Minibot Standardization (FRC 2011: Logomotion)

[bakejame]

I have read through all of the threads on this topic and have come to the conclusion that the best solution would be to make a minibot that is 12*12*12 that is self activated once it is deployed on to the pole. It would make it so that the deployment mechanism only has to push, swing, twist or whatever other way needed to get the the minibot to the pole.

The thought I had for activation was to use a limit switch in the normally open position to detect attachment to the pole. Once the minibot is on the pole it just takes off up the pole.

As for the deployment mechanism, I was thinking of using a notched drawer similar to the earlier sketch with short walls all of the way around it. When the deployment mechanism is retracted inside the hostbot, it would be covered by a top. That would prevent the minibot from being able to come out during game play. If all of the deployment mechanisms are designed to hold a minibot that is the maximum allowed dimensions, and every minibot is built to that standard, then sharing of them is easy.

On a scoring thought, can you make it so that all of the members on an alliance exchange minibots so everyone on the alliance gets coopertition bonuses?

Edit: Two members of an alliance can deploy a minibot, they exchange minibots with each other. Can they both get the coopertition bonus?