[LeelandS]

Anyone can look at the teams who have posted pictures of their robot this year and say that the Ri3D ventures have absolutely influenced many robots this year. I have also seen several people say that because of this, Ri3D should be discouraged.

By looking at these robots, you can tell many designs were inspired by 1114 of 2008. Should 1114 be admonished for this as well? The only difference between deriving inspiration from 1114 and Ri3D is time. Does that make it any different?

There is nothing wrong with this, in my opinion. Teams aren't forced to follow a mould. If a team determines that another robot design is the best choice, they can do it. If they don't, they can come up with something else.

No need to reinvent the wheel.