2007 Indiana Robotics Invitational

[Chris Fultz]

Dates are set for the 2007 Indiana Robotics Invitational

DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE *

NEW: July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday)
NOT: July 27 and 28 (Friday and Saturday)

Lawrence North High School (same location)

More info later, but mark your calendar!

* See later post

[IndySam]

Cool that's after the WSOP this year. I will be there.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

I might actually be able to make it this year, yeah!!!!

[Billfred]

I hope to make the drive this year--have to figure out a few things beforehand--but I can't wait to see what talent IRI draws this year.

[Beth Sweet]

I hope to make the drive this year--have to figure out a few things beforehand--but I can't wait to see what talent IRI draws this year.

As long as by "talent" you don't mean that we have to listen to Karthik and Derek sing again, I'm thinkin' I'll be there!

[Elgin Clock]

Schweet!!!

<goes to write dates on calendar>

[Jaine Perotti]

I might be able to go, depending on what summer sessions I might choose to do at UMiami, how much money I have, and transportation. I missed it last year... it would be so much fun to go again this year! :)

[BandChick]

YES! I'm so excited this doesn't fall when I have other July plans! Somehow, IRI always manages to be the same weekend as some other big event I have to go to. So hopefully, I will be able to make it!

[Jay Trzaskos]

Awesome, hopefully I can make the trip for a second year in a row, I'll just wait until after Champs to bring it up with my parents...

[Koko Ed]

Dates are set for the 2007 Indiana Robotics Invitational

July 27 and 28 (Friday and Saturday)

Lawrence North High School (same location)

More info later, but mark your calendar!

y'all killin' me.
I can't go on my anniversary weekend.:(

[Stu Bloom]

y'all killin' me.
I can't go on my anniversary weekend.:(We'll miss you Koko ...

But I certainly understand ... My anniversary is right in the middle of competition season :ahh: (March 22) :eek: ...

[efoote868]

wow... IRI is set even before we know the game...
can't wait to be there though!

[Richard Wallace]

If you're even halfway considering going to IRI, here is my advice: do it. You won't be sorry. I am still kicking myself for not going until 2006.

To repeat myself, I should have gone to IRI years ago (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showpost.php?p=518498&postcount=29).

[Chris Fultz]

y'all killin' me.
I can't go on my anniversary weekend.:(

Ed, you gotta get your priorities straight! :)

[Koko Ed]

Ed, you gotta get your priorities straight! :)

Don't tell me! Tell my FIRST hating wife!:rolleyes:

[Greg Marra]

I'll have to see where my summer plans take me, but last year was a total blast. If possible, I will be there!

[Kevin Kolodziej]

Whew! Finally some luck with event dates this year...2007 IRI thankfully does not fall on the weekend of two weddings as I expected it to.

See you there, with fully functional arm this year!

[Rich Kressly]

Will "The Fish" return?

[BandChick]

Hey Ed, you should have scheduled your wedding around robotics.
That's what my advisor did. He made his wife wait until AFTER Atlanta to get married. And then we trashed his house :D

[Dan Zollman]

Will "The Fish" return?

There will be enough fish in the field as it is...

[Richard Wallace]

There will be enough fish in the field as it is...I spoke with a mentor from 1094, who told me that they would like very much to return to IRI.

I'd rather see half an hour of Fish Boy dancing than listen to 10 seconds of Karthik singing.:)

[Josh Goodman]

There have been talks and rumors about 1511 showing up.....eh what do you know? Hope I can come anyways, I love the Indy area!

[Emma O]

Sweet, I'll definitely be there.

[cgredalertcc]

We love IRI wouldn't miss it for the world. A big thanks to the organizers from our team.

[Kim Masi]

IRI was one of the most incredible times of my life...wait. all FIRST events are the most incredible times of my life.

Maybe I'll convince 177 to bring the bot out this year.

I hope Kyle can organize another game with the pool tubes ;)

[Lil' Lavery]

I hope Kyle can organize another game with the pool tubes ;)

Dodge....tube? :rolleyes:

[cgredalertcc]

IRI was one of the most incredible times of my life...wait. all FIRST events are the most incredible times of my life.

Maybe I'll convince 177 to bring the bot out this year.

I hope Kyle can organize another game with the pool tubes ;)

Lawrence North has a pool....... lol

[Chris Fultz]

THERE ARE NEW DATES FOR THE 2007 IRI

DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE *

NEW: July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday)

Lawrence North High School (same location)

The weekend of 27-29 is the Brickyard NASCAR Race and we were running into trouble getting hotel package pricing and it would be difficult to find flights at reasonable costs as we got closer to the event.

[Wetzel]

If you're even halfway considering going to IRI, here is my advice: do it. You won't be sorry. I am still kicking myself for not going until 2006.

To repeat myself, I should have gone to IRI years ago (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showpost.php?p=518498&postcount=29).

Exactly what he said. Go and enjoy.

Wetzel

[Pavan Dave]

I am considering going to IRI this year and am wondering if you guys are in need of volunteers or anything. I have heard nothing but great stuff and I don't have school in the summer so why not?

Pavan.

[JaneYoung]

I want to come hear Karthik sing.:D

[Koko Ed]

I want to come hear Karthik sing.:D

no. you don't.

[Pat McCarthy]

no. you don't.

Agreed. In fact, pray you don't.

[Andy Baker]

I want to come hear Karthik sing.:D

Imagine the sound made by a cat in heat, getting it's tail caught under a rocking chair. That cat is more pleasant-sounding than Karthik singing.

One who has tried to pull the mic away,
AB

[JaneYoung]

This really makes me want a front row seat at the talent show guys.

EDIT: Psst Karthik, I think they must be exaggerating and I still would like to hear you sing. It really couldn't be - that - bad....

[Travis Hoffman]

I want to come hear Karthik sing.:D

Why wait when you can feel the pain now? :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=It1CI8tyCTs <-- This made my cat freak out and run away.

[Swan217]

y'all killin' me.
I can't go on my anniversary weekend.:(

Wish granted Ed. Sounds like we'll be seeing you there now?:cool:

[JaneYoung]

Why wait when you can feel the pain now? :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=It1CI8tyCTs <-- This made my cat freak out and run away.

Well, the cat's got my tongue now...:yikes:

...and I want to go to the silent auction as well...that's got to be neat.

[Travis Hoffman]

By the way, has Karthik (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2307&d=1088251993) been practicing his singing under an assumed name (http://www.americanidol.com/photos/top24/view/?set=16)?

I so called it (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showpost.php?p=273755&postcount=28).

[Al Skierkiewicz]

This really makes me want a front row seat at the talent show guys.

EDIT: Psst Karthik, I think they must be exaggerating and I still would like to hear you sing. It really couldn't be - that - bad....

Jane,
There are some things you just don't want to do...Add hear karthik sing to the old song lyrics, "don't spit into the wind and don't mess around with Jim"

[Ryan Dognaux]

Will the fish head kid return? I sure hope so.

Will Karthik's singing abilities improve? I don't think so :)

[DeAnnaC]

Team 1094 (aka the team with Fish Head Boy) have put the IRI on our schedule for this year. We had a great time last year and would love to go again. The fish head has been thoroughly cleaned and repaired and should be making appearances soon as our regional is March 1-3rd.

We've also taken a new twist on the fish head - you'll need to keep your eyes open for photographic evidence starting next weekend :) You'll know it when you see it..

DeAnna

[tbmantia]

When is registration for this? Can we get some more information? Is there a website?

[Taylor]

Usually team 234 (http://www.cyberblue234.com) has IRI info on their website - as more info comes available I'm sure they'll update. Also, IndianaFirst (http://www.indianafirst.org) usually runs something.

[David Kelly]

Usually team 234 (http://www.cyberblue234.com) has IRI info on their website - as more info comes available I'm sure they'll update. Also, IndianaFirst (http://www.indianafirst.org) usually runs something.

Registration will be on an all new website this year. It's on the way but not ready yet. (I am creating the site for my Capstone Project (http://informatics.iupui.edu/academics/graduate/project.php) in school.) :]

[team 1094]

Will "The Fish" return?

"Feed the fish" the fish will the their.

A.K.A "THE CHANNEL CATS":)

[Rich Kressly]

Well, the cat's got my tongue now...:yikes:

...and I want to go to the silent auction as well...that's got to be neat.

...and now you know why one should NEVER give Karthik the benefit of the doubt, especially when it comes to public performances. It's a common misconception that we were hiding from the whip guy here:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/photos/25288
We were really trying to construct a sound barrier and ward off the small rodents that were fleeing the building.

At the talent show judges' request, this year we will be combining the SILENT auction with the talent show to combat last year's earsplitting disaster - get your mime acts ready.

[Kati_Kat]

as long as Karthik doesn't sing again, I'm there!

[David55]

I hope to be there for the second time!
I just have to wait until my summer plans are finalized...

David

[Richard Wallace]

as long as Karthik doesn't sing again, I'm there!Let Karthik sing all he wants. If anyone doesn't like it, well, that's what ear protection is for.

Eagerly awaiting another great event: I should have gone to IRI years ago (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=518498#post518498).

[bigbeezy]

My team is thinking about going to IRI this year, so is it strictly invitation only or do u sign up (if so where), and what are the registration fees, etc. We have heard nothing but great things from people who have attended, and we would love to share in the experience.

[Schnabel]

as long as Karthik doesn't sing again, I'm there!

Please LORD DON'T LET HIM SING AGAIN!

[CurseofDragon33]

Team 48 is most likely going attend this year.

[David Brinza]

My team is thinking about going to IRI this year, so is it strictly invitation only or do u sign up (if so where), and what are the registration fees, etc. We have heard nothing but great things from people who have attended, and we would love to share in the experience.Keep your eye on CD after the Championship, IRI registration will be announced there! I suspect there are some guaranteed slots for Indiana teams, but I think IRI is basically first-come, first-served when it comes to registration. The registration last year was done through the CyberBlue234 Website (http://www.cyberblue234.com/). There is a cut-off date for payment after which teams on the waiting list get called.

[KTorak]

1023 is looking to attend an off season event this year, so we might make an appearance. Is it possible for a team to enter more than one robot? I know other off season events allow it (such as modifying an old robot or building one with an idea you never got to use during the season), but I am unfamiliar with IRI.

[Justin M.]

321 would really like to make the trip down...we'll toss it around this week.

[Lil' Lavery]

1023 is looking to attend an off season event this year, so we might make an appearance. Is it possible for a team to enter more than one robot? I know other off season events allow it (such as modifying an old robot or building one with an idea you never got to use during the season), but I am unfamiliar with IRI.

IRI has typically been pretty full, but I do remember the Thunderchickens donating their practice bot to a pre-rookie in 2005 at the event.

[Vince lau]

i want to go this year, i hope some Canadian teams go this year so I can car pool with them

[Justin M.]

Hmmm...it would be about a 10 hr drive, but pretty straight forward for us (I-76 to I-70 pretty much)....IRI is looking better and better.

[Donut]

I know we'd (or at least I'd) like to come to IRI sometime. Unfortunately I think we exhausted most of the additional club funds with our Atlanta trip this year.

Sometime in the next few years I will have to come up to see IRI, even if 498 can't come with.

[cgredalertcc]

IRI has typically been pretty full, but I do remember the Thunderchickens donating their practice bot to a pre-rookie in 2005 at the event.

That they did I am currently captain of team 1741 and you wouldn't believe how much we learned by being able to use the thunderchicken's bot. Its a great idea or any team just getting their feet wet. Its kinda nice to be able to know the basic parts ahead of time so you aren't sitting at at table covered with parts with that blank look that says you are overwhelmed and have no idea what to do next. Again, a huge thanks to the thunderchickens.

[Spammy Badame]

Maybe I'll convince 177 to bring the bot out this year.

I don't think that'll be so hard now....


I missed Atlanta, so there's no way I can miss this!!!

[Philimator]

I cannnot wait till this summer!! IRI is the highlight of my vacation. Hope to se all of you there :)

[cooker52]

I'm just itching for summer to come because of IRI. Now if I just knew what to do in between now and IRI.:D

[cgredalertcc]

Ahh the delima. The arm that we took to competition was an over engineered beast that was painfully slow. My dad and I came up with a design that would make for a better arm. The leaders of our team "generously" allowed us to strip down last year's chassis to build the design. The problem is that we have a 2006 OI & RC and we have lots of 06 parts on the robot pending we finish this design the chances of it working better than the current arm are huge and we will most definitely want to use it at IRI. Would the older parts be acceptable or not. The OI and RC are not all that hard to switch out but since we lose our NASA grant buying a new set is kindof out of our price range. I'm looking for a solution any ideas? I think I will cry if our robot has the same arm on it as at the Boilermaker and Milwaukee.

[BushTA]

Ahh the delima. The arm that we took to competition was an over engineered beast that was painfully slow. My dad and I came up with a design that would make for a better arm. The leaders of our team "generously" allowed us to strip down last year's chassis to build the design. The problem is that we have a 2006 OI & RC and we have lots of 06 parts on the robot pending we finish this design the chances of it working better than the current arm are huge and we will most definitely want to use it at IRI. Would the older parts be acceptable or not. The OI and RC are not all that hard to switch out but since we lose our NASA grant buying a new set is kindof out of our price range. I'm looking for a solution any ideas? I think I will cry if our robot has the same arm on it as at the Boilermaker and Milwaukee.

No problem as far as the RC is concerned. See Robot Rules:
<R27> Motors, pumps, and, Robot Controllers from previous robots can not be used in addition to those provided in the 2007 Kit Of Parts. They may be used as direct one-to-one SPARE PARTS for those provided if the provided part fails or is damaged. ...

[Adama]

How much is it to enter?
When must we register by?
Is there an event website?

Is it worth the ten hour drive?:yikes:

[Herodotus]

Team 910 will likely be down there and I'm really looking forward to it. I missed last year because of some unfortunate circumstances but I heard it is a lot of fun, almost as much fun as Atlanta, (or more, as I've heard from some people).

I'm sure the minute our robot is out of the box our programmers will be working on it. :p

[Lil' Lavery]

How much is it to enter?
When must we register by?
Is there an event website?

Is it worth the ten hour drive?:yikes:

No official price yet, but last year it was $350.
No official date yet, but last year it was June 1
They are currently working on a dedicated one, but it has been through either the Cyber Blue (234) or IndianaFIRST sites in past years

YES!!

[IndySam]

No official price yet, but last year it was $350.
No official date yet, but last year it was June 1
They are currently working on a dedicated one, but it has been through either the Cyber Blue (234) or IndianaFIRST sites in past years

YES!!

Official Dates are July 20th and 21st (Friday and Saturday)
Start watching the Cyber Blue website for official info.

[Travis Hoffman]

Official Dates are July 20th and 21st (Friday and Saturday)
Start watching the Cyber Blue website for official info.

www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org (http://www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org) seems to be somewhat active. It indicates a $400 entry fee.

[Chris Fultz]

Dates are July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday).

Entry fee is $400.

Dinner is provided for teams, but t here is a $1 per person reservation fee - mainly so we know how many to cook for(for an awesome dinner).

Charity Auction once again

Opportunity to donate for a very special scholarship fund - more detials to follow

And yes, it is worth the drive, no matter where you are driving from.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE - www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org

it is still in works and much of the data there is 2006 - wait a few days.

[Arefin Bari]

Sounds like a lot of fun...

... am I invited, Chris?

[Ricky Q.]

Dates are July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday).

Entry fee is $400.

Dinner is provided for teams, but t here is a $1 per person reservation fee - mainly so we know how many to cook for(for an awesome dinner).

Charity Auction once again

Opportunity to donate for a very special scholarship fund - more detials to follow

And yes, it is worth the drive, no matter where you are driving from.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE - www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org (http://www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org)

it is still in works and much of the data there is 2006 - wait a few days.

When is registration?

[Pat McCarthy]

Can teams start submitting for registration?

[Chris Fultz]

Registration is targeted to begin around May 1.

Usually fills in 2 - 3 days.



PS - THERE WILL BE NO TEAM ENTRY ON THURSDAY NIGHT.
we do not get the facility until late in the day Thursday and will be setting up later than usual - so we will not be able to allow teams to come in and set up pits the night before. everyone will come in on Friday morning.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

Some of the members of 648 are tossing around an idea to pay the entry fee and then bring the members down to pay their way... probably rent a van or something. We've still got a lot to prove after a lackluster performance in Atlanta... However, I doubt there will be any engineers there. But Malhon and some of the other kids know that robot inside and out and could fix anything in a matter of minutes.

I had a ton of fun the 1 and a half days I was there last year... I was pit announcer on Friday, but it rained very heavily on Friday and Friday night and we had camped out. The tents were full of water when we woke up and I didn't make it to the competition until after selections. Looking forward to making it down again.

[Cory]

Teams 254 and 968 are considering coming out to IRI.

I believe 330 is thinking about it as well.

[Rick]

121 hopes to make the drive. Bringing some tough Rhode Island offense with us!

[Travis Hoffman]

It seems demand for IRI is at an all time high. I believe there are going to be quite a few disappointed teams who don't get in. I wonder if the invite method is going to change this year? Or you could just open the tourney to 100 teams. If only we could fill up the auxiliary gym with pits.... :)

[Chris Fultz]

Or you could just open the tourney to 100 teams.

or maybe you could start an "ORI".....

[Jeremiah Johnson]

About how many teams are there slots open for?

[slickguy2007]

I know 1403 and 1626 are thinking about making the trip out to IRI.

[Tom Bottiglieri]

I don't know if 125 will be able to make it, but I plan on going out. I'm sure 121, 126, 148, 254, 1403, or 1626 would be willing to adopt me for the weekend.

Edit: John invited me to join 148. Any other takers?

[Brad Voracek]

Teams 254 and 968 are considering coming out to IRI.

I believe 330 is thinking about it as well.

West coast teams going?? Oh my. I wish we had the funds left to head out to IRI. After two regionals and Atlanta... we're broke. Time to make more money for next season for us =p. Us west coasters need to get some post competition competitions going... Did SCRFF have one last year?

If 330, 254/968 make it out there, you midwesters better watch out ;p

[Chris Fultz]

I will try to answer many questions here:

Application process will open May 1 on the IRI website

66 teams

yes, arefin, you absolutely must be there -

more details later this week.


PS - if someone posts an answer to an IRI question and their name is not
Chris Fultz, Andy Baker, David Kelly or Scott Ritchie it might not be an accurate answer ....

[Sagar Vyas]

1503 will try their very best to be there this year, although we don't know how yet. I'm guessing slots will fill up real fast this year, I see teams coming from all over the midwest and even Cali.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

I think it's darn close to being official that 648 will be there... with a robot this year (and more than just 3 team members).

On a tiny side note: I've been dreaming of being an MC someday, how possible would it be for me to announce one or two matches?

[Andy Baker]

It seems demand for IRI is at an all time high. I believe there are going to be quite a few disappointed teams who don't get in. I wonder if the invite method is going to change this year?

I'm guessing slots will fill up real fast this year, I see teams coming from all over the midwest and even Cali.

I think it's darn close to being official that 648 will be there... with a robot this year (and more than just 3 team members).

The demand for spots at IRI seems to be higher than ever. Notice Chris Fultz' post above: there will be an application process this year. Bear with us as we are trying to figure out a registration process that is proper.

Due to the fact that we will only have 66 spots, there will unfortunately be teams who are planning to go who will not have a spot.

Sincerely,
Andy B.

[johnr]

are teams invited or is it open to all? if invited, based on what?

[TD78]

it's not called the indiana robotics "invitational" for nothing...i would expect there to be some sort of review process in order for teams to be let in.

[Andy Baker]

are teams invited or is it open to all? if invited, based on what?

All teams can apply. Not all teams will be invited. We only have 66 spots. It will not simply be "first come, first served". Our selection criteria is still a work in progress.

Andy B.

[KTorak]

I'm curious if there is any special preference to A) teams who places well at regionals and B) teams who only attended regional(s) and not ATL. I know my team placed very well (2 finalist trophies) but did not qualify for Championships, so we would love to go to an off season event to show our stuff. I can imagine there are a few other teams in this boat. Regardless, I'm still going to push for us to apply.

www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org (http://www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org) seems to be somewhat active. It indicates a $400 entry fee.

The website appears to be inaccessible because it asks for a password when visiting.

Also, if our team is not accepted, how do I go about volunteering. I might be able to sneak off and volunteer (and bring some help).

[Doug G]

West coast teams going?? Oh my. I wish we had the funds left to head out to IRI. After two regionals and Atlanta... we're broke. Time to make more money for next season for us =p. Us west coasters need to get some post competition competitions going... Did SCRFF have one last year?

If 330, 254/968 make it out there, you midwesters better watch out ;p

I heard Cal Games in NorCal is scheduled for Oct 20/21 - location TBA.

Team 701 is tossing around the idea for a possible IRI trip if invited. Cal Games for sure. We still have something to prove after SF's at Bayou & Finals at Davis.

[Adam Freeman]

The HOT team is planning on registering as soon as it opens.

Although, we have not had the success we intended this season (ie; regional wins), I hope the selection committee intends to looks at other on field performances.

Hopefully, this thread doesn't turn into a "look what we did" thread.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

Hm.. a review process you say? Will you be posting the criteria pre-application or will teams be reviewed "discreetly"* as they sign-up?


*Probably used the wrong word...

[Richard Wallace]

All teams can apply. Not all teams will be invited. We only have 66 spots. It will not simply be "first come, first served". Our selection criteria is still a work in progress.The FRC site lists 25 Indiana teams: 45, 71, 135, 234, 292, 393, 447, 461, 829, 868, 1000, 1018, 1024, 1327, 1501, 1529, 1555, 1646, 1720, 1741, 1747, 1760, 1766, 2171, 2197. If I left your team off the list, please accept my apology. Just working off the data FIRST provides today.

So, assuming there will be a few 2008 Indiana rookies who come to IRI to jump start their first season, there will probably be less that 40 spots available for out-of-state invitees. Whatever selection criteria the IRI leadership chooses to apply -- and I don't envy anyone the job of figuring that out -- I for one hope they don't post those criteria here.

As Chris reminded us in an earlier post, any out-of-state team that is unhappy about the limited number of spots at IRI is free to start their own off-season event.

Maybe someday we'll have an MRI (uh, wait, that doesn't sound right.)

[BandChick]

Looks like the IRI guys are going to have a tough time with registration this year. I'm glad I'm not them. As I told Andy, I'm starting to save for the trip now. I know a lot of the kids on 1089 really want to make the trip. It took 5 years, but I finally planted the seed ~__^

Hopefully you'll get to see another side of New Jersey.

[Kellen Hill]

Just curious, but do returning champions get automatic spots?

1625 is planning on being there either way

[Cartwright]

I can't wait! I've not been there since two years ago as a VEX competitor! Now as a freshman with an FRC team, it will be even better!

[Chris Fultz]

The website appears to be inaccessible because it asks for a password when visiting.

Also, if our team is not accepted, how do I go about volunteering. I might be able to sneak off and volunteer (and bring some help).


the website is locked until it is fully loaded and ready to go. we were OK until we passed out the url in atl and then people knew where it was!

volunteer signup will be on the IRI website.

regarding selection, lots of factors come into play. performance, history with the iri, area of the country representing, contributions to the program, color of jerseys :) , how often you mention the awesomeness of the planning committee in your posts (just kidding :D ).

And, we will not post the criteria...

[Aren_Hill]

i'm hoping returning champs are guaranteed a slot? but we'll be signing up quickly anyway. i can't wait

[Wetzel]

I'm not going to be able to make it this year. Study abroad in Mexico returning to the US July 22nd. I was really hoping to get a chance to pick an organizers brain for the VCU offseason I want to start.

Have fun and good luck everyone!

Wetzel

[Karthik]

Team 1114 is definitely planning on applying to come to IRI. Hopefully the singing abilities of certain mentors won't be held against us... :P

[lav]

Team 107 plans to apply for this year's IRI. We had a blast last year!
The IRI is run as well as if not better than some regionals we have attended in the past. Is there a written history of the IRI? How did it get started? Who has the answers?

[AmyPrib]

IRI was started in 2000 in the high school gym in Kokomo, Indiana by Team 45. Back then they had 20 or so team (?) in attendance. (now it's up over 60). It was in Kokomo for 2yrs and then moved down to Indy to have teams 234 and 393 join as co-hosts to organize the event. It's held in 1024's high school facilities.

Prior to this in '97-'99, Team 45 would host "TechnoKat Challenges" where local students would form teams and compete. They had a few hours to build a small robot (lego/vex size) and then compete. This sorta "grew" into the IRI.

Even prior to that in '94-'97, they hosted the "PopCan Regatta". They'd get some people together, build "boats" out of popcans and other limited materials, and have a competition in the high school pool.

All these smaller competition events progressed and built up into the IRI.

If you go to www.technokats.org and the photo gallery, check out the albums for '97-'99. There are photos of the Tkat Challenge in there. In the '94-97 albums, there are photos of the popcan regatta.
If you go to the History Project Link on our site, and click on the image for 1997, we have an old "Tkat Challenge Rules" booklet. If you click on the 1996 image, there are popcan regatta rules posted.

Andy Baker can provide you with details on any other specific questions. :)

[lav]

Thanks for the info. I'll check it out!

A WMRI during the summer would be nice in the future.

[bigbeezy]

where do teams register/apply for IRI. i looked on 234's website but i couldn't find anything.

[AmyPrib]

where do teams register/apply for IRI. i looked on 234's website but i couldn't find anything.

Please read the page or two prior to this, it explains everything.

[Chris Fultz]

A WMRI during the summer would be nice in the future.

That would be awesome -

it is obvious that there is a huge demand for summer events.

[Lil' Lavery]

116 officially plans of applying to attend IRI for our 3rd straight year. The vote was unanimous, we absolutely LOVE IRI. :)

[Chris Fultz]

116 officially plans of applying to attend IRI for our 3rd straight year. The vote was unanimous, we absolutely LOVE IRI. :)

I will alert the Krispy Kreme store.

[KTorak]

That would be awesome -

it is obvious that there is a huge demand for summer events.

Many off season events occur during the school year and its hard to justify missing school for an off season event when we have already missed several days for regular competitions.

[Kyle Love]

Many off season events occur during the school year and its hard to justify missing school for an off season event when we have already missed several days for regular competitions.

Luckily, this is not during the "traditional" school year. Remember folks, its July 20-21! I'm already excited!

[wendymom]

Is there an estimate of the registration fee? We need to start budgeting.

Thanks

[BandChick]

Is there an estimate of the registration fee? We need to start budgeting.

Thanks

Dates are July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday).
Entry fee is $400.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE - www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org

Hope this helps!

[Ryan Dognaux]

There will be a talent show again this year, so remember to start thinking about possible acts. Preferably ones that involve a fish head kid, or Karthik not singing :)

[Richard Wallace]

There will be a talent show again this year, so remember to start thinking about possible acts. Preferably ones that involve a fish head kid, or Karthik not singing :)If we're taking a talent show poll, I'd prefer to see Karthik dancing, or maybe as a mime. No mike, please.

Maybe he could dance with Fish Boy?

[Pat McCarthy]

If I even hear any rumors about another whip act, I will not be sitting in the front row again!:eek:

It was worth being right next to the subwoofer for the DS&TKB show though.:p

[mrs. p]

if the pink team gets in we might resurrect the nose pipes from 05

[Jay Trzaskos]

We'll see where my monitary funds end up this summer, but I'm hoping to make it to IRI for the second year in a row.

[David55]

And yes, it is worth the drive, no matter where you are driving from.


Even if you are driving from, let's say, Israel?!
;)

[Ben Martin]

Every year I attend, the competition gets better and better... Honestly, I love the IRI. All the extra events going on besides FRC add to the overall flavor of the competition.

It sounds like the talent show is going to be really interesting this year. ;)

[Greg Marra]

Even if you are driving from, let's say, Israel?!
;)

They're building a tunnel between Russia and Alaska....

[David55]

They're building a tunnel between Russia and Alaska....

If we leave soon we might be able to make it to the 2008 IRI :ahh:

BTW, I was totally serious. Hopefully we will have more details next week!

[Chris_Elston]

Dates are set for the 2007 Indiana Robotics Invitational

DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE - DATE CHANGE *

NEW: July 20 and 21 (Friday and Saturday)
NOT: July 27 and 28 (Friday and Saturday)

Lawrence North High School (same location)

More info later, but mark your calendar!

* See later post



PS: The date on CD Events should be changed. Keeps the "corn" fusion down here in our part of the world...


http://www.chiefdelphi.com/event/list?

[Chris Fultz]

PS: The date on CD Events should be changed. Keeps the "corn" fusion down here in our part of the world...
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/event/list?

I wasn't aware of "wheat" you were talking about, until you posted this little "kernel" of knowledge.

I "planted the seed" for change with Brandon, and he was able to "harvest" an update in the CD Event section.

[David Brinza]

I wasn't aware of "wheat" you were talking about, until you posted this little "kernel" of knowledge.

I "planted the seed" for change with Brandon, and he was able to "harvest" an update in the CD Event section.
"Hoe, hoe, hoe!"
I see we have a "rye" sense of humor. It's good to "combine" some PUN-ishment with "grains" of information. Bet I take some "flax" over this post...:p

[Chris Fultz]

"Hoe, hoe, hoe!"
I see we have a "rye" sense of humor. It's good to "combine" some PUN-ishment with "grains" of information. Bet I take some "flax" over this post...:p


I just thought the humor would cultivate some friendships, but I really didn't want to just spread manure around...

Hay, if someone doesn't like the thread they can just plow on by...

[Richard Wallace]

Like so many of FIRST's great mentors, Chris is clearly out standing in his field.

Just adding some more grist for the mill -- let's see hominy bad puns we can grind out.

[kramarczyk]

Just adding some more grist for the mill -- let's see hominy bad puns we can grind out. These puns are so bad I can barley understand what ya'll are saying; I may have to bale on this thread. At yeast tell me that I won't have to listen to this at IRI. :confused:

Mark

[Chris_Elston]

I wasn't aware of "wheat" you were talking about, until you posted this little "kernel" of knowledge.

I "planted the seed" for change with Brandon, and he was able to "harvest" an update in the CD Event section.

Thanks Chris, students always think they are right when they see it in black in white, atleast I have a root to stand on now...thanks for the Indiana humor! C-Ya at IRI.

[GaryVoshol]

These puns are so bad I can barley understand what ya'll are saying; I may have to bale on this thread. At yeast tell me that I won't have to listen to this at IRI. :confused:

Mark
Better than Karthik singing, from what I was told. Maybe this year I'll be able to judge for myself. Need refs?

[JaneYoung]

- let's see hominy bad puns we can grind out.

To make a point - I'm glad to see no one has tried to rack up too many puns in a row - that would be hogging all the fun and could spoil it.

[Andy Baker]

"corn" fusion

"wheat"... you posted this little "kernel" of knowledge. I "planted the seed"...

"Hoe, hoe, hoe!" ... have a "rye" sense of humor... "combine" some PUN-ishment with "grains" of information... I take some "flax"

... cultivate ... spread manure around... Hay... they can just plow on by...

... Chris is clearly out standing in his field... grist for the mill... let's see hominy bad puns we can grind out.

...I may have to bale on this thread. At yeast tell me...

...atleast I have a root to stand on now...

...that would be hogging all the fun...

Heavens...

We're fixin' to change some things at IRI. Ol' man Fultz is workin' up the details and rustlin' up a plan that will make Keepers a bit more important, stronger alliances across the board, and more teams corralled for the finals.

Stay tuned for the official release. Be ready to pull your twine tight and hold the can to your ear.

Andy B.

[Cynette]

Heavens...

We're fixin' to change some things at IRI. Ol' man Fultz is workin' up the details and rustlin' up a plan that will make Keepers a bit more important, stronger alliances across the board, and more teams corralled for the finals.

Stay tuned for the official release. Be ready to pull your twine tight and hold the can to your ear.

Andy B.And while I think y'all are milkin' this thread a little too much, y'all have to agri- culture in Indiana makes IRI sound like a heap o'fun!

[Travis Hoffman]

moooooooooooooo-vin' right along....*anvil drops from heavens*.....OUCH! OK, now that that's out of our system.......

Expanded finals? Keepers worth more? Hmm....

"Stronger alliances across the board" - Algorithm massaging? New drafting method? Can't wait to hear about the new tweaks.

[Rich Ross]

One of my favorite things about the IRI is that its the game that was supposed to be played.

That being said, I'd love to see a few changes, but i'd also like to know about them ASAP.

Hopefully we get these details soon.

Maybe the more teams/stronger alliances implies some sort of 4 team alliance (with switching robots or maybe maybe 4v4 on the field simultaneously).

Looking forward to IRI,
Rich

[Steve Wherry]

I cannot believe that a group of people had a discussion about Indiana's agriculture, cows, and fields without Scott Ritchie involved. He probably would have given away cows as door prizes in order to be part of that conversation.

[John Wanninger]

Heavens...

We're fixin' to change some things at IRI. Ol' man Fultz is workin' up the details and rustlin' up a plan that will make Keepers a bit more important, stronger alliances across the board, and more teams corralled for the finals.

Stay tuned for the official release. Be ready to pull your twine tight and hold the can to your ear.

Andy B.No a fence, but could you shed some light on how you’ll implement these harrowing changes that’ve cropped up? From what I glean, it could be a field day for the more manure vable robots. .... :o

[Andy Baker]

One of my favorite things about the IRI is that its the game that was supposed to be played.

That being said, I'd love to see a few changes, but i'd also like to know about them ASAP. Hopefully we get these details soon.

Maybe the more teams/stronger alliances implies some sort of 4 team alliance (with switching robots or maybe maybe 4v4 on the field simultaneously).
Looking forward to IRI,
Rich

Rich... you are close, but a bit off...

No a fence, but could you shed some light on how you’ll implement these harrowing changes that’ve cropped up? From what I glean, it could be a field day for the more manure vable robots. .... :o

Without further adieu... See this link for the 2007 IRI pdf, posted by Chris Fultz (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/papers/1991).

The key highlights are these*:

1. Scored Keepers will be worth a 15 bonus points.

2. A more random match generation algorithm is being requested and developed. All teams will be considered equal in ability, and the only limit to pure randomness will be a 2-3 match buffer between a team's matches.

3. For the elimination rounds, alliance picking will be 1-8, 1-8. Serpentine draft is eliminated. While this may be good for some events, it's not at IRI.

4. Alliances will pick their own backup robot. There will be a 3rd round of alliance selection, 1-8. Each elimination alliance will consist of four robots, not three. Three robots will play on the field (just like normal) and one robot will sit for each match. Which robot sits can change from match to match. This gets more teams active in the finals, brings another dimension to strategy, makes everyone's pick list 8 teams longer, and gives each alliance captain the ability to choose the correct backup robot for their alliance. There will be a fair declaration process in claiming who will play in each of the finals matches. (we will probably alternate who has to declare first) Essentially, alliances are 4 teams deep, and the alliance captain chooses their best 3 to play in each match.

Combine 3 and 4, and you see there will be 3 rounds of picking, with 32 teams active in the finals. The matches on the field will play the same, and the winning alliance will have 4 teams.

There you have it.

Andy B.

* - how these things exactly happen depend on how the scoring system is tweaked. We have time to make these changes and try it out, we believe.

[Aren_Hill]

at first i saw the 4 bot alliance thing and though 4 BOTS EACH TEAM 4VS4 :eek: ALL ON THE FIELD:eek: end game would be ridiculous. plus the field would be a little crowde, then i read on

[Andy Baker]

i saw the 4 bot alliance thing and though 4 BOTS EACH TEAM 4VS4 :eek: ALL ON THE FIELD:eek: end game would be ridiculous. plus the field would be a little crowded


That is not the case, please re-read my last post. Only 3 robots will be on the field for each alliance.

Andy B.

[Rich Ross]

This is likely the most important question i can ask:

Can we see the T-shirt design?

and

What color are said T shirts?

[Chris Fultz]

This is likely the most important question i can ask:

Can we see the T-shirt design?

and

What color are said T shirts?

t-shirts are always unveiled at the event. they are promised to be sweet and a significant change from the last two years.

color - not sure, but not periblue (2006 color that i have been abused over...)

[Mike Ross]

Wow, lots of positive changes here. Thank you IRI!

IMHO, the match algorithm and serpentine draft should have been done away with from the start of the season. And I love the keeper bonus, as auton this year was a bit lacking (especially compared to last year).

The added pick/backup team is a very interesting idea and I think will add a good deal more strategy to the elims, as well as keeping more teams involved. Alliances will find themselves asking, "Should we go with 3 scorers to fight the defense/ramp oriented alliance, or should we sub in our D-bot to shut down their great scorer?" This probably wouldn't work out well in at a number of smaller competitions, but with IRI's stacked field, we're sure to see some amazing play!

Andy didn't mention it, but THANK YOU for the "tube supporting the lifted robot" clarification. I never thought FIRST's ruling was quite right.

Argggg! I can't believe IRI is almost three months away. I'm excited now!
:cool: :D

[Dave Flowerday]

4. Alliances will pick their own backup robot. There will be a 3rd round of alliance selection, 1-8. Each elimination alliance will consist of four robots, not three. Three robots will play on the field (just like normal) and one robot will sit for each match. Which robot sits can change from match to match.
Am I correct in my understanding of the rules posted that there are no limitations on which robots can play in any particular elimination match (unlike it used to be in FIRST when it was 2-on-2 with 3 team alliances, and each of the 3 were required to play at least once per elim round)?

[Duke_of_Hazard]

1. Scored Keepers will be worth a 15 bonus points.

2. A more random match generation algorithm is being requested and developed. All teams will be considered equal in ability, and the only limit to pure randomness will be a 2-3 match buffer between a team's matches.

3. For the elimination rounds, alliance picking will be 1-8, 1-8. Serpentine draft is eliminated. While this may be good for some events, it's not at IRI.

4. Alliances will pick their own backup robot. There will be a 3rd round of alliance selection, 1-8. Each elimination alliance will consist of four robots, not three. Three robots will play on the field (just like normal) and one robot will sit for each match. Which robot sits can change from match to match. This gets more teams active in the finals, brings another dimension to strategy, makes everyone's pick list 8 teams longer, and gives each alliance captain the ability to choose the correct backup robot for their alliance. There will be a fair declaration process in claiming who will play in each of the finals matches. (we will probably alternate who has to declare first) Essentially, alliances are 4 teams deep, and the alliance captain chooses their best 3 to play in each match.


*Hugs his monitor, then stands up and begins clapping at his computer*

[Chris]

Those rule changes are all awesome,

Congrats to the IRI committee...

If we make it in i hope our programmers are willing to put some time in.

This should be an amazing event to watch, and hopefully participate in.

[Sean Schuff]

Pre-Rookie Exhibition Challenge Matches?? What a farm-tastic way to cultivate the seeds planted in new forming teams. If we're selected to attend IRI you can definitely count on us to provide our robot!

Sounds like another great IRI event!

Sean

[Grant Cox]

Wow... this is going to be awesome. This'll be my first IRI event, and reading the pdf definitely got me excited! This event will truly be how Rack N' Roll was designed to be played (or should have been)

I love how the rules have been modified to a way that all but eliminates all the gray areas and touchy subjects (such as removing a ringer under a robot on the ramp, descoring). The keeper bonus should definitely have been in the original rules, and words can't express how glad I am that the algorithm is gone :D

I also love how the awards on the pdf almost mocked some of the ways that organized events (not just FIRST) try to quantify their judging processes. "Definition and criteria for the word 'awesome' will be at the judges' discretion"



I lived in Illinois for two years.. should be able to come up with some corn references....... yeah I got nothin.

[Pat McCarthy]

Question about the scored Keepers:
Is that 15 points for each keeper scored in autonomous?
As in, if the Blue Alliance scored two keepers would Blue get 15 + 15 + however much the two keepers would score normally?

[Andy Baker]

Am I correct in my understanding of the rules posted that there are no limitations on which robots can play in any particular elimination match (unlike it used to be in FIRST when it was 2-on-2 with 3 team alliances, and each of the 3 were required to play at least once per elim round)?

We are deliberating that issue. It has not been finalized yet, and I may have spoken too freely about this in my previous post. The debating parties may have to play "rock, paper, scizzors" to make this decision.

Question about the scored Keepers:
Is that 15 points for each keeper scored in autonomous?
As in, if the Blue Alliance scored two keepers would Blue get 15 + 15 + however much the two keepers would score normally?

You are correct, Pat.

If the Blue Alliance can score two keepers during autonomous, they would indeed have a 30 point bonus in addition to the value of what the keepers score normally.

------

All: thanks for the positive feedback thus far. We really are looking forward to a great event.

Andy B.

[Barry Bonzack]

I am very pleased with the ruling on the removing the tubes before measurement is taken. I think the backup robot is also a good idea. I am one that enjoys the serpentine, especially if the top 8 are allowed to pick any of the other top 8, however, its good to see some variation from normal play. On picking the 4th robot, am I correct in interpreting that using the 4th is optional but never mandatory?

[Lil' Lavery]

I am very pleased with the ruling on the removing the tubes before measurement is taken. I think the backup robot is also a good idea. I am one that enjoys the serpentine, especially if the top 8 are allowed to pick any of the other top 8, however, its good to see some variation from normal play. On picking the 4th robot, am I correct in interpreting that using the 4th is optional but never mandatory? If one or two of the four robots break down, would another robot then be allowed to be used as a backup?

Nope
6. With Alliances of 4 robots, there will be no replacement robots allowed in case of any robot on an alliance being unable to play.



I love these changes (although 15 points for a keeper may be too many....but if 116 keeps hitting them, I'm not gonna complain :rolleyes: )


Possible match algorithm:
http://www.issaquahrobotics.org/MatchMaker/index.shtml

[Chris Fultz]

We are deliberating that issue. The debating parties may have to play "rock, paper, scizzors" to make this decision. Andy B.

note to all: recall the beer commercial - the guy with the rock wins.
i have the rock ;)

To clarify some:

YES - there will be 4 robts per alliance
NO - the alliance will not get to pick another robot if one of the three goes out
TBD - if all four robots are required to play or if one can remain the back-up

[Chris Fultz]

I love these changes (although 15 points for a keeper may be too many)


Actually, since our autonomous works pretty well (thanks programming team!), i was pushing for 30 or 60, but Baker said "No Way!. We comrpimised and did it his way.;)

Actually, we felt like a keeper should be worth at least as much as a 4" lift, so we went for 15 points.

[AdamHeard]

Are there plans for a webcast?

[Josh Murphy]

This is going to be one of the best IRI's ever. This is always a fun event and I look forward to coming to indy in July, it is going to be a blast. These new "revisions" rock.:) Oh and one more question, It says a 5 lb allowance will be allowed which means you can weigh 125, 115 or 105 instead of 120, 110, and 100 right?:)

[MGoelz]

Are there plans for a webcast?

XIV. Webcast A. We are working to provide a webcast of the event. Details will be provided when available.

Hopefully there will be.:)

[Jeremiah Johnson]

Question: With the mentor match, what if your team doesn't bring multiple people over 21? I'm pretty sure that we'll have at least 2 people there over 21, if we get invited. But I was just curious if those weren't able to be in that match, what would happen?

[IndySam]

Question: With the mentor match, what if your team doesn't bring multiple people over 21? I'm pretty sure that we'll have at least 2 people there over 21, if we get invited. But I was just curious if those weren't able to be in that match, what would happen?

You can ask mentors from other teams to help you.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

You can ask mentors from other teams to help you.

Garr... I know, I just read that... I just had to scroll down another 1/2 page. I am officially an idiot. Besides, I should have known that. I had to help deal with a couple of teams last year that had that problem, as a pit announcer.

I do plan on volunteering again! Unless they ask me to be coach, which may not be a great idea, I don't fare well as a coach.

[Kit Gerhart]

Question: With the mentor match, what if your team doesn't bring multiple people over 21? I'm pretty sure that we'll have at least 2 people there over 21, if we get invited. But I was just curious if those weren't able to be in that match, what would happen?
I'll volunteer to drive your robot, unless you're playing against my team. I'm even willing to compete against other old people for the position.

[Cory]

Team 254 and 968 are both planning to apply for spots at the 2007 IRI.

We've been wanting to make a trip out to the midwest to play with all our old friends, and make some new ones for quite some time now. Hopefully we'll be able to do so this summer :)

[Chris Marra]

177 is trying very hard to make it out, but may not get final approval until its too late due to travel expenses and school board approval. It will most likely come down to how many NE teams are going to cut down on bus expenses.

[KTorak]

It doesn't look we are applying after all. It's kinda funny how everyone is pumped about the possibility of an off season event when you're competing, then everyone losses interest and disappears. :confused:

[Jeremiah Johnson]

I'll volunteer to drive your robot, unless you're playing against my team. I'm even willing to compete against other old people for the position.

I'd love to let you drive our robot, Kit. I think you're one of the coolest mentors. I'll have to see who's gonna go, if we get in that is. :cool:

[vince2171]

Rookie Team 2171 from Crown Point Indiana is applying to attend IRI. We are trying to get another school to get a team together as a rookie team. Looking forward to another competition with everyone.

[AndyB]

Wow. I was shocked when I saw the rules for alliance pickings, I love the idea and I think FIRST may implement it in the coming years as numbers continue to grow.

[Chris Fultz]

Oh and one more question, It says a 5 lb allowance will be allowed which means you can weigh 125, 115 or 105 instead of 120, 110, and 100 right?:)

The intent of the extra weight is to let teams do repairs or re-inforcements and not be worried about being a little overweight, or stressing out about the GP-ness of trying to stay under the allowable, even if there is no weigh in.

We just ask teams to be reasonable and if you need to fix something, fix it.

That said, if someone shows up with a brand new set of diamond plate ramps on a robot that only scored tubes just a few weeks ago, we might get suspicious. And there will be a scale there, just in case of flagrant violations*. :ahh:

*Getting caught "cheating" at IRI would be worse than ... being stranded at the drive in.

( I smell a new thread topic in "chit-chat") :)

[Nica F.]

So around when can we try signing up to volunteer? (I'm sorry if i looked over it) I've read through this thread and I didn't really find info on when to sign up.

I'm really psyched to come over from Los Angeles to volunteer at this event! it would be sad if you guys run out of spots on me :p

[Jeremiah Johnson]

So around when can we try signing up to volunteer? (I'm sorry if i looked over it) I've read through this thread and I didn't really find info on when to sign up.

I'm really psyched to come over from Los Angeles to volunteer at this event! it would be sad if you guys run out of spots on me :p

IRI could always use volunteers... :D I'm sure you'll get a spot. I'll second this question, as well as some 648 members, too. Maybe I'll make some of the extra people coming along volunteer as well... we'll see how that goes.

[MGoelz]

So around when can we try signing up to volunteer? (I'm sorry if i looked over it) I've read through this thread and I didn't really find info on when to sign up.

IX. Volunteers A. Volunteers make the IRI a successful event. Volunteers can register through the IRI website. 1. If you apply, assume you will be utilized as a volunteer. 2. You will be notified in early July of your role / responsibility. 3. You can indicate a preference for position when you apply. The areas where volunteers are needed are: Field Reset, Queuing, Pit Announcer, Scoring. 4. If you are interested in being a Judge or Referee, please contact the Planning Committee directly at: PC@IndianaRoboticsInvitational.org

I would think you would be able to sign up as soon as the site is up. But, I don't know for sure.

[Josh Murphy]

The intent of the extra weight is to let teams do repairs or re-inforcements and not be worried about being a little overweight, or stressing out about the GP-ness of trying to stay under the allowable, even if there is no weigh in.

We just ask teams to be reasonable and if you need to fix something, fix it.

That said, if someone shows up with a brand new set of diamond plate ramps on a robot that only scored tubes just a few weeks ago, we might get suspicious. And there will be a scale there, just in case of flagrant violations*. :ahh:

*Getting caught "cheating" at IRI would be worse than ... being stranded at the drive in.

( I smell a new thread topic in "chit-chat") :)

Thanks Chris, we do have some repair work for our machine, just clearing it before we do anything. Thanks for the explanation:)

[Taylor]

Question: With the mentor match, what if your team doesn't bring multiple people over 21? I'm pretty sure that we'll have at least 2 people there over 21, if we get invited. But I was just curious if those weren't able to be in that match, what would happen?

In years past, 1529 has had drivers from 234 and 829. Last year, a sponsor drove. I think she really got a kick out of that.

I think the Mentor Drive at IRI reminds me of halftime at NFL games where 3rd and 4th graders play football....it's the same game but it's pretty obvious the people out there just don't know what they're doing, they're just pleased as punch to be sharing the same field as the professionals.

[Steve Ketron]

I have been trying to get on the IRI website but they are asking me for an IRI username and password. How do I get a username and password for that site?

[IndySam]

I have been trying to get on the IRI website but they are asking me for an IRI username and password. How do I get a username and password for that site?

Massage Chris’s feet? :)



The web site won't be available until the 1st.

[Chris Fultz]

I have been trying to get on the IRI website but they are asking me for an IRI username and password. How do I get a username and password for that site?

you don't - it is just for the planning committee and web site team.

once the site is ready, there will be no id or password required.

[Steve Ketron]

Team 1528 and 1023 are currently looking into an offseason event in Monroe County, Michigan towards the end od August. I am actually trying to figure the number of teams intersted in attending the event. Any team that is possibly intersted in attending the event please give me a shout at ketron@monroe.k12.mi.us.

[ClareG]

Ahh. I'm so excited. This'll be my first IRI event. If I even make it down there ): But I reeaally want to go. There's gonna be some intense games with the alliances I'm hearing about from other places.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

I plan on coming with or without 648 now and volunteering either way. This is going to be one awesome event... and I'll be willing to bet it will be even better next, and the year after that... and so on.

So hey... anyone interested in doing a duet of "White and Nerdy" by Weird Al with me?

[David Guzman]

1251 will be applying as soon as registration opens. We really hope we get invited.

After our bad luck at nationals we want another chance to play with the "Big Boys":yikes:

[CWBWBN]

this will be my first IRI if i get to make it up there, but hopefully between tytus or arefin i can find a place to stay and a method of transportation

mch
<3

[cbale2000]

Did the IRI website change? It appears to require a password to get on it now for some reason.
Where does one go to sign up now? (who's the contact?)

Also, Is there any information my team should know before we sign up? (aside from what's in the first post that is)


Just trying to get all the info. :o

[IndySam]

Did the IRI website change? It appears to require a password to get on it now for some reason.
Where does one go to sign up now? (who's the contact?)

Also, Is there any information my team should know before we sign up? (aside from what's in the first post that is)


Just trying to get all the info. :o

Website is locked until tomorrow, when registration starts.

Lots of info in this thread.

I hope you guys come, I really want to see your drive.

[Kit Gerhart]

this will be my first IRI if i get to make it up there, but hopefully between tytus or arefin i can find a place to stay and a method of transportation

mch
<3Is Swamp coming to IRI to compete? That would be great.

[ClareG]

I plan on coming with or without 648 now and volunteering either way. This is going to be one awesome event... and I'll be willing to bet it will be even better next, and the year after that... and so on.

So hey... anyone interested in doing a duet of "White and Nerdy" by Weird Al with me?

Hahahah! I would LOVE to duet with you. That could quite possibly make my weekend

I'm planning on going. But I have nooo idea how. My team is still on the fence about going because we're so busy with other costly things. But either way, I'm going.
Any ideas on how xD?

[Kyle Love]

When will scholarship info be available for IRI? I know I want to apply for them! :)

[Chris Fultz]

lots of information in the IRI whitepaper

applications accepted starting tomorrow at 6 PM/

scholarships - you can start working now, the info yu need is in the whitepaper.
the online part will be available "soon".

[Scott Ritchie]

You need to hold off on your reservations to the Hilton, which used to be the Omni Hotel. I am working with a new person and they don't understand what is going on yet. We are working out a block of rooms it is just taking some more time due to the new people. Hope to have this settled soon. I got a call yesterday saying "I have a Dan Green trying to reserve a block of rooms do you know him?" I said "yea, don't you he is famous" she didn't laugh. ;)

[Jeremiah Johnson]

You need to hold off on your reservations to the Hilton, which used to be the Omni Hotel. I am working with a new person and they don't understand what is going on yet. We are working out a block of rooms it is just taking some more time due to the new people. Hope to have this settled soon. I got a call yesterday saying "I have a Dan Green trying to reserve a block of rooms do you know him?" I said "yea, don't you he is famous" she didn't laugh. ;)

Wow... who doesn't know Dan Green? Dan gets around... in a GOOD way!

I think that I'm either going to (a) stay in a cheap, cheap hotel one night or (b) camp again... however, last year my tent got flooded and I didn't make it back to Lawrence North until the beginning of eliminations. :(

[Jay Trzaskos]

if anyone might be able to find room in their hearts and their homes/hotel rooms for a kid from upper upstate new york, let me know :p

[Al Skierkiewicz]

I got a call yesterday...I said "yea, don't you he is famous" she didn't laugh. ;)

Scott, you are not supposed to say those things in public. You know how embarrassed he gets.

[Tim Arnold]

This is MARS's first time applying for IRI, and I'm just wondering if there are any tips on the essay portion of the application. How long, what should be included, etc...

[Grant Cox]

So hey... anyone interested in doing a duet of "White and Nerdy" by Weird Al with me?
Oh man.. I am so totally in on this. That song is like my personal anthem :cool:

[Ricky Q.]

This is MARS's first time applying for IRI, and I'm just wondering if there are any tips on the essay portion of the application. How long, what should be included, etc...

This is the first time there is this portion of the application, so we are all in the boat with you.

[Ryan Dognaux]

Anyone wishing to enter in the talent show, please send your entry to Talent@IndianaRoboticsInvitational.org

In the e-mail, please include the names and number of people in the act, what the act is, how long the act will be, and if you need any special equipment such as music, microphones, etc.

[nsr]

team 2090 might go to the IRI, talking it over :/

[Greg Marra]

I just need a ride home from IRI to the East Coast....

[Lil' Lavery]

I just need a ride home from IRI to the East Coast....

Eh, why would you ever want to leave? :P

[Libby K]

Hopefully I'll be able to go to my very first IRI this summer. It's just a matter of actually getting there that I have to figure out. It sounds like it's gonna be a lot of fun, and I really hope I can get there to see it play out. See y'all soon! :-)

[Grant Cox]

Anyone wishing to enter in the talent show, please send your entry to Talent@IndianaRoboticsInvitational.org

In the e-mail, please include the names and number of people in the act, what the act is, how long the act will be, and if you need any special equipment such as music, microphones, etc.

What's the deadline for that?

[Ryan Dognaux]

Send your entry to Talent@IndianaRoboticsInvitational.org no later than July 10.

Feel free to PM me with any questions or shoot an e-mail to that address.

[ClareG]

What's the deadline for that?

Anyone wishing to enter in the talent show, please send your entry to Talent@IndianaRoboticsInvitational.org

In the e-mail, please include the names and number of people in the act, what the act is, how long the act will be, and if you need any special equipment such as music, microphones, etc.


Oooh man. I wanna do this xD! Which day is the talent show happening?

I just found out that my team isn't going to IRI 'cause of the cost of the trip ): Anyone wanna drive and harbor a small girl that doesn't take up much room?

[Koko Ed]

Since I am now going to IRI I have 3 seat available for anyone in Rochester who wants to go (and you have to be in the ROchester area. I am not going out of my way to pick anyone up).

[Grant Cox]

Anyone wanna drive and harbor a small girl that doesn't take up much room?
Maybe small, but your voice makes up for it ;)

[Andy Baker]

It's time for a 2007 IRI update. The event date of July 20-21 will be here before we know it. The organizing committee met last night, and these things were decided:

1. We respectfully say THANK YOU to the 100 teams who have applied to attend this year's IRI.

2. 72 teams will be invited to compete.
....... yes, this is an increase from our previous cap of 66 teams
....... these teams will be sent an email today (Monday, 5/7), inviting them to compete
....... once invitations are sent out, the team list will be posted on this site and http://www.indianaroboticsinvitational.org
....... these 72 teams do not include the "Pre-Rookie Challenge" to take place during Saturday's lunch.

3. 28 teams are on the "wait list"
....... 8 of these teams may be bumped from the wait list to the invite list, depending if any or some of the 72 teams get their registration money in by June 1st
....... these list of these 8 top wait list teams will be posted on this site and the IRI site.
....... current invited teams who do not have their registration money in by June 1st will be listed at the bottom of the 28 team wait list
....... emails to all of these wait list teams will be sent out today (Monday, 5/7)

4. Each attending team will have 8 qualification matches.

5. There will be NO "mentor matches"
....... we chose to eliminate these matches in order to justify adding more teams (up from 66 to 72) and to give all teams 8 matches in that they can compete with their best drive teams.

6. Alliance picking and substitute management for the elimination rounds will be as such:
....... The first two rounds of alliance selection will be 1-8, 1-8
....... A 3rd round of alliance selection has been added, so alliances can choose their substitute. This selection will be 8-1.
....... 3 teams from each alliance will play in each match
....... There will be no requirement of playing all teams on the alliance. One team may not play an elimination round match, although the alliance may even win the event.

7. 2007 "Rack and Roll" rules will be tweaked a bit:
....... a 15 point bonus will be added for each scored Keeper
....... clear definitions of high speed ramming, pinning, and tipping will be communicated within a few weeks
....... tubes contacting robots in the home zone and affecting "supported" robots will be deflated or removed in order to determine if robots are truly supported

8. IRI invited team selection criteria is as follows:
....... Indiana teams who signed up on May 1st or 2nd
....... Teams who attended IRI in the past were appreciated for their loyalty (more years attended meant more favoritism... we always say that this event is great due to the teams who attend year after year)
....... current year best regional performance and Championships performance were considered
....... Regional Chairman's Award teams were given credit
....... teams who added substantial enhancement to IRI were given credit also

We appreciate all of the teams who want to attend the IRI and also the people who will travel in to Indianapolis to assist and enjoy this event. We would like to grant all teams the ability to compete at our event, but we simply could not make this event bigger than 72 teams. We tried to make our selection process as fair and quantifiable as we could.

Sincerely,
Andy Baker
on behalf of the IRI leadership committee

[Jay Trzaskos]

Andy, thanks for the update! A quick question though, how many "Pre-Rookie Challenge" teams have signed up as of yet? If you can disclose this information as of this time that is.

Jay

[Chris Fultz]

Andy, thanks for the update! A quick question though, how many "Pre-Rookie Challenge" teams have signed up as of yet? If you can disclose this information as of this time that is.

Jay

Right now we have between 6 and 8 pre-rookie teams who plan to compete.
We hope this grows before July 20.

[Kit Gerhart]

I'm devastated that there will be no mentor round. I wanted to play. OK, being more serious, I understand eliminating the mentor round for the sake of better competition, with teams using their "regular," and presumably best drivers for all matches.

I'm not too crazy about the 4-team alliances without the requirement that all teams play at least one match in each round. If I'm reading this correctly, there will be the possibility be of an official "winner" that doesn't play a single match in the elimination rounds. Am I correctly interpreting this?

Anyway, thanks for all the work putting together a great event. See you in July.

[Billfred]

I'm not too crazy about the 4-team alliances without the requirement that all teams play at least one match in each round. If I'm reading this correctly, there will be the possibility be of a "winner" that doesn't play a single match in the elimination rounds. Am I correctly interpreting this?That's the way I read it.

Mayhem played the same way last year, to good results. I don't think any smart alliance captain would keep a team shelved for the entire tournament--I think you'll see a specialist slot tend to open up, one team who excels at a certain thing (say, controlling spoilers on the rack) and gets played selectively (say, against a spoiler-happy alliance).

[Andy Baker]

....... There will be no requirement of playing all teams on the alliance. One team may not play an elimination round match, although the alliance may even win the event.

I'm not too crazy about the 4-team alliances without the requirement that all teams play at least one match in each round. If I'm reading this correctly, there will be the possibility be of an official "winner" that doesn't play a single match in the elimination rounds. Am I correctly interpreting this?

Yes. Weighing the pros and cons of each scenario, we have decided that it is better to have no requirement to play all teams on the alliance.

Andy B.

[Rob Colatutto]

I was wondering, is there any planned modification to the "random" match scheduling system? Or will it be run the same way as it was at The Championship.

[Andy Baker]

I was wondering, is there any planned modification to the "random" match scheduling system? Or will it be run the same way as it was at The Championship.


This is being worked on. I believe that FIRST is working with 4FX to accomodate the need for more randomness and other flexible features in the scoring system. These changes are targeted for not only IRI, but other events as well.

Andy B.

[Sean Schuff]

7. 2007 "Rack and Roll" rules will be tweaked a bit:
....... a 15 point bonus will be added for each scored Keeper
....... clear definitions of high speed ramming, pinning, and tipping will be communicated within a few weeks
....... tubes contacting robots in the home zone and affecting "supported" robots will be deflated or removed in order to determine if robots are truly supported


YES!! Clear rules that are equitable for all and don't unfairly penalize teams for minor misfortune. Thank you for planning to clarify what consitutes ramming, pinning and tipping.

(Keeps fingers crossed in hopes of receiving an invite!)

Sean

[Jeremiah Johnson]

Beat me while I was looking.

[Kellen Hill]

Yay!!! We just got invited and IRI here we come!!!!

Here's the invited list:

Team Team Name State
16 Bomb Squad AR
27 Team RUSH MI
33 Killer Bees MI
40 Checkmate NH
45 TechnoKats IN
47 Chief Delphi MI
48 Delphi E.L.I.T.E. OH
67 Heroes of Tomorrow MI
68 Truck Town Thunder MI
71 The B.E.A.S.T IN
93 NEW Apple Corps WI
107 Team R.O.B.O.T.I.C.S. MI
111 WildStang IL
116 Epsilon Delta VA
118 RoboNauts TX
121 The Rhode Warriors RI
126 Gael Force MA
135 Penn Robotics IN
148 Robowranglers TX
177 Bobcat Robotics CT
190 Gompei MA
217 ThunderChickens MI
229 Division by Zero NY
233 The PINK Team FL
234 CyberBlue IN
254 Cheesypoofs CA
269 CooneyTech Robotics WI
292 PantherTech IN
330 Beach Bot CA
393 Full Metal Jackets IN
447 Team Roboto IN
461 Westside Boiler Invasion IN
469 Las Guerrillas MI
494 Martians MI
503 Frog Force MI
537 Charger Robotics WI
573 Mech Warriors MI
703 Phoenix MI
829 Warren Robotics IN
830 Rat Pack MI
868 Techounds IN
888 Robotiators MD
910 Foley Freeze MI
968 RAWC CA
980 ThunderBots CA
1008 Team Lugnut OH
1018 RoboDevils IN
1024 Kil-A-Bytes IN
1038 Thunderhawks OH
1094 River City Channel Cats MO
1108 Panther Robotics KS
1114 Simbotics CAN
1251 The TechTigers FL
1327 SBotz IN
1501 Team Thrust IN
1529 CyberCards IN
1555 PULSE IN
1577 Steampunk Robotics ISR
1625 Winnovation IL
1646 Precision Guessworks IN
1720 PhyXTGears IN
1732 Hilltoppers WI
1741 Red Alert Robotics IN
1747 Harrison Boiler Robotics IN
1760 Taylor Robotics IN
1766 Temper Metal IN
1816 The Green Machine MN
1902 Exploding Bacon FL
2056 Patriotics CAN
2171 ROBODOGS IN
2194 Fondy Fire WI
2197 PC Robotics IN

[Ricky Q.]

Props to the IRI planning committee for getting through this very quickly, it really helps teams get their details set.

I cannot believe this event will have 72 teams, amazing.

[bigbeezy]

has the wait list come out yet? i looked on the website but i couldn't find either list. im probabily just blind and missed it.

[Chris Fultz]

we have started a new thread with the official team list and first 9 on the wait list.

the web site will be updated later tonight.

[Chris Fultz]

Yay!!! We just got invited and IRI here we come!!!!

Here's the invited list:

Team Team Name State
16 Bomb Squad AR
..... 2197 PC Robotics IN


We are disappointed - it was almost 2 whole minutes between David sending the Invitation letter and the team list being posted.... ;)

[Josh Murphy]

This looks like this is going to be the best IRI yet. There are so many awesome teams that were invited. This is going to be a blast!!!!! Hope to see everyone in July:)

[Sean Schuff]

Oops.

[Cowmankoza]

after reviewing the IRI team list. I'm feeling a national highscore, maybe breaking 400?

[Jeremiah Johnson]

after reviewing the IRI team list. I'm feeling a national highscore, maybe breaking 400?

No way... no way... there's going to be some very even alliances at the competition and I see no domination in any match.

[Kit Gerhart]

This looks like this is going to be the best IRI yet. There are so many awesome teams that were invited. This is going to be a blast!!!!! Hope to see everyone in July:)When you see the teams that were NOT invited, you really get a feeling for how awesome this IRI field actually is. There are teams that were division semi-finalists in the '07 Championships that didn't make the cut.

[Triple B]

nice timing on your last post Kit.
mike d

[Chris]

Anyone have any idea how the heck the Israeli team is going to get their robot to IRI??

Are they shipping to the high school ahead of time?

I believe they get the award for the most distance ever traveled to come to summer competition... Good luck.


Chris C.

[Mari]

So going to Indiana.
Me and my friend Michelle already looked up our airplane tickets and hotel.

[Pavan Dave]

That list of teams scares me. I thought Curie was tough, but with a new algororithim I think we're gonna need to dial 911 because the state of Indiana will be on fire by the time IRI has a winner.

[Travis Hoffman]

I think we're gonna need to dial 911 because the state of Indiana will be on fire by the time IRI has a winner.

Hey maybe this time the fire alarm will actually be useful then. :D

[Dan Petrovic]

Let's just say I'm going to need a lot of batteries...

:p

[Chris Fultz]

Anyone have any idea how the heck the Israeli team is going to get their robot to IRI??
Are they shipping to the high school ahead of time?
I believe they get the award for the most distance ever traveled to come to summer competition... Good luck. Chris C.

It is so cool that team 1577 can attend - definitely the long distance award.

They are going to take their robot apart and bring it in their luggage. We will loan them batteries (maybe other teams can also bring along a spare?). We are working out a place for them to rebuilt before Friday morning.

[Heretic121]

Looks like i will be heading to the midwest for the first time without being there just to catch a lay-over flight outta Chicago...

I just put in a voice mail at work so i dont forget to ask for the days off...

This is going to be one great summer...

[Andy Baker]

They are going to take their robot apart and bring it in their luggage. We will loan them batteries (maybe other teams can also bring along a spare?). We are working out a place for them to rebuilt before Friday morning.

Man, I can't tell when Fultz is kidding and when he's serious. I suppose if there are 10-12 people, each with parts, this could work. We can have an assembly party on the playing field carpet Thursday night. (one year, we watched movies from our sleeping bags on the carpet after IRI setup on Thursday night)

We are working on a shipping setup with BAX Global, who has supported IRI since 2002. Information on this may be a while to come forward (week or two?), since I just started talking to BAX today.

Andy B.

[Chris Fultz]

Man, I can't tell when Fultz is kidding and when he's serious. I suppose if there are 10-12 people, each with parts, this could work. We can have an assembly party on the playing field carpet Thursday night. Andy B.

Actually, this time I am serious. Really.

[Karthik]

Actually, this time I am serious. Really.

Chris,

Team 1114 would love to help with this assembly party. If you need us, you've got us. This is the kind of thing we love doing.

[Jeremiah Johnson]

I'd be up to getting another day off just to help out them put their robot back together! I don't know how my parents or the other people in my group would react... heh.

Wow... how are they going to explain that trying to get through customs?

"What's in your bag?" "A gripper, some ramps, motors, control board, wheels, and lots of metal. It's all fragile and you had better not lose it!!" "Okay, well, um... I don't know what to say. Why didn't you ship it here?" "Would you want to pay shipping from Israel to Indiana? Didn't think so..." *Metal detectors beep loudly* "Okay, I'll have to let you go then."

Oh God, that would be one fun trip. Especially getting into the country.

[Ahnxlazyman]

Hey maybe this time the fire alarm will actually be useful then. :D

so why was the alarm pulled last year?

oh and I can't wait It's going to be a blast last year a friend and I made movies on the way up, heck I plan on doing the talent show too!

[Lil' Lavery]

so why was the alarm pulled last year?

oh and I can't wait It's going to be a blast last year a friend and I made movies on the way up, heck I plan on doing the talent show too!

A certain [Indiana] team shot it with a poof ball.... :rolleyes:

[JaneYoung]

A certain [Indiana] team shot it with a poof ball.... :rolleyes:
ok, so I tried for mmm oh 2 minutes not to say it - but...

this year IRI will be armed and ready

[Arefin Bari]

Chris,

Team 1114 would love to help with this assembly party. If you need us, you've got us. This is the kind of thing we love doing.

I am planning on attending again for the 4th time. You just can't miss IRI. Chris, if they need help, please let me know. I would love to sit there and do what I do best. =)

[Chris Fultz]

Quote:
so why was the alarm pulled last year?

A certain [Indiana] team shot it with a poof ball....

Some ductwork came loose in another part of the building, and blew hot air right onto a heat sensor. This caused the alarm to go off. We had to evacuate the entire building until the fire department declared an all clear.

[IndySam]

It is so cool that team 1577 can attend - definitely the long distance award.

They are going to take their robot apart and bring it in their luggage. We will loan them batteries (maybe other teams can also bring along a spare?). We are working out a place for them to rebuilt before Friday morning.

They can use our shop.

[David55]

Actually, this time I am serious. Really.

Yes, Chris is very serious!!

We have found a simple and effective way to take our robot apart into 5-6 pieces (plus bumpers and extra parts), so every team member will have one piece of luggage and 1 robot part. One of our team member's father can do the packaging, so it all works out.
We will have to coordinate this with the airlines prior to our flight, but we don't expect any special problems (at least not on the transatlantic flight).

Karthik, it would be great if you and anyone else willing to can help us. It would be great if the assembly goes quickly. We estimate it will take 2 hours max to assemble and test the robot.

[Kyle Love]

Yes, Chris is very serious!!

We have found a simple and effective way to take our robot apart into 5-6 pieces (plus bumpers and extra parts), so every team member will have one piece of luggage and 1 robot part. One of our team member's father can do the packaging, so it all works out.
We will have to coordinate this with the airlines prior to our flight, but we don't expect any special problems (at least not on the transatlantic flight).

Karthik, it would be great if you and anyone else willing to can help us. It would be great if the assembly goes quickly. We estimate it will take 2 hours max to assemble and test the robot.

I know I will be in Indy on Thursday evening, if you need help let me know. That goes for everyone else too.

[Josh Murphy]

Can I get a clarification on auto mode? Is it 15 pts for every tube scored in auto mode? So if there are 3 tubes scored would the bonus be 45 or 15?

[Andy Baker]

So if there are 3 tubes scored would the bonus be 45 or 15?

You are correct. Each Keeper scored during auto mode is worth an additional 15 bonus points, on top of the 2 rack points.

Andy B.

[Josh Murphy]

You are correct. Each Keeper scored during auto mode is worth an additional 15 bonus points, on top of the 2 rack points.

Andy B.

Thanks alot Andy.:)