[sanddrag]

Ever since the autonomous mode started in 2003, there has been a bigger and bigger push to get teams to complete tasks autonomously. However, there has not been a huge leap in the number of teams that are able to complete complex autonomous tasks very well.

The game must have some provision for huge points scoring for completing a task in autonomous mode. There needs to be so much incentive to do it that no one will not try. It needs to be easy enough for everyone to do, but hard enough to make a lot of effort go into it. Also, this huge amount of points should be available only in autonomous mode. So basically, I'm just saying more points for auto mode.

As for hardware, the gear tooth sensors were a step in the right direction but many teams find it easier to work with shaft encoders. I know many of the kit parts are donated, but perhaps the switch could be made somehow.

Also, I would say to include a couple good potentiometers along with all the instructions on how to use them.

I don't think we need to give up on the camera. But if we are to keep it we should let everyone know that as soon as possible. I would say include it again, but make the task a little easier (like pushing/pulling open a colored door or climbing up a colored ramp) and worth more points. Let teams be aware of what the sensing device (camera, IR, etc) will be and give it to them in a preseason kit so they can try it out sooner.


What would be really interesting would be if you had an autonomous mode that could be actuated at any time during the match by the opponent team/alliance. But I'm afraid that for fear of messing up the robot many teams would elect to have no autonomous mode. You would still need the really big incentive, and it would probably be only effective on a flat field with few obstacles.