[Andrew Blair]

Originally Posted by Gdeaver

I'd like to see the 2007 game rules place limits on the amount of energy available for the robot. Basically I'd like to see teams limited to only 2 batteries for the competition no exceptions. I'm a HVAC contractor and have been going crazy upgrading my customers systems to improve efficiency and cut their operating costs. I always liked their way First competition mirrored the business world. Energy use and costs have become a larger factor in the business world and First should follow and put some focus on it. Last year in the finals we were up against a team with a energy sucking power defensive bot that needed a fresh battery for every match. They were only able to compete because other teams loaned them a full charged battery after every round. For years there has been a Tim Allen attitude pervading First of "More Power". This mind set is out of tune with what is occurring in the real world. For example look at what has happened to Intel's focus as far as energy consumption vs. chip performance. Let's make energy management part of the robot design process. Any comments?

I definently agree that energy conservation and efficiency are always important in the real world, but Intel and other industry's have a bit of an advantage when it comes to designing efficient devices. The computer chip, automobile, microwave, etc. had been along for a long time, with companies shooting for performance, before efficiency came into play. FIRST introduces a new game every year, with new dynamics and correspondingly, devices to deal with them. We really don't have much time to work out 10% greater efficiency on a manipulator or shooter wheel, so that loss is simply countered by being able to change batteries more often in competition.

Teams can push the envelope with ability, weight, speed, etc., and therefore create faster, more exciting and capable machines, if they don't have an overbearing power restriction. When efficiency comes into play, too often teams would have to completely cut devices to save juice. It's kind of like racing efficiencies versus Formula 1 cars. The smaller cars may be more efficient and practical, but nine times out of ten, faster is more exciting.

I do agree that power restrictions would create a new, completely valid and challenging parameter of the competition, and would push teams as much as any other game problem, but I feel that, especially for spectators, the overall level of game interaction and excitement would decrease.