November Mission Model Discussion: BASE

In this our final entry in the November Mission Model Discussion for HYDRO DYANMICS,  we are going to talk about Base and robot operations at the table. Specifically, what is in Base and how to successfully Launch and the Return to Base. FIRST rules for Launches and Returns change from year-to-year, sometimes it is easy to miss an update, so even if you are an experienced team it is good to review what is a legal launch and what is a legal return, so your team can avoid unnecessary delays and penalties.

At the Beginning of the Match: In Base you will find:

• New Pipe (two, teal) 
• One optional Loop
• Tripod
• Water Well
• Big Water (3)
• Slingshot (water purifier) w/ Dirty Water and Rain installed 

According to Update 6 and R12 in the Challenge Manual: The team may move the models from Base and put them on a tray (off of the table); however, the models must stay in view of the referee at all times. 

Your robot must start the match Completely In Base and must be no taller than 12", referees will be equipped with rulers to verify this. In Base does include inside the field walls. Nothing, including your cables can hang over the wall in a launch. If you have an arm that is up at an angle the referee may use a clipboard to verify it is not crossing the wall. When the referee sees nothing has been placed on the field outside of Base and your robot is still you may activate your robot for launch anytime after the 3, 2, 1, LEGO has been announced. 

During the match: If your robot returns to Base (see returning below) or if you interrupt your robot, you may launch your robot again. This is done the same as before, except the referee will not give you a countdown, you can just hit go when the robot is properly positioned and still. You may continue to send your robot out until the time ends. This will happen 2.5-minutes after you hear the word GO or LEGO.

Returning: Update 8 gives your robot leniency on the volume of Base when the robot returns. While the robot should be completely in Base, including it's cargo, the robot and cargo may hang past the West or South border walls. The robot also does not need to be in the 12" height limit, but will need to return to that limit for another launch. 

In Oregon, your team may bring a small tray or stand to use as an off-field storage. This can also be a teammate with a box. This is a highly recommended strategy as it gives your team a great way to keep the attachments and models organized outside of base so your robot can perform efficiently. Remember only team members can carry and set up the tray and stand and you will only have a minute or so to get it exactly how you want it!

To learn more about the Robot Game in Oregon, please see our robot game website. I hope to see your team Next Week at our Qualifying Tournaments.