have seen at UTC) and I want to make sure that it is fixed for the rest of the regionals so that this doesnt happen to anyone else...please if anyone has anything on this say something!!
UTC Scorekeeper here, the scores that were entered were verified by the refs and myself. In fact, during the finals, the real timer scorers and the automatic sensors were dead on a majority of the time. There wasn't a finals match that people were given the wrong points and having the wrong alliance lose.
BoyWithCape195
12-03-2006, 09:10
That confuses me then, because in QF 4.2, it was not possible to get a 26 with what our alliance had done. Win autonomous with 10 balls entered in the corner goal, and two robots on the ramp. That would give our alliance a minimum of 30 points, and more points where scored during the match in the corner and center goal. I don't know exactly what happened, but something did.
pwilczynski
12-03-2006, 09:38
During the finals, it seemed to me that there were a large number of scores that made no sense. In general, the teams who won were the teams who should have won, but the scores seemed very off from what they should have been. I think that the live scoring needs to be fixed, because as a driver, I know that I use it to try and tell who is winning to plan what I should do.
nightrenegade00
12-03-2006, 11:47
I agree...I know there is nothing that anyone can do about it now but I would like to see the confusion cleared up so that people arent looking at the scores saying "how is that possible"
jjdebner
12-03-2006, 12:36
I was talking about QF match 4-2.
181, 358, and 558 vs 195, 236, and 230
181's alliance was given the 35 and 195's alliance was given the 26.
In QF match 4-2 there was a penalty that was not recorded on the screen when the score was shown
The score was:
181's 35 and 195's 36 with a 10 point penalty making it 26
The penalty was on 236 for "excessive ramming in user control mode"
in the match before
236 got an almost identical pentaly they got 5 point penalty for ramming in auto mode.
The first penalty showed on the score board, but the second one didn't. 195 alliance would have won both matches had there been no penalties. Guess we need to be a little more gentle
btw: 195 presentation of UTC regional http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdebner/sets/72057594080430030/
Peter Matteson
12-03-2006, 12:40
UTC Scorekeeper here, the scores that were entered were verified by the refs and myself. In fact, during the finals, the real timer scorers and the automatic sensors were dead on a majority of the time. There wasn't a finals match that people were given the wrong points and having the wrong alliance lose.
I thought that it the scoring was done quite well in the finals. I saw the volunteers manually counting to verify during all rounds and when we questioned the score on the first match against the 126-20-571 we were given a very clear explanation that satified our question.
On another note how come no one has pointed out his yet here?
The UTC Regional was won by an ALL UTC Team Alliance.
177 The Bobcats - UTC Power - Alliance Captain
176 Aces High - Hamilton Sunstrand - 1st pick
1124 The Uberbots - UTC Fire and Security - 2nd pick
BoyWithCape195
12-03-2006, 16:44
In QF match 4-2 there was a penalty that was not recorded on the screen when the score was shown
The score was:
181's 35 and 195's 36 with a 10 point penalty making it 26
The penalty was on 236 for "excessive ramming in user control mode"
in the match before
236 got an almost identical pentaly they got 5 point penalty for ramming in auto mode.
The first penalty showed on the score board, but the second one didn't. 195 alliance would have won both matches had there been no penalties. Guess we need to be a little more gentle
btw: 195 presentation of UTC regional http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdebner/sets/72057594080430030/
I find it interesting that during all the qualification rounds, 236 played the same way as they did in the elimination rounds but in the elimination rounds they got called for it. For example, their auto mode that was used against us in the qualification matches; they were not penalized. If a team is not called on something during the entire event, how are they supposed to know that a penalty would be a result of it come time for eliminations?
btw: 195 presentation of UTC regional http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdebner/sets/72057594080430030/
I like all the pictures Josh, but did you take enough?
Definitely want to post that the venue was excellent, there was a lot of space in the pits, and even though the stands were a little on the small side, they definitely were filled the whole time. Even though they do need another starbucks...definitely need my coffee at 8am to function correctly
Thanks as well to 176 and 1124 for being great alliance partners. go UTC
Mark McLeod
12-03-2006, 19:28
Congratulations to teams 177, 176, and 1124. You guys were great and show what’s really possible to accomplish in only 6 weeks. You demonstrated a perfect mix of offense and defense doing both very well and adapting to changing circumstances like an alliance really should. When you were on offense you scored your points against the best we could throw against you and on defense you kept us from scoring our points.
I know 177 will play again at Philly and I’m hopeful we’ll see you guys in Atlanta (sadly we were shutout of Philly this year), and we get to see 176 and the dancing deck of cards again in two weeks at the Long Island Regional where we saw them last year. I hope 1124 is able to go to the Championships this year, or that we see you at one of the many off-season events.
My thanks to Teams 181 and 558. You guys made up a terrific medal quality alliance. My hats off to all three drive teams, you really made things happen out there on the field. Good luck in Philly 181 and I wish both you and 558 were going to Atlanta this year.
The UTC New England Regional committee did a lot of work and it showed in the quality of this event. It was a great experience. Lovely venue. Lots of space, everything in one place, 10x10 pits with wide aisles (to my eyes, we usually play under more cramped conditions), lots of practice space, plenty of tables for eating, compiling scouting reports, programming as well as lots and lots of spare space for team meetings and all the other events such as FVC, FLL, the robot art show. The MC, Blair, was awesome we’ve experienced him at several other events we’ve attended in the past.
There were many things I just did not have the time to take full advantage of, such as the Vex tournament and the FLL demonstration, but I saw a little bit and sat with some of the Vex teams strategizing during lunch and could experience the spill over excitement.
People working the concession stand were wonderful. They were very nice and always helpful. In fact all the people we met at the regional were extremely nice to us. Connecticut is a wonderful place. I was probably the grumpiest person there, due to diet constraints I subsisted on granola bars or lettuce salad for breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. Not enough coffee in my system either. I got a little snappish when people stood between the camera and the practice field target light.
Mike Betts of 177 asked me as we were leaving "Did you have fun?"
I have to respond with a resounding YES!!
nightrenegade00
12-03-2006, 22:02
In QF match 4-2 there was a penalty that was not recorded on the screen when the score was shown
The score was:
181's 35 and 195's 36 with a 10 point penalty making it 26
The penalty was on 236 for "excessive ramming in user control mode"
in the match before
236 got an almost identical pentaly they got 5 point penalty for ramming in auto mode.
The first penalty showed on the score board, but the second one didn't. 195 alliance would have won both matches had there been no penalties. Guess we need to be a little more gentle
btw: 195 presentation of UTC regional http://www.flickr.com/photos/jdebner/sets/72057594080430030/
I still dont know...they had not announced a penalty at all though as they did in qualifying match 4-1...im still a little confused...and the point about the penalty getting called during qualifications is definately tru...we had discussed the issue at our stradegy session before the eliminations...there was no worry about such ramming calls because they werent called in qualifications. if they had been called during qualifications then we wouldnt have used it in our stradegy. from what i get out of the whole situation with scoring and penalties is that it was disorganized. if you arent going to call a penalty, dont call it. if ur gonna call a penalty, call it all the time. the scoring wasnt working properly all weekend...to fix this there should have been people specifically watching the goals...and only watching the goals...3 people per side...they would then add everything together per side...then bring it to the refs and add in any necessary deductions for penalties. from what i saw as human player...the ref would count...but the ref is also watching the game for penalties. im sry if anything offends anyone i just need to vent a little bit because speculations and confusion should be cleared up
Pat Fairbank
12-03-2006, 22:18
the scoring wasnt working properly all weekend...to fix this there should have been people specifically watching the goals...and only watching the goals...3 people per side...they would then add everything together per side...then bring it to the refs and add in any necessary deductions for penalties. from what i saw as human player...the ref would count...but the ref is also watching the game for penalties. im sry if anything offends anyone i just need to vent a little bit because speculations and confusion should be cleared upI can clear up some of the speculations and confusion right now, speaking as a volunteer who was involved in the goings-on at the scoring table.
True, the counting system from National Instruments was not working properly all the time. That's why the data it generated was used only for the real-time display. There were three people per side (from the field-reset crew, not the refs) watching the goals and armed with mechanical clicker-counters. They reported to the referees at the end of the match, and the head referee wrote down the scores, added information about penalties and DQs, and handed the sheet to the scorekeeper, who then entered the data into the system.
Congrat's to all of the teams that competed in this regional particularly team's 176 177 1124. The match between you and gale forces team was the best one of the tournament. WHAT A MATCH!!
wel wthere or not there were problems with scoring the match between 176 177 1124 and 126 20 571 was by far the best match in the regional congrats to 176 177 1124
I was a little curious about one of the final scores that my team recieved in the final seeding round on Friday -- my team alone got 8 balls in the lower goal in autonomous and then won autonomous, and later in the offensive period deposited an additional 9 balls into the lower goal (dont remember what the rest of my alliance did). My bot got to the top of the ramp (only one), and we incurred an offsides 5-point penalty. Final score for our team was 9. Seems to me we shoulda had 8+10+9 = 27 at the minimum (I watched a video replay to confirm this)
but eh, its ok we had fun anyway, almost as fun as if someone picked us (team 1493) for the elimination match (we were reserves)
nightrenegade00
13-03-2006, 16:24
I can clear up some of the speculations and confusion right now, speaking as a volunteer who was involved in the goings-on at the scoring table.
True, the counting system from National Instruments was not working properly all the time. That's why the data it generated was used only for the real-time display. There were three people per side (from the field-reset crew, not the refs) watching the goals and armed with mechanical clicker-counters. They reported to the referees at the end of the match, and the head referee wrote down the scores, added information about penalties and DQs, and handed the sheet to the scorekeeper, who then entered the data into the system.
Thanks...i hope it will be better with less confusion about scoring in future regionals and at championships
peaseonearth
13-03-2006, 17:42
wel wthere or not there were problems with scoring the match between 176 177 1124 and 126 20 571 was by far the best match in the regional congrats to 176 177 1124
Thanks! They were amazing matches. In my mind both alliances deserved to win. Hope all the teams do just as well at Atlanta!
Dan9874123
14-03-2006, 13:49
I find it interesting that during all the qualification rounds, 236 played the same way as they did in the elimination rounds but in the elimination rounds they got called for it. For example, their auto mode that was used against us in the qualification matches; they were not penalized. If a team is not called on something during the entire event, how are they supposed to know that a penalty would be a result of it come time for eliminations?
Thats entirely true, I dont know how the judges could have called a 10 point penalty, we didn't back up and ram anyone, we were pushing people around, which is entirely legal.
Matt Starkey
15-03-2006, 12:17
Yes, it too bad that the Ticks got called on penalties in the finals for play that we felt was consistent with the way we played matches in the qualifying rounds. What we all have to remember is that these penalty calls are up to the discretion of the referees and we all have to respect their calls. Both matches were tough and both aliances played well. I hope our aliance partners understand and don't feel like we let them down. Sometimes the calls just don't go your way!
Nice job to both aliances in those two exciting QF matches!
Matt
nobrakes8
15-03-2006, 19:15
I was a little curious about one of the final scores that my team recieved in the final seeding round on Friday -- my team alone got 8 balls in the lower goal in autonomous and then won autonomous, and later in the offensive period deposited an additional 9 balls into the lower goal (dont remember what the rest of my alliance did). My bot got to the top of the ramp (only one), and we incurred an offsides 5-point penalty. Final score for our team was 9. Seems to me we shoulda had 8+10+9 = 27 at the minimum (I watched a video replay to confirm this)
but eh, its ok we had fun anyway, almost as fun as if someone picked us (team 1493) for the elimination match (we were reserves)
I was one of the score keepers at the goals.. it seems odd about that score being so far off, however, I did see a few teams scoreing when their light was inactive, and they clearly didn't know because they emptied their whole hopper into the goal ( i believe two teams did this, I'm not sure exactly which).. The problem I had with counting is that sometimes teams would come in with like 12 or 13 balls and the other alliance would just start grabbing balls and throwing right away, so if like 7 or 8 balls were dummped within 2 seconds of eachother we had to use our best judgement..
I can speak specifically about your team and say confidently that I counted every one of your balls when your machine was at my goal.. Your machine only spit out 2-3-4 at a time, so if somebody did screw up I'm sorry to hear that
During auto mode it wasn't so much the case because after working with the robots all day thursday and friday we pretty much knew that team XXX uses 5 balls, team XXXX uses 7, etc.. so we knew what to expect from most of the teams.
Another issue I saw is that some of the rookies and 2nd year teams (I was really impressed with the rookies this year) were throwing balls in their goals when their light was inactive, so at nationals or future compeitions make sure your drive team understands when to try and score.. Also I think 237 or 126 was throwing balls at their back bot to suck up, and I found it kind of humorous that in one match they probably threw 4 or 5 balls into my goal unintentionally.
We did the best job we could out there, and unfortunatly we have human limits.. The refs don't catch every penalty, inspectors don't catch every issue, and this year the score keepers won't catch every single ball.. It sucks, but I'm affilated with team 1071 and they lost two matches by 1pt so I understand the point of view from the teams and hopefully if anything the teams understand and respect that there will be human error for this year's game.
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