FIRST Robotics Competition Blog

We’re using today’s blog to tell you about three juicy pieces of information from the Robot section of the Game Manual and the Kit of Parts.

First, R14. R14 – Software and mechanical/electrical designs created before Kickoff are only permitted if the source files (complete information sufficient to produce the design) are available publicly prior to Kickoff.

So, if you already have a design, and you want to use it this year, post it publicly now.

Second, Motors.

In a former blog post we declared Banebots 775 and 550 motors illegal for the 2016 season. This was because Banebots was no longer producing the motor and we wanted to ensure all teams had access to the same set of motors. After seeing feedback from the community, Banebots was able to work with us and start back up production of the 775 and 550! Banebots will have sufficient stock of both motors for the coming season and thus M7-RS775-18 and M5-RS550-12 will be legal for 2016!

Third, Kit of Parts sizes and weights.

2016 Kickoff Kits will consist of the following items for all teams (sizes and weights are approximate):

1. One set of items, collectively, 27 in. x 17 in. x 13 in., 48 lbs.
2. One set of items, collectively, 2 in. x 2 in. x 48 in., 5 lbs.
3. One item, 8 in. x 3 in. x 7 in., 14 lbs.

2016 Kickoff Kits will include the following additional items for Rookie Teams only:

1. One set of items, collectively, 27 in. x 17 in. x 13 in., 33 lbs.
2. One item, 8 in. x 3 in. x 7 in., 14 lbs.

Teams who did not opt out of the Drive Base Kit will also receive the following item:

1. One set of items, collectively, 7 in. x 7 in. x 34 in., 28 lbs.

Teams who opted into receiving an additional Kickoff Kit’s worth of game pieces will receive:

1. (redacted)

JB