WOW factor

[Wayne TenBrink]

The FRC field is usually dominated by the robots that can perform the basic tasks efficiently. This normally means acquiring and releasing the game piece quickly, despite defense pressure. This year it will also require the mobility to neutralize the bump and expand your field presence.

A quiet but valuable WOW factor this year would be quickness - the ability to edge out another robot when both want the same ball, contact the ball at full speed without knocking it away, turn to the goal without losing the ball or having it move out of your kick zone, line up on the goal quickly, and kick it for a score - all in one continuous, fluid motion before the other robot has the chance to block you.

A robot righting itself will be a WOW factor. Needing to use it frequently isn't something to be proud of.

Hanging is always a big WOW factor for the audience, but if you develop that ability at the expense of good ball handling or increased tipping risk, I think you are hurting your overall effectiveness.

I also think that a long kick is a wow factor, but perhaps not a particularly useful one - especially if it means a slow recharge time or a high, heavy mechanism.