Most of the issues were already covered, but I'll post a few more that bugged me:
1. The bumper rules, specifically the requirement that it be solid "hardwood". I had one rookie team that almost had to run to Home Depot to build all new bumpers because their 1x6 backing was solid pine and not oak. The LRI stepped in and approved their bumpers. I think that just mandating that the backing be solid wood, and not particle board or plywood, would be sufficient.
2. As others have said I would appreciate better webcasting. The overall match presentation could use a facelift, including better visibility about time remaining and the match number.
3. The issues with the game and refs have been well covered. I think the GDC will take this stuff into account next year.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JeffersonMartin
I have to disagree on this one. Due to the bad weather this year, our team lost 10+ days during the build period. The 45lbs was crucial to us actually being able to have a shooter this year. I'm actually really glad that FIRST was able to notice this problem, and address it.
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I agree. That 45 pounds was the difference between my team having a rolling chassis and a functional (if poorly designed) catapult arm.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chris is me
I have one more random negative I really want to discuss.
Why are practice day matches from 10 AM to 4 PM??? They should be 12 to 6 PM instead.
In my five seasons on 2791, we have never, ever been to a practice match before noon. Regardless of how few or how many upgrades we had, getting situated and then inspected would always be the first thing on our minds. Maybe a half dozen robots actually make it to the field before noon.
On top of that, practice matches end super early, at 4 or so! This means teams doing serious upgrades maybe get one match. Then from 4-7, when your robot is *actually* ready to go, you can do nothing. The practice field is already full (and depending on the event may already be full for the NEXT DAY), your robot is ready to go but you have nowhere to use it, so you can either twiddle your thumbs in the pits or go home way early. If we shifted the matches 12-6, field volunteers would be working for the same amount of time, more teams would make it on the field, and everyone would get more practice.
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This is a good idea.