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WMRI

posted Oct 26, 2014, 9:57 AM by Olivia Thomas
Yesterday, October 25, the team competed at Zeeland West high school in the annual West Michigan Robotics Invitational. Everyone had a blast, but it was also a really good learning experience for many of the new (and veteran) team members.

In the stands, we ran some practice for scouting. Scouting is the observation of other robots on the field. The information is typically used for alliance selections, when representatives choose other robots to be on their alliance for the elimination tournament. Though we did not rank high enough for the information to be useful, it was good practice for when the real competition season rolls around. We were also really spirited, and it was great to see many of the new members getting just as involved as the veterans.

I am not as well versed in the workings of the robot, but we ran into some problems with the plunger's power and/or accuracy during the matches. The issues were mechanical (not just an issue with the programming), and weren't able to be taken care of at the event. This meant we were not able to score during the autonomous period (our ball was hitting the goal too low). The bot also ran into trouble shooting during the teleop period of the match since the shooter was still not hitting the ball high enough. Part of the issue was not being able to test the shots because we disassembled our 10-pt. goal after last season. Perhaps the issues can be worked on/fixed before the start of next season.

We were able to give most, or all, of those interested in driving the robot a chance to try primary or secondary driving during the event. For many, it was their first time driving the robot. Everyone did wonderfully, and hopefully it gave them more insight to what they'd like to be involved with in the future.

Thank you again to the mentors and their help with the competition, all the parents who helped with the carpool, and everyone who brought snacks to the event. Thank you also to the parents and siblings who came to watch and showed their support for our team. Lastly, to the students who helped so much in the stands and the pit. Most importantly, thank you to Team 2771, Code Red, for lending us their bolt cutters so that we could open our trailer on Friday night.
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