I've been chewing on one for a while now...
Think back to 1999. That's right, the first year of alliances, also the year of the "floppies" and the "puck". Initial field arrangement looks kind of like that and kind of like 2007...
Game object: Traffic cones. They're a challenge to handle, but there are multiple methods. Worse (or better) still, there are a few different types--I'm thinking of using two, namely, your standard "cone" shape and the "pillar" shape that has an octagonal base. Ideally, both have reflective strips (for sensors). The "tray" is described below.
Field layout: At the start of the game, a line of cones is at the midline of the field. Robots start with each in one of three (3) zones at their opponents' end of the field (just to spice things up a bit--it's been a few years). The zones are marked as follows: Colored border, white border, colored border, evenly sized. The colors are the same as the end they are at. In the middle of the field is a structure. It looks like a tray on wheels, and is about 6-8' high, and can be moved around the arena.
Game play: The object of the game is to put the cones either in the tray or in the zones of your color. The tray may be moved for more points (or a multiplier). At the end of the game, a bonus is awarded for robots that are in the "white" zone at their own end. Defense is expected. Descoring is only allowed in the floor goals; penalty for descoring from tray. Lines are counted as in, provided that anything touching the line is otherwise inside the zone. If any part is touching the ground outside the zone, no score.
Human Player: The Human Players may introduce cones into the game. Their robots will be disabled while they do so, however. Should loading zones be involved, a "no-contact" zone will also be declared to extend to about 2' outside the loading zone. Robots must be completely within the zone (within a reasonable judgment) to qualify for protection.
Autonomous: A given number of cones will have reflective tape. Seek and score. 2x normal score. (Noted by refs or by sensors that can detect the tape.)
Scoring: All scores will be assessed at the end of the match, when everything has come to rest. (typically <5 seconds)
-Cone
- in tray, 15
- in floor zone, upright, 5
- in floor zone, knocked over, 7
-"Pillar"
- Must have base to count
- in tray, 10
- in floor zone, upright, 5
- in floor zone, knocked over, 3
-"Tray"
- 20 points for owning it (more cones total, all types)
- x2 multiplier for having it in YOUR side of the field
- Tipping it is an automatic Yellow Card for safety reasons and automatic ownership to the other alliance.
-Robot in zone: 5, 10, 25 for 1, 2, 3 respectively
-Penalties, if assessed: -10, disable, Yellow card, DQ (Red card) may be applied for illegal contact or other violations. Point penalties are always -10 added to your total score.