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Unread 16-03-2011, 20:54
Unsung FIRST Hero
Al Skierkiewicz Al Skierkiewicz is offline
Broadcast Eng/Chief Robot Inspector
AKA: Big Al WFFA 2005
FRC #0111 (WildStang)
Team Role: Engineer
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Rookie Year: 1996
Location: Wheeling, IL
Posts: 10,792
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Re: Al's Annual Inspection Thread

OK,
Time to talk about bumpers. It seems most teams are getting bumpers right this year. That's good! However, with the bumper zone low to the floor already, some teams have saggy bumper fabric and bumper covers. Teams can be called on bumpers and bumper parts outside the zone during competition. Please keep checking when you take the field to be sure that the fabric is not hanging down to the floor. This occurs mostly at the corners where the fabric is folded. Also bumper skirts tend to get saggy, you should have some method to tighten up the fabric, i.e. velcro, string, or extra staples as needed. No point in getting to a finals match to find that you are being cited for a bumper zone violation.

It has been reported that some teams that are using the terminal blocks from the KOP are having an issue with reliability. If you are using these blocks, remember that they are meant for a certain size wire. The small gauge wire used in the sensors is likely to pullout of the block. Try stripping an inch of insulation and folding the wire back on itself twice before insertion.

Note to all teams in the coming weeks...
There is no honor in being the last robot to inspect or to miss a match because you waited too long. When you inspect early, you get to practice more by being able to enter the "filler line". Teams that have more practice do better in competition, that is a fact. You also get to try out your minibot. Inspect early!

To rookies and veterans with new mentors...
Please ask the LRI or other experienced mentors before you tear your robot apart. If you take the field with a partially working but driving robot, your alliance partners will thank you. A three on two or a three on one game is no fun to watch or to play. There are lots of experienced people who can help you make changes and not miss matches.

Signage...
Many teams are short changing themselves on signage this year. It is hard to tell what sponsor, school or team name is playing. Be proud of your team and display your colors. The announcers will be able to call out your robot name or school while you play and you will get noticed.

BOM...
Needed in electronic form and be visible in the pit during inspections. Most teams are getting this right as well. Be sure to be accurate in your use of the KOP list as well. First can do electronic searches on the BOM to look for interesting parts and those not used.
__________________
Good Luck All. Learn something new, everyday!
Al
WB9UVJ
www.wildstang.org
________________________
Storming the Tower since 1996.

Last edited by Al Skierkiewicz : 16-03-2011 at 21:00.
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