Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

Teams knew going in that the 4th pick might not play and that it was totally up to the alliance captain. The change was made to let the alliance determine who their back up could be, instead of relying on the ranked order of teams. A team always had the option to say "graciously decline" if they did not like the idea of watching but not playing. Many of the 4th teams felt they contributed to their alliance with strategy, spare parts and other means, even if they did not get onto the field.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

The #5 alliance played the 4th team in both matches. Had we played against any of the other alliances, we would have played the 3rd team. We definitely appreciated the extra flexibility.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

I hope we can make it this year. I think that a fun idea would be to get six amazing hurdlers on the field and put out six trackballs and see how high a score they could get. Make a rule that no-one can play defence. This wouldn't be for the actual competition, just for fun.
Team 1731

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

It sounds like it was a good process adjustment and perhaps we'll see it again this year.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

Last year, Team 48 was fortunate to be able to pick 148 as our 4th team. When 469 had problems, they stepped in admirably and helped get our alliance to one win away from the finals. Also, once 469 fixed their issues, they were able to return and compete in another match--something that the current rule of a permanent replacement by the next available bot on the list would not have allowed. We would definitely vote to continue that rule adjustment this year.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

I'm with John here. Or change it to a 5-count to give teams a little time to fix their errors. This year's game was honestly my least favorite since 2002 all because of the penalties. I'm sure IRI will find a happy medium that will lessen the emphasis on this year's penalties.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

So my team needs info on going. Team SparX 1126 would love to go, but we need time to plan. Where can I sign up for a "request" to attend?

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

They will open up their web page in early May. Watch this thread.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

4 team alliance = flexibility in strategy

One breaks = Replacement who can hurdle...

3 hurdlers + 1 lapbot = OPTIONS

This gives teams the option of swapping out their 3rd weaker hurdler for a fast lapper, depending on their opposition.

RUSH plans to be there, provided we are accepted...Looking forward to going WHERE THE EGOS COME TO PLAY!

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

Chris,
Thanks for the invite today!
Due to scheduling conflicts, many of us will be in Texas during that time.
We will definitely put it on our calendar to attend next year in '09 if you will have us.

Aloha! :D

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

Part of what was disappointing about picking a 4th alliance partner, is that our team was picked in the 2nd round (third robot in the alliance) and the 4th robot ended up playing all of our matches in the elimination rounds, instead of our robot. Although I know it was up to the alliance captain to make this decision, it was disappointing when we were the 2nd pick.

Even having 16 alliances with 3 robots would be better I think, with then playing an "elite 8" match.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

What if the "elite 8" was single-elimination? One match, winner take all.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

In my opinion having 4 teams on an alliance will be an incredible opportunity for strategy in both alliance selection and game play.

Last year 48 was the captain for our alliance. They selected 67, 469, then 148. This provided an excellent opportunity to mix and match scorers/defense/and ramp bots.

48 actually sat out some matches to allow 148, 67, and 469 to all score. Once 469's ramp broke, 48 jumped in and played defense. This concept provide excellent flexibility for our alliance.

Similarly, if it is the same this year hurdlers / lap bots / or defensive bots can be mixed.

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

The Great Indiana License Project (GILP) will come to its stirring conclusion at the IRI. We are within a hundred signatures and a few thousand dollars of the necessary 500 sigs and $6,000 to cover stamping/processing fees from the BMV. We've gained permission from the powers that be to have a display in the commons area between pits & the field where intereted parties may sign the petition and/or make a donation to the fund. Remember, you must be an Indiana resident and intend to purchase a FIRST Robotics license plate in 2009 to sign the petition. (We'll take money from anybody ;))



I've also heard rumors that another Hungry Hungry Hippos tournament may happen sometime that weekend...

Re: 2008 IRI (Indiana Robotics Invitational)
 

Since I haven't chimed in on this topic yet.....

Yes - What Adam said! :)