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Unread 15-02-2012, 10:06
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Re: The Ultimate Game-Breaker Robot: 2012 Edition

Quote:
Originally Posted by Aren_Hill View Post
They gave a crystal clear definition of the bridge. Twice
Once, I might add, in exactly that context.

G40: When the final score is assessed per [G37], a Balanced Alliance Bridge will earn points based on the number of Alliance Robots completely supported by the Bridge, per Section 2.2.5, as follows[...]

The Q&A Question, asked under G40 was:
A: What physical parts make up the bridge by definition? Essentially, where does the bridge begin and end? For example, does the welded structure under the bridge that the top connects to count as the bridge? Does the lateral bar that rotates with the bridge that count as the bridge?
The answer, as we all know:
The Bridge consists of all components included in the Bridge Assembly drawing, GE-12017.

I agree they didn't mention every non-top-of-bridge surface directly, but where is the ambiguity in the direction of that question? G40 is about balance and complete bridge support, the question asks 'what parts make up the bridge?', and the GDC answered 'all of them'. In all seriousness, what did they think the question was about, if not balancing on parts other than the one the GDC apparently intended?


Disclaimer: I have to say I view the FIRST challenges more as sports than engineering assignments in this regard. This is probably because I in no way see the GDC as my client--that place is reserved for my students with the GDC as mere facilitators. I really don't care about the GDC's intent after they give a ruling, but I understand that apparently leaves me in the minority. (I am in no way implying that anyone who disagrees with my sentiments doesn't view the students as their goal/client/whathaveyou. Most of the guys on the other end are absolutely excellent mentors and engineers. I'd venture they probably don't view the GDC as just facilitators, though.)
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