[FRC Blog] Robots of Unusual Size (R.O.U.S.)

[Foster]

In VEX land the robots start off being 18" x 18" x 18" and then can grow. There have been some amazing robots that unfolded their wheel bases to become 24" square bases. That helps in keeping the centers low. (Look for Green Egg Robotics)

We even saw "Wall Bots" with 12' extensions to keep other teams from driving by. Not applicable in this game but if you think of a 18" robot flinging out 72" of wings on both sides it's pretty amazing.

I'm looking forward to seeing these "drive system in a pod" teams to flop drives outside the base to allow them to pick up 6 totes without needing 60 lbs of counter balance because they have such a wide wheel base. Mecanum and swerve drive teams have the lead in this area.

Plus that entire "do what you can in 60 seconds" part is great. I know when I built our new laundry room with Ikea flat pack kits I spent less than that assembling it. (*) So that adds an additional realm of possibilities.

Looking forward to the first week of event. BTW, where is "Looking Forward"? I think LF would be jumping on predicting the most unusual game in the last decade.