[purduephotog]

Hi Kim! (And others!)

I'm sorry- I didn't mean to imply the regional *wasn't* run correctly- I believe it was run with an excellent vision towards speed and efficiency in a trying set of circumstances.

As I said the only 'impact' (to us) was the cRio battery voltage issue- and it didn't result in a DQ or bypass. The tone of the conversation was that it was up to the students to prove their hardware was functioning properly- but they would not be allowed to do so by asking the ref to verify the voltage on the DS, nor would they be allowed any access to the tools to do so since they would not be allowed back out onto the floor once the crater was set. In fact the only way to test that the field couldn't read the voltage was to go out on the field- which was attempted at lunch but denied. That leaves the DS as the only indicator that voltage is being relayed correctly... but that the field was at fault. You can see the set of contradicting situations here I hope.

John-

I believe the field varied their reports on my points #3, #4. Just because the announcer was significantly early on GO with all teams offending is no reason not to assess the penalties. Touching the ball before the tone is a penalty (although I would argue that touching is not possession as referenced in G40A)
As for #4 there was 'hope there would be time for a re-match' as the official word. That was translated as "We're putting the schedule (<T16>) ahead of what is right". A mistake was made and until the very last match of the day there was still no idea whether or not a rematch would be performed. That acknowledgment of a field fault occurred yet the match replay was not a foregone conclusion.

Joey-
I'll admit your logic is superb here- but given the voluminous rules that detail nearly every situation- I'm surprised this isn't spelled out as acceptable. From what I heard of other conversations with the refs there was going to be a QA determination after the regional to decide if this was a legal activity. My point, albeit slightly rambling, was that in every other rule the teams are directly prevented from profiting from an illegal activity- with (this one) exception. You're right- it sounds like a loop hole.

Kim-
Wrong match. This one occurred during autonomous within seconds of 'go'- I think you are referring to one of the elimination bracket rounds... ?

I loved being there and thought everyone was incredibly accommodating in an ever widening set of problems. Inspectors caught problems and provided help with solutions. Volunteers found answers to tough problems. In the end even the most contentious point I had was played as a rematch.