[ElectronJohn]

Just joined Chief Delphi.

I have been reading through this thread and discussing things with my Coworker. (We are both mentors for the local team here in Pocatello, Idaho. Team 1569)

Here is our SWAG (Scientific Wild A** Guess) at what the clue is: The picture is a clip out of a digital video presentation. We (the viewers) are looking straight down on a scoring platform that is worth 5 points. Guessing on the "diamond" spacing, the plate appears to be about 20 some-odd inches in diameter. The swirled colored background is simply an artifact of the FIRST video show background.

Conclusions:
1) I would agree with the "Gimme 5" title.
2) The picture is of an actual scoring platform. Which makes it too small for robots to climb on.
3) This is one of many platforms at various heights and diameters for which scoring objects are placed upon. Lower, larger platforms are worth less points.
4) In keeping with FIRST symbols, the square is due this year - so the game pieces are likely cubic in nature.
5) Also, in keeping with FIRST, the 5 point platform may be the most elevated - 6 or 7 feet.
6) Game pieces are relatively small and must be widely available. My guess here is a little mini-milk crate organizer sold at WalMart. Other small cubic organizer containers would probably work too. Two colors would be used - one for each alliance.
7) The contest is to load as many square storage containers onto a platform as possible. The higher and more difficult platforms are the most difficult.
8) The playing field has traditionally been quite simple in its construction, so I bet this year's contest will not be exotic in the field elements.

Or - Maybe the clue is the "lid" of a cone shaped bin. Different heights of cones have different points. There are ports just underneath the lids that allow small cubic storage containers to be placed inside. Each opening is surrounded by a "target" color for the cameras to home in on.

Just my thoughts

EJ