At the forum during the summer, I had suggested that they release the rules early on that had nothing to do with describing the game. Any rules that do not provide a hint to the game or robot construction should be released early. This would allow us all to settle any issues and ask questions about it before we get distracted with the 6-week rush. Last year we had lots of confusion and changes in rules in the middle of the 6-week rush when teams started to complain. So, why not let us settle some of these issues before kickoff?
My specific example was that they should tell us all the admin info about shipping the robot and what the rules would be on spare parts and when they should be shipped.
So, I was thrilled to see that they took my advice on some of this.
BUT, they still did not tell us as much as they could have. They did not tell us about the spare parts shipping rule. Or about when spare parts can and can't be made. And how about the clarification on making modifications to your robot at the competition or until Tuesday with spare parts?
Why can't we get a clear ruling on this now - it would not give away any secrets about the game - right? I am sure there are other rules like this that can be released early. In fact, there should be some universal rules that do not have to change from year to year because they are independent of the game rules. How about the safety rules? Wouldn't the rookie teams benefit most if they could see this early?
