We appreciate the amazing feedback from the FIRST community. We’ve been humbled by the overwhelming response from everyone. We would love to answer a few frequently asked questions about our robot(s).
How do you grab the recycling containers legally?
-The mechanism is supported between Batman and Robin with a string and not by the cans. With our interpretation of the rules, we believe that the mechanism is legal because it is not supported in any way by game pieces.
What is transport config?
- Batman and Robin hug with Alfred in between.
What is the combined weight?
-118.8 pounds
Can it setup in under 60-seconds?
-We were also worried about this, but our Drive Team has been practicing to make sure we meet the required time. With this practice we have no doubts about our drive team being able to set-up in less than 60-seconds.
Does your tether interfere with robots?
-After extensive testing we have come to a conclusion that our tether does not interfere with other robots. To ensure that there is no complications with our partners, we will have a detailed pre-match discussion about our tether and if they are comfortable playing with us.
Your pool-noodling seems illegal?
We weren't sure either. Thankfully the Q&A clarified:
http://goo.gl/0bCuu1
What intake wheels are you using?
-4” Sure-Grip Neoprene Drive Roller Wheels. We ordered ours from McMaster.
How long is the tether? What is it made of?
-25ft Batman to Robin, 17ft Robin to Alfred. It is made of VEXpro 12AWG Silicone wire covered by PET expandable braided sleeving.
How much does the tether weigh?
-6 pounds total for both tethers.
Who drives what robot? Does your Human Player drive Robin?
-The driver drives Batman and Operator drives Robin. Our Human player just human plays.
What is the 3rd robot called?
-The team has decided to name the third robot Alfred.
Where was your inspiration?
-We take inspiration from everywhere, but in particular some of the "out of the box" robots from the VEX Robotics Competition heavily inspired us. Tethered robots have been very successful in that competition for a few years.
Are the three recycling containers still attached to the winch at the end of auto?
-No, the "grappling hooks" are spring loaded and pull free when the recycling containers reach the end of travel.
We would like to thank everyone again for their questions and amazing feedback. I hope that these answers shed some light on our robot and design process. We look forward to competing at the Dallas and Las Vegas regionals and at the World Championship in St. Louis. If you are attending one of these events, please stop by our pit. The other students and I would love to answer any questions about our robot(s).