Cheesecake: How far is too far?

[Chris is me]

I think it's really important to remember that 2014 was also an anomalous year, where including all three robots in every instance of scoring was crucial for success. Even in other games where scoring was the best option, you could have a weaker third robot.

I think the better question to ask would be if we replayed 2013, what extent would we see cheesecaking? I would argue that we would see almost none with the exception of 84" blockers. These usually weren't pre built, and if they were the blocker was still extremely simple / something that could be done on the spot.

I think discouraging the *general* practice of captains and first picks working with the second pick to modify and improve their robot would be doing a disservice. Quite honestly these situations have been some of the most inspiring parts of FRC for many of us. I get that maybe we shouldn't be letting teams compete with brand new robots for elims in the future, but I am FAR more concerned about an overly broad rule restricting teams from doing other tasks than I am about that. I'm even more concerned about a vaguely worded rule being interpreted by event staff as a ban on robot modifications of any sort.

Originally Posted by Chris is me

I think the better question to ask would be if we replayed 2013, what extent would we see cheesecaking? I would argue that we would see almost none with the exception of 84" blockers. These usually weren't pre built.

I would make sure to bring simple 10 pt. hanging devices that could be attached to an alliance partner who may not have one (or as good of one). While you're right that most tall blockers were made at competition, I would prepare my team with either the ability to make an effective one quickly or have an effective design brought with me. Some games can be played all by yourself, and others require all alliance partners to be functioning at their best. If it's to your advantage to have all of your alliance partners able to contribute as many points possible to the alliance (which could be vital to winning some of the close matches for W-L-T games, or for average scoring ranking like this year), doing anything you can to gain points for your alliance or deny your opponents points would be helpful.