Tips from a veteran Robot Inspector

[Taylor]

Originally Posted by Wayne Doenges

Now that we are getting near robot completion it is now time to do some self inspection of said robot.
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At the regionals:
1) Don't wait till the last minute to have your robot inspected. You will avoid the rush from the other teams who waited till the last minute.
2) Don't get mad at the inspectors if they ask you to make some changes. They are only trying to help you have a great regional experience.

If your robot isn't complete on Thursday, you can still get a partial inspection. For a big part of the day, there are usually a few inspectors standing around, looking for something to do. Grab one, have him/her look over your robot, cross some things off the checklist, perhaps the inspector can give you insight on simple ways to improve your design or make it compliant. Then, when you're complete and ready to go, you can finish the inspection and be ready to play.

We do this regularly; it gives us a chance to have a fun, relaxed interaction with the inspectors. They've given us lots of tips - both design and strategy.

Inspectors, referees, field crew, administration - they're all good people, and they've all been in your position before. Take the time to make good relationships with them. It'll pay in spades.