[meaubry]

Once the rule is written and distributed, it doesn't mean that they should still not consider the now exposed concerns and issues related to them. Every year most major sports re-evaluate the rules and change some.

We don't have nor should have to wait a year for this rule to be changed - if, the rule change is done to improve some aspect of the game experience.

In my opinion, the penalties this year are excessive and will have a major impact in the outcome of many of the matches. Does that add any value to the FIRST experience, I think not. So, why not change some that will undoubtedly be a burden on the referees (whom will be busy enough trying to sort out the interference penalties).

Defining the Loading Zone, by the HDPE triangle was debated from almost the kickoff, with FIRST responses clearly and consistently defining the zone as contacting the surface of the triangle. A question was asked and responded to early about danglers and appendages extended from the robot. Answer - NO, not good enough. Clearly, this was to discourage long arm designed robots planting themselves midfield.

Okay, so what now? Danglers from 28" x 38" base clearly visible by a ref? Sorry, but this is still somewhat silly. When teams design robots, many have protective coverings that do not allow anyone to visibly see the 28" x 38" base. And, why continue relying on the subjective decision of someone that can't really be watching 2 things at the same time. Tetra up on a stand, and robot base on the ground.

Wouldn't it be simpler for everyone concerned to simply define the loading zone as a 3 dimensional area defined by the edges of the hdpe triangle and extending 6 inches up. In order to be "in the loading zone", a robot primary drive system or base must extend into or over that defined area.

And, for the auto loader zone I'd instruct the refs to be less judgemental than in the Human player loading zone. I am 100% in support of protecting the students in the human loading zone, but on the other-side? what is the point? Isn't there going to be enough for the ref's to have to try and sort out, why overburden them with one more non-essential decision?

Anyways, thats my take on this.