Top speed?

[Gabe15]

Iʻve done a search in the forums and looked through the manual, but canʻt find any rules regarding a top speed for the robot. Just want to make sure Iʻm not missing anything. So is there a top speed for the robot this year? I donʻt think I remember any in past years either.

[Billfred]

There is no speed limit, provided you steer clear of <G37>. Obviously, the laws of physics also want to have a word with you before you embark upon your 50 fps drivetrain.

[Gabe15]

cool, thanks!

[bmather]

There is no rule that specifically states that you must obey the law of physics during the competition. This may be an oversight.

[petek]

Originally Posted by bmather

There is no rule that specifically states that you must obey the law of physics during the competition. This may be an oversight.

I believe that is covered by <General Rule 0>: the part about "...recognition of science..."

[David Brinza]

Speed of light is the fundamental limitation. Sonic booms would probably be discouraged. Most likely, safety will be the determining factor - a 20 ft/sec robot may be deemed unsafe by the referees if it behaves as if out-of-control.

Maybe this year a speed limit will be established, which would be an "interesting" development for the program. Radar guns!!!

[MrForbes]

Restrictor plates, just like NASCAR

.....look it up

[David Brinza]

Another way to get "governors" to FIRST competitions?

[ccsingle07]

There could be a limit on the speed but I doubt that any robot could hit any dangerous top speeds on the short course.

[Scott Carpman]

Good luck trying to turn with a 30 fps drivetrain...

[XXShadowXX]

i think the general speed limit will be limited by the laws or relativity
299 792 458 m / s that should be a general limit to how fast you can travel in the event (or at any time lol)

[BandChick]

Like everyone above me said, there is no SET limit.

But most folks can't handle a drive train that's faster than about 15 f/s.

Steering becomes really uncontrollable, not to mention the increased likelihood that you'll slam into the opposing player station wall, or the center field element. Good luck with whatever you choose!

[Andy A.]

Originally Posted by Scott Carpman

Good luck trying to turn with a 30 fps drivetrain...

Maybe this is the year that automotive style turning, with a differential, makes sense. It would certainly allow high turning speeds and easier turns for the driver to coordinate.

As to the original question, I think the general consensus is that after about 18 FPS a typical robot becomes very difficult to control and a real pig in a turn. Things like trick wheels, multiple motor drive trains, shifting gear boxes and real sharp PID loops could probably make 25 fps or higher controllable and useful, although at that speed your crossing the field very very quickly. It's an awful lot of design trade offs for that speed. But maybe thats worth it to you. If it's ever been worth it, this would be the year. I'd love to see a robot 'hotrod' that just throws every thing it has into a drive train of epic proportions.

-Andy A.

[Tottanka]

Originally Posted by Andy A.

Maybe this is the year that automotive style turning, with a differential, makes sense. It would certainly allow high turning speeds and easier turns for the driver to coordinate.

As to the original question, I think the general consensus is that after about 18 FPS a typical robot becomes very difficult to control and a real pig in a turn. Things like trick wheels, multiple motor drive trains, shifting gear boxes and real sharp PID loops could probably make 25 fps or higher controllable and useful, although at that speed your crossing the field very very quickly. It's an awful lot of design trade offs for that speed. But maybe thats worth it to you. If it's ever been worth it, this would be the year. I'd love to see a robot 'hotrod' that just throws every thing it has into a drive train of epic proportions.

-Andy A.

Did anyone say drift control?

[Gabe15]

We are definetly considering an automotive inspired steering system, but trying not to fall into making a go-cart, was more just curious for other teams sake, but I donʻt think we are going to put that much into speed...but who knows!