Communicating with Feeder

[StevenB]

Originally Posted by HumblePie

Holy cannoli, keep it simple folks! The analyst has 2 free hands, 2 simple sets of red/white/blue cards or a 3-sided color-coded signalling post will allow communication with both Feeders.

Originally Posted by smistthegreat

... just a simple poster that the analyst would hold up signaling which shape and which side to load on, similar to the play calling cards that Oregon uses in NCAA football...

It's been said more than a few times, but READ THE MANUAL!
In this case, see

Originally Posted by The All-revealing FRC Game Manual

<T25> The only equipment that may be brought on to the ARENA is the OPERATOR CONSOLE,
reasonable decorative items, and special clothing and/or equipment required due to a
disability. Other items, particularly those intended to provide a competitive advantage for
the TEAM, are prohibited.

Signaling items are definitely illegal.

[ChristopherBuck]

Originally Posted by StevenB

It's It's been said more than a few times, but READ THE MANUAL!
In this case, see

Signaling items are definitely illegal.

Ah, it may seem so, but read on.
I believe the legality of signaling cards, flags, paper, etc. depends upon the interpretation of <T26>

Originally Posted by T26

Devices used solely for the purpose of tracking strategy of hame play are allowed inside the ALLIANCE STATION, if they meet ALL of the following conditions:

• Do not connect to the OPERATOR CONSOLE
• Do not connect to or attach to the FIELD or ARENA
• Do not connect to or attach to another ALLIANCE member
• Do not communicate with anything or anyone outside the ARENA.
• Do no include any form of enabled wireless electronic communication (e.g. radios, walkie-talkies, cell phones, Bluetooth communications, WiFi, etc.)
• Do not in any way affect the outcome of a MATCH, other than by allowing TEAM members to plan or track strategy for the purposes of communication of that strategy to other ALLIANCE members.

[nitneylion452]

Based on T26, it seems legal to bring a signaling device to the driver's station.

[Kevin Sevcik]

I'm doubtful that T26 covers this. It says right there at the top that it covers items used to TRACK strategy. Like whiteboards with scores or something. I don't really see how you can claim that red, white and blue cards are being used to track strategy. Instead of solely being used to communicate to your feeder.

[nitneylion452]

Originally Posted by Kevin Sevcik

I'm doubtful that T26 covers this. It says right there at the top that it covers items used to TRACK strategy. Like whiteboards with scores or something. I don't really see how you can claim that red, white and blue cards are being used to track strategy. Instead of solely being used to communicate to your feeder.

Yes, but wouldn't informing your FEEDER on what shapes you need in the field be tracking your strategy? This game is based solely on these pieces and communication with the feeder, who is in the arena. It doesn't create an unfair advantage.

EDIT:
Someone should Q&A this.

[gblake]

Originally Posted by Kevin Sevcik

I'm doubtful that T26 covers this. It says right there at the top that it covers items used to TRACK strategy. ...

Like Many FRC rules this one starts with a strong unambiguous statement and then attachs an exception/addendum in later statements (I wish they wouldn't do that). The last part of the T26 post says:

Originally Posted by T26
Devices used solely for the purpose of tracking strategy ...
allowing TEAM members to plan or track strategy for the purposes of communication of that strategy to other ALLIANCE members.

Colored cards keep track of the tube your strategy says is needed next and they communicate it to other alliance members.