[moderated] Spare Parts Rule for 2005

[meaubry]

Just a few more thoughts about this subject -
I guess, as usual, it all boils down to defining the word "parts". Transmissions are assemblies if the parts are put together. They are transmission parts, if they are separate pieces not yet assembled. Some arms, legs etc could be welded assemblies that cannot be taken apart yet function as a single part. They also can't be produced at the competition without welding capability. Raw materials are pretty easy for everyone to understand.
You are right - using the KISS rule should apply to volunteers also, why should they even need to be put in a position of determining what is fair and what isn't? Either trust the teams to do the right thing (gracious professionalism) or create a clear, concise rule on what is considered a "spare part" and what isn't. If FIRST does that as soon as possible - teams don't get into the situation of trying to interpret an ambiguous rule. Ken P. is right on in getting this discussion started now - in hopes of making sure that the issue is clearly addressed before (not during) the build cycle.
I'd rather not get into what is fair and what is not - that is an never ending argument. I just know that if the robot gets smashed into or tipped over and that creates a catastrophic failure which in turn requires me to repair the robot, I would think that a team should be able to have "spare replacement parts" available. I changed my mind on this afterthinking a bit more about it. To me, any team that takes the time to plan ahead for potential failures (we do that in practice at work - its called failure mode and effects analysis) and has the ability to produce "spare parts" for those parts that have a "high probability of needing a replacement due to being damaged" should not be penalized. That is not being unfair - it is being smart and planning ahead.
I am also of the opinion that during the competition and at the site - if a team chooses to total reconstruct their robot to function differently (adding or subtracting parts) it should be allowed - as long as the parts being added or altered are created from raw materials brought to the competition (not pre-made parts).
The time is right to discuss this, but I wonder if collectively we can even come to an agreement regarding this issue?