2011 Game Hint #1

[Eric24]

Originally Posted by pandamonium

Little EVA - Locomotion - walking robots

from Wikipedia

Robot locomotion is the study of how to design robot appendages and control mechanisms to allow robots to move fluidly and efficiently. Although wheeled robots are typically quite energy efficient and simple to control, other forms of locomotion may be more appropriate for a number of reasons (e.g. traversing rough terrain, moving and interacting in human environments). Furthermore, studying biped and insect-like robots may impact biomechanics.

I like this theory because it would totally level the playing field with a completely new drive train concept. Its also very interesting that AndyMark will now offer pneumatic muscles as part of the FIRST choice program. Making walking robots is a very difficult and complicated task, but I wouldn't put it past the GDC.

[JaneYoung]

Originally Posted by Eric24

Making walking robots is a very difficult and complicated task, but I wouldn't put it past the GDC.

You have to ask yourself if it is worth the risk of failure. What would be the advantage of that, esp. with the amount of rookie teams that have registered this year? The GDC looks at everything from as many angles and perspectives as they can - and they weigh in factors that only their masterminds can weigh in on. If it is felt that the time has come for walking robots or something along that line, then the risk question has been answered, hasn't it?

Jane

P.S. It may seem that I am contradicting myself regarding never underestimating a rookie. I don't and I also don't underestimate veteran teams experiencing a brand spanking new concept in FRC but... again, I would weigh the risks.

[pandamonium]

some people have complained that the robots are too much like big rc cars. This would totally fix that.

great catch on those AndyMark muscles. There is sooooo much evidence pointing at walking robots...

[Thing2_1723]

If this hint has anything to do with mirrors, what if the field was divided in half by a giant, robust mirror to where the drivers could only see what their alliance is doing. Non-contact game...?

But then if there is, it may be confusing for the drivers who are use to seeing a full field.

[Robert Cawthon]

Originally Posted by Thing2_1723

If this hint has anything to do with mirrors, what if the field was divided in half by a giant, robust mirror to where the drivers could only see what their alliance is doing. Non-contact game...?

But then if there is, it may be confusing for the drivers who are use to seeing a full field.

The way I have seen some of the drivers drive (myself incuded), the mirror wouldn't last long. By the way, soccer is supposed to be a non-contact sport, but my kids have been the hospital with various contusions and such more times than I like to remember. Non-contact is a relative thing.

[Robert Cawthon]

Originally Posted by Eric24

Making walking robots is a very difficult and complicated task, but I wouldn't put it past the GDC.

It could be that some of the tasks can be done with a wheeled robot while the most difficult task is done best with another mode of locamotion. (Not Loco-Motion.)