Rule Changes
Elimination of Rule < G16 >
UBERTUBES may be HUNG during the TELEOPERATED PERIOD, doubling the score of the peg on which they are placed. UBERTUBES will only score bonus points that contribute to the AUTONOMOUS SCORE if HUNG during the autonomous period.
Motivation: This change eliminates the penalty that is given to teams when an UBERTUBE is supported by both their robot and a peg at the conclusion of the autonomous period. Furthermore, allowing UBERTUBEs to be scored during the TELEOPERATED PERIOD promotes higher scores from HANGING GAME PIECES relative to points earned from the MINIBOT RACE.
Relaxation of rule < G33 >
Accidental lane violations will not be penalized, provided they are not excessive and do not prevent an opposing robot from retrieving a game piece from the lane. Repeated incursions or attempts to retrieve a game piece that is clearly within the opponent's lane will be penalized.
Motiviation: We understand that many teams will be trying out new drivers, and so accidental, momentary incursions will occur.
*Alliance Selections*
Alliances will be formed using the same process used at official FIRST competitions. The draft will be serpentine (alliance captains will draft in the order 1-8, 8-1), and teams will be allowed to pick amongst the top 8.