Palm OS 2002 Robot Database by Team HEATWAVE

[Paul Dickman]

Team 312 has developed a Palm OS application that can manage a vast amount of information about the other teams and their robots that we would be pleased to share with anyone who is interested. The database includes general specifications of each robot, match sheets, and even an image of the robot (color handhelds only). The application will run on any Palm OS handheld computer, and can be installed by us at our PIT station from our laptop data station. The application database will be managed by us. The way the system works is with a windows synchronization agent that will import all new data from the handheld as well as export and upload to the handheld all updated information collected previously by others. This system allows for the collaboration of hundreds of users in a data collection and communication effort, the efforts of one will be replicated in the database of each other. The handheld software features PIT sheets that keep track of each robot's drive train motors, gear shifting, goal handling, and ball handling abilities, as well as offering a comments field for each robot. The software also features a match sheet set that allows users to log the general events of each match for each robot including the team’s first move, balls and goals acquired, final position, use of remote scoring, alliance score, opponent's score, and an optional comments area. The data the program can hold is simple and to the point. The interface is quick and easy to learn since most data entry is achieved through dropdown menus. In addition to data entry, the program allows users to search for a robot matching specific criteria, or even view a picture of the robot. As an added plus, the program features a strategy planning area which allows users to draw up strategies directly onto a graphic of the field. We will manage and host all the data, and would be more than happy to share the software with anyone who wants it. There is even consideration of a short, ten to fifteen minute, workshop on how to use the software (even though no one should need it). If you’re interested please bring your Palm OS handhelds with cradles to the national competition, and we will give you the software there.

~Paul Dickman
Teacher/coach
Team 312 Heat Wave