[moderated] Spare Parts Rule for 2005

[Ken Patton]

I am wondering why there hasn't been some indication from FIRST on what they intend for the spare parts rule this year. Often there seems to be some controversy in this area, and I think getting the rule out into the FIRST community before the build season starts would be a good thing.

In the end, I don't care what the rule is, as long as it is consistent and clear.

I think FIRST should clearly define what, if any, items are allowed to be worked on after the ship date and in the days following a regional. Identical spares, functionally similar improvements, all new gizmos, or nothing at all. They should also be super clear about what needs to be in the crate versus what can be brought in to the competition when the team arrives. They should explain where and when repairs are allowed, and they should explain where and when modifications are allowed.

Anybody else have suggestions on what the rule should be for this year? Maybe FIRST will take note if we come up with something useful.

Hopefully the moderators will help us stay on track thinking about this upcoming year rather than rehashing previous years

Ken