Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Does the MiniBot have to be a "Bot" can it just be a block that hits the light and sets it off?

Cause what it really needs to do it hit the button at the top of the pole to set the light off. Does it need all the requirements of a robot can't it just be an object like a computer mouse that sets it off.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

There is a specific definition of MINIBOT, including the parts it must be made out of. It does not have to meet the size/weight requirements for the ROBOT; it has it's own set of rules. See section 4.3.14 of the manual for rules on the MINIBOT and section 1.6 for definitions. ::rtm::

There is currently a debate about whether it is permissible to launch a passive MINIBOT to hit the target, which will hopefully be resolved in a Team Update or Q&A response within a couple of days.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

I am pretty sure that the rules say that you must have the minibot attach to the tower below the deployment line. As long as you do not launch the Minibot above the deployment line then you can launch a minibot away from your hostbot.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

They say it must be deployed below the line. <G20>, <G22>. But the definition of deployment is sufficiently vague to be possibly construed as allowing launching and not contacting the post at all.

However, launching something that is not attached to the pole will be frowned upon under the Safety rules.

P.S. "Pretty sure" doesn't cut it. It is best to cite the rule. For example, last year a team was "pretty sure" that their relief valve could be located off the compressor. The inspector at a preseason said it was good... Then the LRI agreed with me that it wasn't at the official event.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

In the manual, it specifies that you need at least ONE battery on the minibot. However, that doesn't mean you have to hook it up to anything.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Could you quote that rule please? I can't seem to find it... ::rtm::

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Please show me where it says you need that.

Prize: 1 cookie.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Some folks say <R92> says that.

I say that it doesn't, and I also think the GDC has enough common sense not to force us to use a battery.

But even <R92> bars more than one battery.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

After seeing EricH's post, though, I'm starting to question this statement.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

I was more refering to the 'at least' part.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

I agree that a battery isn't required, it is just stated that the 12v is allowed. According to what I've read, I don't feel that the MiniBot needs to remain atop the tower once the pressure sensors have been triggered.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

<R92> begins with: "The following items are the only permitted materials for use on the MINIBOTS:" The list following is only a list of the items that can be used... a team isn't required to use all of them or any specific ones, as long as no unlisted components are used.

This seems like the most reasonable interpretation, I suppose the question should be asked of the GDC, though...

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

I'm >< to calling the GDC politicians instead of geniuses.

From Team Update #1: In other words, you must use the FTC battery.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

i just read rule G19. all it says is: "After deployment, minirobots must remain completely autonomous."

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Sigh. Glad they announced this after FIRST Choice orders could started to be placed.

I highly doubt this was a decision made after 3 days of the game being out.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

in update #1 it states that your mine bot has to be attached to the pole so no lanching

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

i take it back, G19 is exactly what EricH said:p

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

BLUEBOX <G19> states that HOSTBOTS are not allowed to launch the MINIBOT up the pole at the TARGET, or otherwise contribute to the vertical movement of the MINIBOT.

Then could the minibot somehow trigger a device itself (spring loaded) and shoot itself up to the top of the pole?

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Same Bluebox says something to the effect of you can't store vertical-movement energy in the Minibot, except in the battery.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Then couldn't the spring be on the bottom of the minibot and a motor powers it downwards. After a certain period of time, the motor stops and a mechanism triggers the spring to release and propel it to the top (with the help of the motors going forward).

Would this be considered as stored energy?

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

Is permitted to be made of, not "must".
It doesn't matter what you feel. Sorry to be harsh, but inaccurate information on ChiefDelphi is far more damaging than NO information.
Only if you expect your minibot to use any energy! :p If you're fine with it sitting at the bottom of the pole after deployment, then no battery is required.

Re: Does the MiniBot need to be a "bot"
 

ok to anyone who may be thinking about using springs please read <R92>
it will save you time later :/