[Brian C]

Well after reading through all of the interesting discussions here I wanted to just add a couple of observations.

The main floor of the Dome is already pretty “busy” with the 4 division fields, the FTC field, the Einstein field along with the support equipment for each one. ( as Scott points out above)

I would love to see more divisions added as it would be great to give more teams the opportunity to be in elimination rounds. However I think realistically you need to look at the logistics of the whole operation.

The current capacity of approximately 400 FRC teams gives us a pit area that is already a very busy place. More teams may be accommodated by using more of the Georgia Convention Centers facility such as where the auto show usually is. However the trade off would be a much longer walk to the Dome floor for teams.

8 championships divisions would likely lead to less teams per division, let’s say approximately 60 teams just for arguments sake. This would lead to less time between matches for teams coupled with the “commute” back and forth to the fields makes it difficult for teams to perform necessary maintenance/repairs.

Now as far as 2 fields per division that sounds a lot like Double Trouble in 1999 where we had 2 smaller fields next to each other allowing for a quick turnaround between matches. While this would certainly allow for matches to cycle quicker you’re still going to be limited by wireless connectivity, scoring system limitations and items to that effect.

At the Long Island Regional we were down to 5 minutes cycle time between matches. 46 teams played 11 qualifying rounds each. I can tell you that we were VERY busy and worked hard to get the matches cycled through as quickly as possible. If it’s possible to move things along more quickly and maintain accuracy we’re always looking for ideas.