Well we were a division finalist, so I thought you may want our info
Programming:
What language did they use?
LabVIEW
Threaded code or just poll in the teleop loop?
I do believe it was a teleop loop. I'm not 100% sure though.
Did they do something in autonomous? If so, what worked?
In Autonomous we shot balls from all 3 zones; we had an autonomous for each zone, and a "sit" autonomous. The modes would tension the kicker, activate the magnet, and kick based on the amount of balls that were in the zone.
We found it beneficial to pre-tension the kicker to save time.
CAN or PWM control?
PWM
Did you use the Classmate for programming your robot or student/school supplied computers?
We use a combination of team and personal laptops. The team laptop contains the master code, while the student laptops contain the code in which they are working on.
Robot Design:
What sensors were used?
Encoders on the drive system (was not used), limit switches for the kicker and arm release, and a pot for the tensioner.
Did you use the vision system?
No.
What drive system? Wheels?
4 Wheel tank drive. 2 Pneumatic wheels in front, 2 omnis in back.
How many motors?
2 CIMs for drive system
1 CIM for winch
2 Window motors for kicker system
2 Fisher Price for magnet and arm release
What material was used for the frame (Aluminum, steel, unobtanium)?
C channel steel.
How did they control the ball?
Single roller on top.
Energy storage for kicker (elastic, pneumatic, motor driven, etc.)?
Variable tension surgical tubing kicker
How did you cut your parts (water jet, LASER, mill, hand tools,etc.)?
Hand tools, mill, lathe.
Did you hang?
Yes.
If so, what wenching approach did you use?
Used a compressed air strut to raise arm, winch and pulley to raise robot,
arm falls once winch is engaged.
The Driver Station
Did you reprogram your dashboard code?
No.
Did you use external controls beyond your joysticks?
No.
Any problems in getting the USB to behave?
No.
Did you use any unusual controls like WiiMotes, XBox controllers, etc.?
3 Logitech Joysticks.
Did you feel that the Classmate was fast enough?
The drivers had mixed feelings about it. We did however purchase one with a larger screen (as compared to the KOP one), which may have had a faster processor and battery. The camera functionality was useful when we had one.
Anything else?
We found that designing and prototyping should always be your first steps. Also that it doesn't take professionally made parts to make a good robot.
Strategy is also your greatest aide in competition.
Any techniques that you feel might be beneficial to others in the future?
Plan, learn, improve, scout, strategize, and
have fun!