Quote:
Originally posted by Matt Reiland
There was a major dilema this year, build a machine to get the most points to get you to the finals OR build a robot that will get you automatically picked by design to be in the finals (i.e. three goal handler) We decided to go with a ball/goal handler which will do us well in the qualifying rounds but I don''t know how to deal with some of the robots I have seen with the design we have come up with. So I think the problem is less Engineer and Student as it is building either a robot that can get you points and possibly to the finals or a robot that is designed to win in the finals. I haven't seen many designs that can do BOTH well although they may be out there. This was similar to the y2k game where some teams built defensive only robots some built offense only and some were both. The robot is done so we will give it our best shot.
Somehow I have to believe that goal only handling robots WILL take a beating this year by all teams. What are your options if a robot has a superiour drivetrain to your own and it posseses the goals??? The obvious answer turns out to be 'ramming speed'. Will this be a DQ probably in some cases but seriously what are your options. I think we will see more battlebots this year than any one wants to admit.
Note: Make sure your electronics are protected everyone they cost waaay too much to be trashed in your first round
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FIRST has repeatedly asked that we build robust robots, for they expect full-speed head on rams to occur. It is not a DQ unless it is done with the explicit intent to damage...if they are trying to dislodge you from a goal, pin you, interupt your ball gathering operations, keep you from getting to your (or their) endzone, should not be a DQ. It is up to the ref's, though.