Many FRC robots require several different operator inputs in order to accomplish the game objective. With only one person driving, that person is forced to coordinate many different robot functions all at once. Generally it takes quite a bit longer for one person to do it than it does for two drivers. For example, a robot this year might require a number of parameters to be correct in order to score in the 3-point goal. This includes (but is not limited to):
- Robot position (on field)
- Robot orientation (turn angle)
- Robot speed (if shooting while moving)
- Shooter elevation
- Shooter speed
- Shooter alignment (if a turret is used)
- Number of discs in hopper
- Any approaching robots or other obstacles
If two people are operating, it is far easier for one person to deal with drive base parameters while the other operator focuses on the shooter/hopper parameters. If a team of two people has solid communication (e.g. "I am going to drive under the pyramid and stop under the back bar so we can aim and shoot into the 3-point goal" or "I would like for you to drive right under the middle of our pyramid so I can try to aim for the high goal"), then both operators can coordinate their tasks and prime the robot quickly for shooting into one of the goals. A good coach is also key to creating a solid game plan, as the coach can read the entire field and alert the drivers of rapidly changing game conditions. Sometimes it may feel as if all the talking is superfluous and tiresome, but I can guarantee that a highly prepared drive team with solid communication can out-perform a single driver in pretty much any situation.