Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Since the filming of the video, we colored the rollers on the end yellow and the supporting poles black. Now they're antennas!

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Looking great guys, see you today at Kettering!

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

We had a 2 uber-tube auto planned, but there was a spin move in the sequence which cost us some time. You may have inspired us to put the concept back on the table. 15 seconds might be just enough time afterall.

I love that you can do the auto with just encoders and a gyro. Veteran programming teams ought to be able to help those without autonomous get something together during Thursday if they have the manpower to spare. What do you use as sites to line the robot up initially?

Beautiful robot. You've inspired us once again. :cool:

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

For the first tube:
The 2 minibot towers are not only a rule, but a useful alignment aid. Find something on your robot to align with the towers, and you will have a constant depth reference. Then make sure it is pointed straight up the field at the goal you are intending.

The second tube requires a bit more creativity (but not much). It does require a lot more patience and tuning. Make sure you get 1 and get it repeatably before going for 2. Never compromise 1 for 2. Doing 2 requires a partner letting you, which can be more difficult than you might think. We had a 5 ball auto last year that we were only able to use a couple times.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Just have to say, beautifully robot. Looks like we are not the only ones who can slam into the feeder station wall to get a tube without braking our arm.:D

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Make sure that "something" is the forward-most BUMPER per the Rule <G04>.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

<G04> Each ROBOT must be positioned on the FIELD so that the BUMPER closest to it‟s ALLIANCE‟S PLAYER STATION breaks the plane formed by the POSTS of the opposing ALLIANCE‟S TOWERS. Violation: The MATCH will not start until all ROBOTS are in legal positions. A YELLOW CARD may be assigned for repeated violations.

Interesting. We took this to mean that the bumpers had to break the plane thus you would have approximately 1 robot length of wiggle room to adjust. Just to understand, your take is that it is the front (and only front), and thus you have about 3" of wiggle room. Correct?

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

I also was under the impression that as long as the front bumper is closer to the human player station than the plane of the tower posts (thus breaking the plane) you would be good, giving you approx 1 robot length of wiggle room....but I guess we will find out soon enough.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

(emphasis mine)
My interpretation is that this means that portion of the BUMPER that is closest to the STATION must align with the POLES. There was another thread on CD about this. I don't recall if it was in Q&A or not; I'll look before tomorrow. ;)

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

With robots like this, I can't believe you guys have a bad luck streak going since 2005.

This is the year you'll get gold, I guarantee it. :)

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

I'm going to miss seeing all the witty signs from hangs :(

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

I was wondering how long it would take for someone to post a 2 tube auto. Good stuff! I think we will see a few teams (my guess: 5) who can do it this year.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Something that isn't really highlighted in the video: Our drivetrain.

Our drivetrain this year is the first of its kind. Think 254 + 148.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

Yes I did hear something about an optional 8wd.

Re: pic: Killer Bees 2011 Robot - Buzz XVI
 

2 tube autonomous equals pure win!!
im lovin the bot! very clean, unique, and effective!! cant wait to see it in competition!! :D