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Originally Posted by Mark Pettit
What's the difference between purchasing/stocking up on things like extra PWM cables, servos, keyed rod, wheels, etc. and cutting a piece of metal you intend to use for your 2005 robot?
In any case, you're taking the risk of not being able to use any of the stuff you're preparing based on the not-yet-released 2005 rules.
Similarly, what if you manufacture a robot base (or at least cut pieces for it) to the "standard" 30" x 36" dimensions only to find out that the "standards" have changed for 2005?
Let them (us) cut and suffer the possibility of a consequent rule change that renders the piece(s) useless.
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Mark, the difference is the rules forbid you cutting the metal. That is part of fabrication. I am sorry if I offend but this is a black and white issue. White, you follow the rules and do NO work on the robot till kickoff. Black, you throw away gracious professionalism and sportsmanship and cheat as stated by Chris.
I once had a plaque on my wall that said something like this. I live by my standards, if I decide to do something against my standards I lower them so that I do not feel guilty. This is happening so often in our society. I believe that FIRST has higher ideals and that sometimes we must raise our standards to meet those of FIRST.
On the other hand, and only to throw a wrench into things, the 2005 rules are not out yet. That means that you can work to your hearts content without feeling guilty. However once the rules come out and if like last year say no building before kickoff, then you would not be able, with a clear conscience, be able to use those pieces on your robot. The call is yours and you may be the only one who knows what your actions are. Remember that if the students know what is done and we do nothing to correct the problem they will receive a lesson. I hope that it is not a bad one.