New FIRST Ruling -Wow the implications

[Mike Martus]

FIRST has ruled (answered) the question regarding making spare parts for you robot.

They have said ALL repair parts MUST be fabricated during the 6 week build cycle or at the competiton. NO parts may be made and brought to the competition. Parts can only be made from raw materials at the competition.

This means FIRSTERS, that if a special shaft or gear breaks at a regional you MAY be out of the entire competition including the Championship. Machine shops on site are often poorly equiped and very busy ( more so this year ).

And, add to that the flavor of "Football" style play FIRST is encouraging many robots will be in trouble.

This is also encouraging the disregard of "Gracious Professionalism" that would encourage a team to break the rule to survive and keep their robot running. How would anyone know if a part was smuggled in to repair their machine. hey, in past years we at least had until tuesday to make repair parts.

Here is the exact question and OFFICIAL answer.

Suppose a part breaks at a regional that requires machining or
welding or some other process that we do not have access to at a regional.
Is there any time after a regional when we can make replacement or repair parts?
Of course, we will not have our robot, but can we at least make
replacement or repair parts?

While I am at it, how about improved parts? Is improving a robot allowed after shipdate? If so when?

Answer from FIRST) You may purchase off-the-shelf parts (rod, gears, bearings, etc.)
and bring them to events, but all fabrication work must take place
on site at events. On site machine shops should include welding and basic machining capability. You are welcome to build improved parts at events.

If you agree that this ruling is terrible, PLEASE contact FIRST and voice your opinion. I have posted a poll to see what others think.

Of all my years being involved with FIRST (7) this rule really shows me something.