Bob,
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Steele
...The Mini Inspection or PRE-Inspection is primarily a size and weight inspection with a cursory look at a robot safety only...
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Most regionals already do this. Last year, our MINI inspection consisted of the software verification followed by a quick safety inspection (battery secure, 120A CB and PRV (if necessary)).
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Steele
...On Thursday afternoon, any robot that completes the MINI inspection would be able to compete with the caveat that they MUST complete the FULL inspection to be eligible for FRIDAY Qualifications...
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This invites abuse. Some teams could have (intentionally or not) a competitive advantage in their Thursday matches.
More importantly, many teams would intentionally delay starting their inspections until Thursday matches have concluded. Why? Because they would run the risk of being prevented from competing if a problem is found.
At issue here is that "most" rules have a basis in safety or in competitive advantage. We inspectors would now have a greater chance of being the "bad guys". Do we allow a known non-complying team to compete while their fellow teams continue just because they have not started inspection?
I hope you see the potential problems...
I really think that all teams must pass inspection before starting qualifying rounds if the field is to be level.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Steele
...At a team's 2nd regional... they would only be required to do the MINI inspection....unless, of course they had substantially altered their robot in their opinion...
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I like this suggestion...
I see no difference between this and the "honor" system we have now that any changes made after inspection is completed (Friday and Saturday) is brought to the inspector's attention and the change is re-inspected.
Like the Saturday re-inspection, I would add size, weight and a spot check or two to the MINI (for these teams) and let 'em go...
Regards,
Mike