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Module 1 — Game & Field Analysis

Objective: understand constraints, protected zones, and scoring so every design choice stays legal and efficient.

Prereqs: none. Bring the current game manual and field tour videos.

Steps

  • Read the game manual sections on scoring, protected zones, and fouls.
  • Watch the official field tour videos; note heights, widths, openings, and blind spots.
  • Map likely cycle paths and protected areas for your drivetrain choice.
  • List field elements you must interact with (heights, diameters, materials, target tolerances).

Instructions (numbered)

  1. Download and skim the whole manual once; then deep-read scoring/penalties, protected zones, and robot rules.
  2. Watch field tour videos; pause to capture key dimensions and approach angles.
  3. Draw the field and mark protected zones, choke points, starting positions, and likely cycle paths.
  4. Identify required reaches/heights/angles for scoring and climbing; note clearance needs for bumpers/frame.
  5. List potential fouls tied to geometry (e.g., contact in protected zones) and how to avoid them.

Example

  • For a reach task: “Score at height 48 in inside protected area; must extend under 16 in overhang.”

Best practices

  • Translate rules into measurable requirements (height, distance, time) immediately.
  • Separate “must-have” vs “nice-to-have” tasks based on points and protected zones.
  • Capture photos/screenshots from field tours with annotations.

Common mistakes

  • Ignoring protected-zone penalties when planning cycles.
  • Missing height/extension limits and reworking late.
  • Assuming clear sight lines—forgetting driver blind spots.

Checklist

  • Manual read and key rules noted
  • Field map annotated
  • Protected zones and foul risks listed
  • Required reaches/heights/angles captured
  • Initial must-have/nice-to-have list drafted

Recommended tools

  • Manual PDF, field tour playlist, drawing tablet/notebook, ruler/scale overlay.

Sample log (template)

  • Date:
  • People:
  • Rule findings:
  • Field annotations added:
  • Risks/fouls noted:
  • Decisions:

Photos/diagrams

  • [Placeholder: annotated field image with protected zones and cycle paths]

Deliverables

  • Annotated field map with scoring nodes, protected lanes, and preferred cycles.
  • Risk list of penalties and “do-not-hit” geometry.
  • List of required reach/heights/angles for scoring and climbing (if applicable).

Resources

  • Game manual: firstinspires.org/robotics/frc
  • Field tours: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZT9pIgNOV6b3g0-QYDz7eW8lTqrsaprb

Rules to watch

  • G- and H- rules on contact and protected zones (per season).
  • Frame perimeter, starting configuration, and extension limits.
  • Height/transit limits for auto and endgame as defined each year.