2003 FIRST LEGO League Forum Archive

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   BRAZIL - [for Brazilian members]
   CANADA - [for Canadian members]
       the red hot Martians
   CHINA - [for Chinese members]
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       Darf der Robo in der Base gedreht werden
       Frankfurt am Main Wettbewerb
       Was nicht interessiert
       wie viele punkte habt ihr schon
   FEEDBACK
       Mat Shipment problems
       tournament feedback
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   FRANCE - [for French members]
       bonne chance!
       jujubeans
   HOLLAND - [for Dutch members]
       Algemene vragen
           onderzoek
       Interessante links
       Mededelingen van de organisatie
       Missie doelen
       Vragen over de regels
   KOREA - [for Korean members]
       Seoul Mokdong LEC
   Make International Contact - [for ALL members]
       HELP FOLDER
       hi everyone i like the tennesse titans and im from ri
   NORTH AMERICA - [for North America members]
       ***ICE CORES RESEARCH INFO AND QUESTIONS***
       2003 Mission Mars tournament Results
       Alabama
       Alaska
           Mission strategies
       Arizona
       Arkansas
           Thank You!
           Welcome!
               AHGDKH
           what happens if a construced building was to be destroyed on accident?
       Atlanta
       California
           habitation modules
           State Tournament at LegoLand
       Changing Pieces
       Colorado
       commnications
       Connecticut
           New Tournament Listing
       dhms questions
       Equipment Questions
           lubrication of lego parts
       Florida
       Georgia
       Hawaii
       HELP!!! Is anyone else doing Ice Cores?
       Homeschool
       Ice Cores Research Help
       Illinois
       Indiana
           6 Little Alien FACTS
           6 LITTLE ALIENS
           don't you hate it when your frinds think that being in the teens dorent mean you can't play with lego's
           Mars Information
           Northern Indiana Teams
               South Bend-Granger area
               Valparaiso
           THE 6 LITTLE ALIEN FILES
       Iowa
           what problems are you having
       Kentucky
       LEGO MINDSTORMS DOOMED?!
       Maine
           New Tournament Listing
       Marketing, Fundraising and PR
           FLL Awareness and general PR
           Fund Raising Ideas
           Fundraising for trip to FLL Invitational
           Marketing And The Robot
           School related questions
       Maryland
       Massachusetts
           New Tournament Available
           reid robtoics
           talking
               talking
       Michigan
           FJH First lego League
           Gearheads of the future
           LEGO websites?
           rover raiders
           State Tournament Wrap-Up
           Total Points
           URGENT - "We need your help" 11-26-2003
           West Michigan LEGO Mania - Regional Tournament
       Minnesota
       Missouri
       Nevada
       New Hampshire
           Nashua Area Folder
               New Tournament
       New Jersey
       New York
       North Carolina
       Ohio
       Oregon
           machinations #1
       Pennsylvania
           Park Foresr
           PENNSYLVANIA
           PENNSYLYANIA
       Programming Questions
           General Programming Questions
           Mindscrips questions
           RoboLab questions
           Robotic Invention System (RIS) Questions
               Program too long
       Research
           Reaserch Question
       Rules and Missions Questions
           All Terrain Vehicle Test
           Clear Solar Panel
           Complete Alliance Habitation Module
           Connect 90&180 Habitation Modules
               Getting Double Points
           Exit the Tetrahedron Base
           Free the Rover
           General questions
               Containers
               General Help
               Mars Events
               Questions regarding satelite robots
           Launch Sample Canister
           Move Boulders to Launch Circle
           Recover Ice Cores
           Research project questions
               Research assignments seem hard
           Strategies
       South Carolina
       Stamford CT
       Strategies
       Team Management Questions
       Team members at the table
       Team Registration Status & other Info
       Technical and Teamwork presentations
       Tennessee
       Texas
       Tournament Director's Forum
       Unofficial FAQ Feedback
       Utah
       Vermont
       Virginia
       Washington
       Washington D.C.
       West Virginia
       Where do i finf the rule book?
       Wisconsin
           Girls how are you deling?
           HELP US!!!
           Release Forms
           What about your robot?
               Habitation Modules
                   Rover off Dune
   SINGAPORE - [for Singapore members]
       MAV launcher
       MindStorm
       To CHIJ Toa Payoh team no.20
       To INSPIRON of victoria
   SKANDINAVIEN - [for Scandinavian members]
   UNITED KINGDOM - [for UK members]
       DHS

Folder: BRAZIL - [for Brazilian members] 02/22/2004 22:57:38 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns Brazil in this folder.

Discussion: Welcome to all the Brazilian teams By: sysop 02/22/2004 22:57:38 GMT
Welcome to all the Brazilian teams here in 2003.

  1. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:32:49 GMT
    Good luck from the Metal Martians from Canada!


    1. Message by: redice2598 10/26/2003 20:58:27 GMT
      HELLO BRAZIL!!!!!!!! WE COME IN PEACE in Cincinnati,Ohio


    2. Message by: Blazed Martians 12/05/2003 00:07:39 GMT
      hola que tal como estas


      1. Message by: Sindarin148 02/22/2004 22:52:04 GMT
        hola amigo coma estas


      2. Message by: Sindarin148 02/22/2004 22:55:10 GMT
        holame name le annemia


      3. Message by: Sindarin148 02/22/2004 22:57:38 GMT
        holame name le annemia


    3. Message by: 01/08/2004 16:59:46 GMT
      Deleted


    4. Message by: Sindarin148 02/22/2004 22:56:25 GMT
      please answer


    5. Message by: GMT


Discussion: Hello from Newark, NJ (USA) By: Int'lSci-Techs2073 11/25/2003 15:26:24 GMT
We are a new team in the USA. We attend Oliver St. School in Newark, NJ. Most of the team members are in the 8th grade & 13 or 14 years old. Some of us are from Brazil, Portugal, Ecuador & Puerto Rico. Our first competition will be in December.
We hope to correspond with international teams as part of our learning activities. Mrs. Rodriguez, our coach is from Spain and our school principal, Mrs. Golden, is "carioca"! Please write back soon!

International Sci-Techs Team #2073

Oi! Tudo legal? Meu time quer corresponder com um time brasileiro. Podemos ser aliados?! Ciao! Mrs. Golden

  1. Message by: Int'lSci-Techs2073 11/20/2003 22:14:22 GMT
    Hello from Newark, NJ (USA)
    Int'lSci-Techs2073 - 09:13pm Nov 20, 2003

    We are a new team in the USA. We attend Oliver St. School in Newark, NJ. Most of the team members are in the 8th grade & 13 or 14 years old. Some of us are from Brazil, Portugal, Ecuador & Puerto Rico. Our first competition will be in December.
    We hope to correspond with international teams as part of our learning activities. Mrs. Rodriguez, our coach is from Spain and our school principal, Mrs. Golden, is "carioca"! Please write back soon!

    International Sci-Techs Team #2073

    Oi! Tudo legal? Meu time quer corresponder com um time brasileiro. Podemos ser aliados?! Ciao! Mrs. Golden


    1. Message by: 11/25/2003 15:26:24 GMT
      Deleted



Folder: CANADA - [for Canadian members] 02/02/2004 23:42:46 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns Canada in this folder.


Folder: the red hot Martians 11/21/2003 00:21:30 GMT


Discussion: MARTIANS By: Martians2315 11/21/2003 00:21:30 GMT
the best team We say is the Martions.How about you?

  1. Message by: Martians2315 10/15/2003 18:32:45 GMT
    Have some milk.


    1. Message by: ViperHawk880 10/24/2003 18:27:53 GMT
      testing


      1. Message by: redice2598 10/26/2003 20:55:21 GMT
        What are you testing???????


    2. Message by: redice2598 10/26/2003 20:54:16 GMT
      Builds strong bones. Did you know that?????? PEACE OUT DUDES!!!!!!!!$ We are in Cincinnati Ohio.


    3. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 20:28:32 GMT
      Hi we don't know who the best team is? Can you help us by sharing ideas?


      1. Message by: Tecumseh Space Krustaceans 11/09/2003 18:54:15 GMT
        Tecumseh Space Krustaceans r the best team!!!


    4. Message by: SMMS 11/03/2003 21:43:26 GMT
      Hi from Connecticut USA.

      Team SMMS :) ;)


    5. Message by: challoner233 11/05/2003 22:43:11 GMT
      testing tests


    6. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/13/2003 19:25:50 GMT
      Hi,what are your team members name?Whats your teams name called? How is your robot doing? Write back.


    7. Message by: 11/21/2003 00:21:30 GMT
      Deleted


    8. Message by: GMT


Discussion: The Red Hot Comets (hi) By: redraiders76 12/24/2003 03:42:37 GMT
Hi we are The Red Hot Comets and we are new to this!Please send one to United Kingdom so that I can read it and I hope you win and have a good time!!!

  1. Message by: pcans2966 09/21/2003 21:39:37 GMT
    Hi we are a new team from Fonthill Ontario. We hope you all have a good time in the compitition!


    1. Message by: metal martians 2537 09/24/2003 01:21:57 GMT
      hi! We are the Metal Martians from Ajax Ontario. Hope to see you at the competition!


    2. Message by: GYRO2817 09/24/2003 06:58:19 GMT
      Hi we are a new team from Georgetown, Ontario. We are still awaiting our challenge set from Spectrum so we can prepare the playing field. We've seen pictures of the pieces on US site and can't wait to have them in front of us.


    3. Message by: redraiders76 09/25/2003 17:17:33 GMT
      we are the red raiders I hope you have a great time building!
      from a team member


    4. Message by: pcans2966 10/03/2003 21:33:56 GMT
      We are having a fun time so far. Weve built all the objectives and have a neat idea.


      1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 17:26:00 GMT
        From: Viperhawk880 What is your neat idea?Please REPLY.


    5. Message by: GYRO2817 10/13/2003 19:38:22 GMT
      that sounds great! we are from Georgetown Ontario and are having a great time so far!!!


    6. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:51:07 GMT
      Hi again, we have built all our playing feild and can do two missions we are also very excited about every thing and we are having a great time! Are you competing in the Ontario competion?
      Lauren and Adam


    7. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 22:50:24 GMT
      I was just wondering about if you can bob underneath the MAV Launcher to lift it? HOW?????????????????????????????
      PLEASE TELL ME!


      1. Message by: 10/27/2003 22:52:25 GMT
        Deleted


    8. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 22:53:39 GMT
      KATIA FROM KENOLLIE P.S. ROCKS!AND MAXAMILLIAN DOES NOT!


    9. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 22:57:53 GMT
      Katia From Kenollie is a dud! Max Rules!


    10. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 22:58:36 GMT
      dont listen to anything she says

      Max the Cool One!


    11. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 23:01:58 GMT
      HI! I"M FROM KENOLLIE IN CANADA ONTARIO! MAXAMILLIEN IS UNCOOL!


    12. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 23:03:01 GMT
      mAX, bE qUIECT 4 1CE!
      -SUPER PINK-GAL KATIA


    13. Message by: Kenollie2876 10/27/2003 23:03:07 GMT
      KATIA IS THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!::::::::::::::::::::JJJJJJJJJJJJ::::::::::::::""""""""""HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH::::::::::::::}}}}}}}}}}}})))))))))))))++++++++++++++&&&&&&&&&&(((((((((((||||||||||||


    14. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 20:33:09 GMT
      Hi we are a team from Toronto. WE SPENT ALL OF OCTOBER building our challenge set.It arrived in early October. We started the first challenge today


    15. Message by: legofreaks3296 10/30/2003 20:02:57 GMT
      We're from Calgary and we already have our set


    16. Message by: SMMS 11/03/2003 21:42:07 GMT
      Hi from Connecticut USA.

      Team SMMS :) ;)


    17. Message by: chicksinspace1828 11/05/2003 00:40:11 GMT
      hi!We are the shebots we are all girls from america!


    18. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/13/2003 19:34:34 GMT
      Hello,We are a team from Toronto.How is your robot?


    19. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/13/2003 19:35:45 GMT
      Hello,we really like robots,do you?


    20. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/13/2003 23:26:03 GMT
      we cant wait to be in front of a team to.we are new too we are in florida


    21. Message by: crusaders2601 12/24/2003 03:42:37 GMT
      Hey ya'll from the Rock Newfoundland we just won the compition and now are going to Atlanta. Good luck to everyone else


    22. Message by: GMT


Discussion: HELLO FROM FONTHILL By: pcans2966 12/01/2003 18:53:27 GMT
Hello, we are new to this competition. We hope you all have a good time and we hope to see you in Toronto!!

  1. Message by: pcans2966 09/21/2003 22:36:02 GMT
    Hiya Every1 is ne1 here? Good luck with our robot! This is FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


    1. Message by: TeamGGS1053 09/30/2003 09:06:20 GMT
      Hello from Germany. God luck for the contest. We hope you all have a good time in Toronto.

      GGS Team Lingen (Germany)


    2. Message by: pcans2966 10/05/2003 16:09:20 GMT
      Hi everyone! Im reshearching the ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE TEST.
      If you have any hints tips or trick can you let me know?
      Does anyone have a robot or wheel design that works? every time we try our robot flips over (altough we havent done anything to the wheels yet we're still working on that)

      Thx!


      1. Message by: BlueWizards221 10/13/2003 04:34:19 GMT
        Big wheels in back and med. wheels in front, also make sure that most of the weight is in the front, if its back heavy the robo will filp a ton


      2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/07/2003 21:52:01 GMT
        Have the small wheels in the front, and the big wheels in the back


    3. Message by: BlueWizards221 10/13/2003 04:35:18 GMT
      comming here from U.S. hope u got good luck to


    4. Message by: GYRO2817 10/14/2003 02:08:54 GMT
      Hi from Georgetown.Can you give me a strategy for picking up the ice cores?


      1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/07/2003 21:43:49 GMT
        hi. we are viperhawk880, and we can help. what you need to do is make a forklift. We aren't going to Toronto , we are in Windsor at the St.Clair Collage.


        1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/21/2003 19:20:15 GMT
          We are almost done so do you need help?


    5. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:54:06 GMT
      We are the Metal Martians and we are going to Toronto too and we have not started the ice cores. Sorry!
      Lauren and Adam


    6. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 20:52:42 GMT
      HI everyone we researched about the Real Mav launcher! Hi from Toronto!


    7. Message by: pcans2966 12/01/2003 18:53:27 GMT
      Is there another copatition in Florda? If there is which team would be going?


Discussion: Hello from Windsor! By: ViperHawk880 11/25/2003 19:20:05 GMT
Hello! We are the hawks from windsor! We have the best plans for this years season which is our 2nd. We will try to aim for something bigger this year atfer we won the Robust design award.

  1. Message by: 10/27/2003 19:41:19 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 20:56:07 GMT
      Wow this is your second year. It is our first...we are rookies from Toronto.


    2. Message by: legofreaks3296 10/30/2003 20:00:01 GMT
      Woah!A second year this our first in Calgary!


    3. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/02/2003 19:46:56 GMT
      b I even made a vertical motor mount for our bot this year!
      We're not as behind on our work this year but last year that was the real problem, but we we're able to make it by building a roverbot.


      1. Message by: GYRO2817 11/03/2003 02:12:22 GMT
        You mean your RCX is mounted vertically or just the motors. I don't understand what is a vetical motor mount.


        1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/03/2003 23:42:50 GMT
          No, Just 1 motor is mounted verticaly and it's being used as a turret for our Solar Panel cleaner


        2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 18:39:06 GMT
          just the motor for a swing arm


    4. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/06/2003 13:55:17 GMT
      what do you mean it is being used for a solar panel
      How can that happen? Oh and by the way "mounted" means just permanently put on. Then is your solar panel shooting things or is it just ramming stuff. thats probably because your wheels are just moving the opposite ways


      1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/07/2003 21:26:54 GMT
        For one, It's attached together using lego (Of course!)
        Also we were talking about the clear the dust off the solar panel challenge.


      2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 18:40:18 GMT
        the are swings and clears the solar panel


    5. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:27:04 GMT
      Hello from Toronto ...
      New Caption Contest.
      : , .
      : ; .


    6. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:29:02 GMT
      Do you call your robot any name?


    7. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:33:38 GMT
      Hello,........Are you calling your robot a name? If you are what is it? BYE F0R NOWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


    8. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:39:23 GMT
      A now but for some of us it is our first.


    9. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/25/2003 19:20:05 GMT
      Do you call your robot any name?


Discussion: Reasearch By: SMMS 02/02/2004 19:29:23 GMT
Hi we are a team from Stamford, Connecticut if you have any info on reasearch postit in the Conect i cut folder.

  1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 20:59:14 GMT
    Hi we had 2 people research the Mav Launcher. We know how the real one looks and about the Mars project in 2015 when astronauts will try to live in a habitation module. Hi from Toronto


    1. Message by: SMMS 11/03/2003 21:41:16 GMT
      Hi, my team is interested to see how the real MAV Launcher looks. Could you please send us the link.
      Thank you. :)

      Team SMMS Connecticut USA ;)


    2. Message by: teamtech13 02/02/2004 19:29:23 GMT
      Our team is reasearching the MAV launcher as well


Discussion: Hi! By: ViperHawk880 12/05/2003 23:11:55 GMT
Hi! this is Viperhawk880. We are from Windsor. We have finished our project already.

  1. Message by: 10/27/2003 19:30:26 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/27/2003 22:33:48 GMT
      you are a bunch of showoffs


    2. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/27/2003 22:36:06 GMT
      Blaine school says hi and good luck at the turnament


    3. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/27/2003 22:39:55 GMT
      what was your reaserch project


    4. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/29/2003 21:01:04 GMT
      we have almost finished our research project too. We are making a presentation. Hi from Toronto!


    5. Message by: SMMS 11/03/2003 15:26:03 GMT
      Hi we are from Connecticut USA.
      :)
      Team SMMS ;)


    6. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 17:26:51 GMT
      Hi Im a VIPER HAWK from Windsor Ontario Canada.
      How are you doing on your robot so far?
      If you are having any trouble just ask me.
      because Im real smart.


    7. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/21/2003 19:23:52 GMT
      Right...


    8. Message by: Dragons901 12/05/2003 23:11:55 GMT
      crazy people and what churchill4/5martians said


Discussion: hay By: ViperHawk880 11/21/2003 00:14:16 GMT
hellow from windsor ontario

  1. Message by: GYRO2817 11/21/2003 00:14:16 GMT
    Hello from Georgetown, Ontario. Good luck.


Discussion: hellow from windsor By: ViperHawk880 11/25/2003 19:27:05 GMT
hi we are the viperhawk880 in Windser Ontario,has any one finished yet?

  1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/30/2003 19:23:56 GMT
    Hello we are just starting mission 1
    what about you


    1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/30/2003 19:25:32 GMT
      Hello we are just starting mission 1
      what about you?????

      Good luck


      1. Message by: 11/07/2003 21:25:36 GMT
        Deleted


      2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/07/2003 21:29:47 GMT
        We are an mission 2&3. Good luck.


      3. Message by: 11/10/2003 19:42:18 GMT
        Deleted


    2. Message by: ViperHawk880 10/31/2003 02:46:36 GMT
      we are working on the first mission


    3. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/07/2003 21:24:20 GMT
      Are you aloud to have an arm attachments hang over the transportation base?


      1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:39:35 GMT
        HHHHHEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


    4. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/25/2003 19:21:24 GMT
      Hello is this your first year? This is our first year too.


    5. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/25/2003 19:27:05 GMT
      HHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLOOOOOO

      HOW ARE YOU? IS THIS YOUR FIRST YEAR?


Discussion: Hi from Connecticut USA By: SMMS 11/19/2003 21:45:42 GMT
Hi, my team would like to ralk to yours.
:)
Team SMMS ;)

  1. Message by: 11/14/2003 18:37:51 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: 11/14/2003 18:39:00 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 18:43:03 GMT
      hay did you mean you wonted the talk to us or rock us?


      1. Message by: SMMS 11/19/2003 21:45:42 GMT
        I meant talk thanks for pointing it out. :)

        Teams SMMS Connecticut USA ;)


Discussion: help, one motor goes faster than another although they bothare the same type, it's nothing to do with the cogs By: challoner233 12/05/2003 20:16:54 GMT
helllllp we've only got a week before we have the competition

  1. Message by: gearheads3580 11/11/2003 17:38:21 GMT
    you cant do anything about it sorry


    1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/11/2003 21:24:27 GMT
      The problem could be that you set the power levels diffrently on each drive motor. You should always make sure that both drive motors are the same power level.

      Here's an example:
      A-8 B-6 C-7 =Wrong!
      A-8 B-6 C-8= Right!


    2. Message by: 12/05/2003 20:16:54 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: How do you order stuff By: gearheads3580 11/26/2003 19:21:25 GMT
could someone please help us we dont know where to order our equipment

  1. Message by: gearheads3580 11/11/2003 17:47:12 GMT
    How do you order or buy part for the game board??


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/17/2003 22:22:36 GMT
      i DONT KNOW, MY MASTERS


    2. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/26/2003 19:21:25 GMT
      We dont now.But we can find out.Do you what us too? -ROBBYN


Discussion: out of time? By: ViperHawk880 02/02/2004 19:32:57 GMT
with the Windsor tournament on november 15 2003 how many people are struggling to finish is time for the tournament? we have 1 mission attempt finished and working on the second.

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/17/2003 21:50:59 GMT
    many.were on our 5th.


    1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/20/2003 19:22:35 GMT
      Are you done yet?


    2. Message by: cove cliff3394 11/20/2003 22:50:54 GMT
      how do you download to USB port??


    3. Message by: teamtech13 02/02/2004 19:32:57 GMT
      I'm from Edmonton and our team has a Calgary competition on Saturday(Feb.7. Is anyone going to that competition?? Our team is done our robot and is now putting the finishing touches on. Are you supposed to have many robots?


Discussion: Winners of the Newfoundland & Labrodor Tournament By: crusaders2601 01/10/2004 06:29:31 GMT
The winners of the newfoundland and labrodor robotics tournament was st. francis school... congratulations St. Francis!!!!

  1. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 18:08:52 GMT
    I bet our robot could beat yours. and then some


    1. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 18:09:01 GMT
      llama


    2. Message by: 01/08/2004 18:09:33 GMT
      Deleted


    3. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 01/10/2004 06:29:31 GMT
      Well done St. Francis!


Discussion: Is anyone going to the Calgary competition? By: teamtech13 02/02/2004 23:42:46 GMT
Are any teams going to the Calgary compeition? What teams? Are there any Edmonton teams going? I have heard there are none other than our team. What teams are coming from Alberta?

  1. Message by: JWLonghorns3962 02/02/2004 23:42:46 GMT
    teamtec13,

    JWLonghorns are attending the Calgary FLL Challenge. We are from John Ware Junior High School in Calgary.



Folder: CHINA - [for Chinese members] 12/04/2003 03:29:26 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns China in this folder.

Discussion: REASEARCH HELP By: Marbots 11/14/2003 01:56:11 GMT
OUR TEAM NEEDS INFORMATION ON ICECORES. I wonder if you could possibly direct us to the right spot. PLEASE!!!!

  1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/09/2003 02:33:32 GMT
    whats tnhis for you only have a few weeks left before the tounament so i sugest that you get that robao done soon or else you won't have time to battle.


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 22:13:57 GMT
      hi


    2. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/13/2003 23:17:01 GMT
      If I only had a couple of weeks left to finish my project I would do more reaserch and do more work instead of talking


    3. Message by: SMMS 11/14/2003 01:55:59 GMT
      Check the links under research on this site. It's right in front of you!

      Team SMMS Connecticut USA :) ;)


Discussion: REASEARCH HELP By: Marbots 11/14/2003 17:36:07 GMT
OUR TEAM NEEDS INFORMATION ON ICECORES. I wonder if you could possibly direct us to the right spot. PLEASE!!!!

  1. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:40:33 GMT
    We are doing the same research project. We went to www.askjeeves.com to help us. Try this site and type the question "Is there ice on Mars?" This should give you some help. Good luck!
    Lauren and Adam


    1. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/13/2003 23:20:01 GMT
      Hola! ge thu aseas


    2. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/13/2003 23:22:56 GMT
      ?bola! a it be gust rear robots?


    3. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/14/2003 17:36:07 GMT
      yes :)


Discussion: Legoreds meet Robolions By: Legoreds 12/04/2003 03:29:26 GMT
Hi
good luck and don't Lusch

P.S

The girls love you
and want meet you in kologne

  1. Message by: Blazed Martians 11/24/2003 23:11:41 GMT
    r u guys really from china


    1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/25/2003 19:37:07 GMT
      HELLO EVERYBODY!!!


    2. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/25/2003 19:39:31 GMT
      chong,ching,chang! Those are team members names!


    3. Message by: Rogue Leaders 12/04/2003 03:29:26 GMT
      wat the hell doers choin ching chang mean in english



Folder: DEUTSCHLAND - [for German and Austrian members] 12/17/2003 02:45:06 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns Germany and Austria in this folder.


Folder: Darf der Robo in der Base gedreht werden 11/17/2003 22:19:11 GMT
Hi,
Ich mach es mal kurz! Darf der Robo in der Base gedreht werden?
Unser Team und Ich w*rden uns *ber eine schnelle antwort freuen!

Discussion: Legoreds By: Legoreds 11/17/2003 22:19:11 GMT
Ich d*rft in der Base mit dem Roboter machen was ihr wollt.

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/17/2003 22:19:11 GMT
    HYEWMN JGHUE KGHIGOFLFYURTTU DKFJGIERORT KHIHOOP



Folder: Frankfurt am Main Wettbewerb 11/20/2003 23:43:35 GMT
Hi,
macht ihr den Habitant?




Folder: Was nicht interessiert 11/14/2003 16:26:21 GMT
Dieser Wettbewerb hat nichts mit logik zu tun und macht einfach was ihr wollt. Also sch*n dumm programieren und nichts kluges einbauen.

Discussion: Legoreds By: Legoreds 11/14/2003 16:26:21 GMT
Wer hat gesagt das wir nur dumm programmieren.


Folder: wie viele punkte habt ihr schon 11/15/2003 13:14:51 GMT
hey an alle ich schreibe gerade aus einem amerikanischen team
das ist ganz cool wir haben schon 270 punkte in 2 min. schreibt mir.
wir werden siegen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Discussion: punkte By: Legoreds 11/15/2003 13:14:51 GMT
ihr gewinnt das ich nicht lache
wir holen in 2,5 minuten 339 punkte

  1. Message by: marstronauten 11/03/2003 15:48:28 GMT
    hi ich hab mal eine Frage an euch wer kommt eigentlich ins Finale. wie viel punkte habt ihr jetzt schon?
    mfg
    Mario (Marstronauten)


    1. Message by: Legoreds 11/04/2003 08:06:15 GMT
      Immer noch 339 Punkte unser Programm steht und ihr?
      Das Fragen wir gerade bei der Discusion "Finale"


    2. Message by: team1029 11/12/2003 14:33:41 GMT
      was haltet ihr von dem Mist mit den designpunkten ?????????
      Obwohl doch nicht so schlecht da k*nnen wir ein paar Punkte holen (-:


    3. Message by: Legoreds 11/15/2003 13:14:51 GMT
      design punkte sind cool


Discussion: Legoreds By: Legoreds 10/30/2003 16:33:36 GMT
Das dachten wir auch aber wir haben wenn uns kein Fehler passiert 330 Punkte
Tretet ihr in Deutschland an? Wenn ja dann wo? Frankfurt?

Discussion: FLL Forum Online! By: HoT1000 10/20/2003 15:11:53 GMT
Hallo FLL Teams,
herzlich willkommen im FLL Forum. Habt ihr bereits mit den Vorbereitungen begonnen? Ist das FLL Challenge Set bei Euch angekommen?

Wir w*nschen Euch viel Spa* mit FIRST LEGO League!
HANDS on TECHNOLOGY e.V.

  1. Message by: ggs1053 09/10/2003 15:38:18 GMT
    Hallo

    Alle Unterlagen sind da. Hat prima geklappt. Die Vorbereitungen starten. Das Team *bt flei*ig.
    Unsere Homepage ist in Arbeit. Der Link folgt.
    Beste Gr**e aus Lingen (Ems)


    1. Message by: it-cce 09/10/2003 15:51:56 GMT
      Hallo miteinander,

      das Challenge Set ist heute bei uns angekommen. Wir sind gespannt auf die Aufgabe. Am Freitag, 19. Sept., trifft sich unser Team das erstemal.

      Auf einen guten, spannenden Wettkampf!

      "it-CCE - Die Mindtoren"

      http://it-cce.de


    2. Message by: Discovery 1005 09/10/2003 18:04:34 GMT
      Allerherzichsten Dank f*r die prompte Hilfe. Dann kann es ja auch weitergehen. Ich habe *brigens auch 4 oder sogar 5 M*dchen in dem Team.

      D. Hennecke


    3. Message by: m.a.r.s.1041 09/11/2003 08:29:23 GMT
      Hallo

      Gr**e aus dem *u*ersten S*den(Bodenseeraum).
      Auch wir haben das Challenge Set erhalten und m*chten uns auf diesem Wege herzlich daf*r bedanken. Hoffen auf gute Zusammenarbeit.

      H.Stengel vom Team m.a.r.s. (mobile advanced robot systems)


    4. Message by: RoboCops1031 09/11/2003 12:25:34 GMT
      Hallo!
      Die Erfurter RoboCops gr**en alle anderen FLL-Teams und w*nschen viel Spa* beim T*fteln! Wir sind schon gespannt auf die Aufgabe und legen am 16.9 los!

      Die RoboCops


    5. Message by: Die_Hirschen1008 09/11/2003 15:31:04 GMT
      Hallo!
      Wir bauen seit heute das Challange Set zusammen. Montag erstes Treffen, Dienstag geht die Post ab! ;-)

      Die Hirschen


    6. Message by: Marsianer 09/11/2003 16:09:45 GMT
      Hallo Deutschland, servus *sterreich!
      Wir bauen seit heute 11.09.2003 das Challenge Set.
      Viel Gl*ck beim Programmieren und Bauen. Wir sehen uns beim Wettkampf.
      Die ComBioniks


    7. Message by: marstronauten 09/15/2003 19:19:45 GMT
      Hy Deutschland und *sterreich! Wir haben am 12.09.03 mit dem
      Set begonnen!! Alles Gute beim Wettkampf!!!!
      Die Marstronauten


    8. Message by: Roboticgirls1033 09/16/2003 18:19:24 GMT
      Viele Gr**e und gro*es Daumen dr*cken an alle Teams.

      Heute sind wir schon kr*ftig am arbeiten, haben auch schon einige Ideen wie wir die Aufgaben umsetzen wollen. Auf jeden Fall wird`s spannend.
      In unserem Team sind *brigens nur M*dels...


    9. Message by: nonnbots1011 09/16/2003 20:00:31 GMT
      Hallo FLL Teams,
      Viele Gr**e zun*chst mal und viel Spa* beim Wettbewerb.
      Die Aufgaben sind raus und ich habe gleich mal ein paar Fragen zum Ablauf. Wenn ich das richtig verstanden habe, dann haben wir 2.5 Minuten, um die Aufgaben zu l*sen. Wie viele dieser Matches gibt es f*r jedes Team? M*ssen alle Aufgaben in dieser Zeit erledigt sein oder kann man sich das einteilen auf sp*tere Matches?

      Ich st*bere noch was die Unterlagen. Vielleicht steht es dort genauer geschrieben.


    10. Message by: HoT2003 09/17/2003 11:32:45 GMT
      Liebe FLL Teams,

      ich antworte auf die Frage von den "nonnbots": jedes Team kann in drei Runden (sogenannten Matches) starten und die Missionen nach einer eigenen Strategie l*sen. Dabei m*ssen nicht alle Missionen angegangen werden - ihr k*nnt Euch auf Eure Strategie konzentrieren. Die h*chste Punktzahl aus diesen drei Matches z*hlt dann f*r die Qualifizierung f*r die n*chsten Runden. Ihr habt also dreimal die Chance, einen guten, punktreichen Run zu erzielen.

      Schaut doch ab und an in die Rubrik "Fragen und Antworten" auf den FLL Webseiten. Dort werden h*ufig gestellte Fragen beantwortet.

      Viel Spa* am Gusev-Krater w*nscht Euch
      Euer Team der FLL Deutschland + *sterreich


    11. Message by: marstronauten 09/18/2003 15:46:46 GMT
      Hi an alle teams wie gehts auch habt ihr schon flei*ig gebaut ? wir bauen flei*ig an den robotern


    12. Message by: marstronauten 09/18/2003 15:49:21 GMT
      Hi, an alle Teams aus *sterreich und Deutschland!
      Wir wollten fragen ob wir alle Forschungsaufgaben beantworten m*ssen oder nur eine von den allen?
      Ciao und noch sch*ne Gr**e aus Telfs!
      Die Marstronauten.
      ^_^


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/20/2003 16:59:55 GMT
        Hallo Marstronauten,

        so wie ich das verstanden habe, muss man sich f*r eine der "Roboter-Aufgaben", die beschrieben sind entscheiden, also zum Beispiel :"Gusev Krater Landeplatz", "Die Eiskerne", "MAV Launcher", ...
        Und bei dieser Aufgabe einscheidet man sich dann f*r einen der Forschungsvorschl*ge oder denkt sich einen neuen dazu aus und bearbeitet diesen.
        Ich hoffe, ihr habt verstanden, wie ich das mein'.
        Viel Spa* beim Forschen!
        Eure Desiwiniwasitu (Andrea)!


    13. Message by: Roboticgirls 09/18/2003 17:57:15 GMT
      Hallo ihr FLL-Mitglieder!
      Ich wollt mal fragen ob man die 180*C Module ankleben soll. Denn wenn man die wirklich ankleben muss, wie soll man dann die 180*C Module mit den 90*C Modul verbinden? Weil es sind dann ja alle angeklebt.

      Ich wei* nun nich ob das wirklich so drin steht, doch ich hab das so verstanden. Vielleicht k*nnt ihr mir ja weiter helfen. W*re wirklich sehr nett von euch!


    14. Message by: marstronauten 09/19/2003 21:08:56 GMT
      die 180* Module muss man durch magneten verbinden


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/20/2003 14:54:52 GMT
        Wir haben die gleiche Frage, wie die Roboticgirls, n*mlich, ob man die beiden 180* Module, wie es in der Anleitung steht, wirklich in der Base ankleben muss. Dann kann man die Aufgabe n*mlich gar nicht l*sen. Uns ist aber klar, dass es die Aufgabe ist, die Module durch Magneten zu verbinden. Wer kann uns diese Frage beantworten?

        (Andrea, Annalena, Anni, Moritz)


    15. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/20/2003 22:19:15 GMT
      Hallo FLL!
      Wir haben noch ein paar Fragen:

      1.Welche Motoren darf man denn beim Wettkampf nun verwenden?
      2. Wird die Sandd*ne beim Wettkampf festgeklebt bzw. wie weit darf sie verrutscht werden, ohne das es Strafpunkte gibt?

      (i.A.Annalena)


    16. Message by: Pungschter Roboteam1038 09/22/2003 14:46:21 GMT
      Gude!
      Wir Pungschter Roboteam gr**en alle anderen FFL-Teams und w*nschen allen viel Spa* beim zusammen bauen des Roboters!

      MFG

      Pungschter Roboteam


    17. Message by: interrobostorms1040 09/22/2003 15:35:10 GMT
      Hallo liebe Teams

      Auch wir haben uns inzwischen im Forum angemeldet.
      Herzliche Gr**e aus Lienz in Osttirol in *sterreich.
      Wir freuen uns sehr mit euch in aller Welt zusammen arbeiten zu k*nnen.

      Alles gute w*nscht euch die
      interrobostorms.


    18. Message by: interrobostorms1040 09/22/2003 15:41:27 GMT
      WICHTIGE FRAGEN - K*nnt ihr uns bitte helfen!!!!!!!!

      Muss der Roboter bei jeder Mission von der Base starten?

      Kann der Tisch aus Metall sein?

      Sind die Hindernisse selbst zu bauen?

      K*nnen die Bauteile der Hindernisse f*r den Roboter verwendet werden?

      Kann man die Teile der Hindernisse f*r den Roboter verwenden?

      lg die
      Interrobostorms


    19. Message by: HoT2003 09/22/2003 17:39:25 GMT
      WICHTIGE ANTWORTEN:
      Der Roboter mu* bei jedem Missionsversuch aus der Base starten.

      Der Tisch kann aus allen mgl. Materialien sein, Hauptsache ist, dass er den Tischma*en entspricht.

      Die Hindernisse, die sogen. Aufgabenkulisse, ist von jedem Team selbst zusammenzubauen.

      Die Bauteile sollten nicht f*r die Roboter verwendet werden. Ihr gef*hrdet damit die Richtigkeit Eurer Vorbereitungen.

      Wie meint ihr die letzte Frage?

      Liebe Gr**e.
      HANDS on TECHNOLOGY


    20. Message by: HoT2003 09/22/2003 17:42:47 GMT
      180* Versuchsmodule NICHT festkleben - bitte lest Euch die Angaben genau durch!
      Die Sand*ne ebenfalls NICHT festkleben! Sonst w*re es ja keine echte Sandd*ne - Sand ger*t schnell in Bewegung.


    21. Message by: Roboticgirls 09/22/2003 17:57:21 GMT
      Hallo an alle,
      wir haben einen Tag, nachdem wir die Frage mit den 180*-Modulen hier gestellt hatten, Dateien von FLL bekommen wo nochmal genau drin steht, dass diese Module NICHT fest geklebt werden sollen. War wohl ein Denk-/Schreibfehler auf der Seite.
      Viele Gr**e an alle
      Die Roboticgirls


    22. Message by: TeamGGS1053 09/22/2003 19:33:21 GMT
      Hallo & Frage!

      Ist es egal wie der Roboter konstruiert wird und wieviele Teile man verwendet? (ausgenommen die Angaben *ber Elektronische Teile).
      Kann man also aus dem Mars Exploration Set Bauteile nehmen oder ist nur das Challenge Set die Grundlage.

      Beste Gr**e TeamGGS aus Lingen


    23. Message by: Professor Pi*s Kids 1014 09/23/2003 10:13:08 GMT
      *nderung der Aufgabe "*ffne die Startrampe"

      Hallo,

      nun v*llig irritiert,

      kann der Roboter nun einfach von der Plattform genommen werden und erneut aus der Base starten z.B. mit seinen Versorgungspaketen.

      Das w*rde aber auch immer hei*en, es g*be einen Strafpunkt, da mit der Hand ber*hrt.

      Allerdings w*re es auch so, wenn wir die komplette Rampe runterfahren w*rden, m*sste bereits etwas mitgenommen werden an Ladung (Versorgungspakte oder Kanister), da wir ja von der Base dann ein ganzes St*ck entfernt w*ren, wenn wir die Rampe verlassen haben.(man m*sste dann den Roboter auch in die Base von Hand setzen, um mit der L*sung der anderen Missionen beginnen zu k*nnen).
      Ganz eindeutig finden wir das nun nicht. Wie sind nun die Regeln.

      Tsch*ss euer Team Professor Pi*s Kids


    24. Message by: HoT2003 09/24/2003 09:59:15 GMT
      Hallo 1014,

      die Plattform ist eine alternative Startposition zur Base, nachdem die Rampe vollst*ndig vom Roboter ge*ffnet wurde (vgl. "*ffnet die Startrampe"). Alternativ bedeuted: nachdem die Rampe ordnungsgem** ge*ffnet wurde, ist die Plattform gleich bzw. ein Teil der Base und unterliegt den Regelungen der Base.

      *berlegt Euch nocheinmal Eure Ausgangspostition und die Strategie f*r Euren Roboter - die Strategien stehen nicht in den Regeln :-) Es gibt sicherlich viele M*glichkeiten, den Roboter auf die Missionen zu schicken, ohne ihn mit der Hand zur*ck holen zu m*ssen.

      Viele gute Ideen w*nscht Euch
      HANDS on TECHNOLOGY e.V.


    25. Message by: interrobostorms1040 09/24/2003 15:30:06 GMT
      Wichtige Zusatzfragen: Optional Leuchtstoffr*hren: K*nnt ihr uns bitte helfen!!!!!!!!

      a) Wieviele Leuchtstoffr*hren braucht es? Einfach oder doppelt
      b) 40 Watt * Die Standardlampe hat nur 36 Watt. Die 40 Watt Lampe ist wesentlich teurer * was tun ?
      c) Soll in der Lampe ein Reflektor eingebaut sein?

      lg die
      Interrobostorms

      --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    26. Message by: ADS1063 09/24/2003 19:46:02 GMT
      Frage zum Ablauf !

      Wie l*uft der Wettbewerb genau ab. Sollte der Roboter alle Aufgaben in 2,5 Minuten schaffen.
      Oder verteilt man die Aufgaben auf die drei Runden?

      Wie kann ein Missionsversuch misslingen und wie gehts dann weiter.

      Aus der Aufgabenstellung und dem Regelwerk werden wir nicht ganz schlau. W*re sch*n, wenn jemand mit Erfahrung ein bissel erz*hlen k*nnte...

      Ansonsten w*nschen wir allen viel Spass beim T*ffteln und Denken !!

      Gr**e


    27. Message by: Pungschter Roboteam1038 09/25/2003 14:30:48 GMT
      Hallo FLL Teams,
      wir haben hier ein paar Fragen und hoffen das ihr uns helfen k**nt!

      1)Stehen alle Hindernisse bzw. Aufgaben alle gleichzeitig auf dem Feld oder werden sie f*r die jeweilige Aufgabe aufgestellt?
      2)Genaue Angaben f*r Zeit? Hat man insgesammt 150 sekunden oder f*r jede Aufgabe???

      Viele Gr**e

      Pungschter Roboteam


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/26/2003 16:16:19 GMT
        Hallo Pungschter Roboteam,

        bei eurer ersten Frage kann ich euch leider nicht helfen, aber die Antwort auf die zweite hab' ich -hoff' ich richtig -herausgefunden:
        Jedes Team spielt 3 Matches gegen verschiedene Gegner. Jedes Match dauert 2,5 Minuten. In dieser Zeit m*sst ihr soviele Aufgaben wie m*glich erf*llen oder euch auf einzelne Aufgaben konzentrieren. Bei jedem Match wird die erreichte Punktzahl aufgeschrieben und nach drei Runden (eine Runde ist fertig, wenn jedes Team einmal angetreten ist) bekommt jedes Team soviele Punkte als Endpunkte aufgeschrieben, wie es in seinem besten Versuch (von den dreien) erreicht hat. Also hat man insgesamt 150 Sekunden, aber drei Versuche. Ich hoffe, ich hab' das verst*ndlich erkl*rt.
        Viele Gr**e
        Andrea


    28. Message by: TeamGGS1053 09/26/2003 10:58:46 GMT
      Hab ne Frag!!
      Muss man die Eiskerne auf die startrampe zur*ck bringen???????


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/26/2003 15:40:31 GMT
        Hallo Team GGS,

        es steht in den Aufgaben, dass man die Eiskerne in die Base zur*ckbringen muss. Wenn ihr die Startrampe heruntergeklappt, z*hlt die ja auch zur Base, also k*nnt ihr die Eiskerne auch dahin bringen. Ich glaube zwar, dass es einfacher w*re sie unten in der Base abzuladen, aber das k*nnt ihr ja machen, wie ihr wollt.

        Viele Gr**e
        Andrea


    29. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 09/26/2003 15:54:55 GMT
      Nochmal zu unserer Motorenfrage:
      Man darf ja 3 Motoren einsetzen. Gibt es da eine Regel, welche Motoren erlaubt sind, oder darf man einfach alle einsetzen, solange es nur drei sind und alle von LEGO sind? Also zum Beispiel gibt es in dem Kasten "Lego Mindstorms for Schools" Motoren mit der Nummer 43362, die langsamer drehen als Motoren (in anderen Sets) mit der Nummer 2838. Au*erdem w*rden wir gerne wissen, ob auch Mikromotoren erlaubt sind.
      Wir w*rden uns *ber eine Antwort freuen!
      Desiwiniwasitu
      (Andrea)


    30. Message by: Marsianer 10/08/2003 14:55:14 GMT
      Hallo ihr aus der Informatik AG!
      Wir von der Dr.Aloys Wei*enbach Hauptschule k*nnen eure frage beantworten.
      Man muss die Eiskerne nur zur*ck in die Base bringen.

      MFG
      Die Marsianer


    31. Message by: marstronauten 10/09/2003 16:14:51 GMT
      Hallo an alle Teams! Eine Frage: Kann man die Anh*ngkupplung beim Rover drehen wie man will oder nicht? Hoffen auf schnelle Antwort! Danke im Voraus die Marstronauten


    32. Message by: 10/09/2003 16:42:48 GMT
      Deleted


    33. Message by: marstronauten 10/09/2003 16:43:34 GMT
      Entschuldigung noch eine Frage: Wenn man den Rover zur Base bringt, kann man dann die Sandd*ne einfach mitziehen, denn diese ist ja nicht befestigt oder nicht. Viele Gr**e aus Telfs in Tirol Die Marstronauten


      1. Message by: nonnbots1011 10/13/2003 19:22:51 GMT
        hallo, wir haben die sandd*ne befestigt, so dass man sie nicht mehr bewegen kann. ist das ewta falsch? gru*


        1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 10/17/2003 16:04:14 GMT
          Liebe nonnbots,

          In der Anleitung steht, dass man die Sandd*ne NICHT befestigen soll!!!!
          "Ebenfalls NICHT sichern. Einfach auf der entsprechenden Stelle aufstellen (der Rover kommt auf die Spitze)"
          D.h: Ihr M*sst die Sandd*ne wieder losmachen!

          Viel Gl*ck und Gr**e

          Desiwiniwasitu (Florian)


    34. Message by: Marsexplorers1030 10/10/2003 20:49:33 GMT
      Hallo. Wir sind die Mars Explorers und m*chten wissen, was die Verbindung der 180* Module *ber Haltegabeln bedeutet.
      Kann das jemand erkl*ren?
      Ciao


    35. Message by: Chaos Designer 1026 10/14/2003 08:19:28 GMT
      Hi, wir sind die Chaos Designer. Das mit dem Rover ist ein wahres Problem, da der Roboter eher die D*ne als den Rover verschiebt. Trotzdem ist es verboten die D*ne zu befestigen.

      mfg
      Chaos Designer


    36. Message by: Marsianer 10/14/2003 15:22:20 GMT
      Hallo an die Hot 2003!
      K*nnt ihr uns sagen ob man beim Rover die Sandd*ne mit*in die Base bringen kann?
      Bitte schnell antworten!

      Die Marsianer


    37. Message by: Marsianer 10/14/2003 15:42:12 GMT
      Hallo wir haben ja eben gefragt ob man die sandd*ne mit in
      die base nehmen darf.
      bitte alle Teams antworten.
      Gru* die Marsianer


    38. Message by: otto1022 10/16/2003 14:24:31 GMT
      Servus an alle! Wir sind`s, Otto`s Enkel.
      Wir kommen jetzt ganz sch*n in Zeitdruck, wir fangen heute erst an zu programmieren.
      CU soon Lena und Verena in Vertretung f*r Trixi, Steffi, J*rgen und Herrn Bacher.


    39. Message by: HoT2003 10/20/2003 15:11:53 GMT
      Hallo Marsianer. In den Regeln spricht nichts dagegen.


    40. Message by: GMT


Discussion: Neue Regel f*r die Startrampe By: desiwiniwasitu 10/06/2003 21:45:01 GMT
Die alte Version der Regel lautet: "Der Roboter mu* die Rampe *ffnen und muss *ber die Rampe die Plattform verlassen",
in der neuen hei*t es "muss sowohl die Rampe als auch die Plattform verlassen haben, bevor der Missionsversuch beendet ist."

Verstehe ich das richtig, dass der Roboter nach der neuen Regel von der Plattform theoretisch auch springen, fliegen oder st*rzen d*rfte?

Katja Mayer

  1. Message by: HoTSupport 09/23/2003 11:17:59 GMT
    Hallo Katja,

    die alte Regel besagt, dass der Roboter die Plattform *ber die Rampe zu verlassen hat. Das hie*e ja der Roboter hat theoretisch die Plattform bereits verlassen, auch wenn er noch auf der Rampe steht.
    Die neue Regel erkl*rt die alte Regel lediglich etwas genauer, n*mlich dass der Roboter die Plattform *BER die Rampe und schlie*lich auch noch die Rampe zu verlassen hat.

    Ciao,
    Mirko

    Hands on Technology e.V. Support


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Discussion: Roboterbau By: TeamGGS1053 09/26/2003 10:59:51 GMT
Hallo & Frage!

Ist es egal wie der Roboter konstruiert wird und wieviele Teile man verwendet? (ausgenommen die Angaben *ber Elektronische Teile).
Kann man also aus dem Mars Exploration Set Bauteile nehmen oder ist nur das Challenge Set die Grundlage.

Beste Gr**e TeamGGS aus Lingen

  1. Message by: HoT2003 09/24/2003 09:33:45 GMT
    Hallo Team GGS1053,

    f*r den Roboter sind die zugelassenen elektronischen Bauteile siehe "Wettbewerbsregeln" erlaubt. Ihr k*nnt zus*tzlich zur Konstruktion beliebig viele/wenig LEGO Bausteine benutzen, egal aus welchem Set sie sind.

    Viel Spa* weiterhin w*nscht Euch
    HANDS on TECHNOLOGY e.V.


    1. Message by: Pungschter Roboteam1038 09/25/2003 14:09:45 GMT
      Hallo und Frage!
      Wir gr**en alle Teams und haben hier ein paar Fragen!

      1)Stehen alle Hindernisse bzw. Aufgaben alle gleichzeitig auf dem Feld oder werden sie f*r die jeweilige Aufgabe aufgestellt?

      2)Genaue Angaben f*r Zeit?

      Wir hoffen ihr k*nnt uns weiter helfen!

      Viele Gr**en von den Pungschter Roboteam


    2. Message by: 09/26/2003 10:59:51 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Stand des Roboters auf der Base beim Neustart oder R*ckkehr By: Discovery 1005 11/25/2003 19:06:17 GMT
Hallo, alle miteinander, unser team hat die folgende Frage an die Wettbewerbsleitung: 1)Es ist uns klar, wenn man den Robo nach einer Mission wie kann er dann in der Base stehen?Angenommen, man hat ein etwas ausladenderes Teil irgendwo angebaut, muss er dann auch komplett mit (!) Anbau auf der Base beim neuen Start stehen oder nur der Kernrobo? 2) Der Robo f*hrt nach einer Aufgabenl*sung in die Base zur*ck, z.B. hat er die Eiskerne geholt und er will zur*ck, um sie abzuladen. Muss dann der komplette Robo mit Anbau, mit allen Eiskernen irgendwo drauf auf der Base stehen oder gilt der Robo als "zur*ck in der Base" wenn irgendein Teil von dem Originalrobo in der Base ist, z.B. er ist mit einem Rad in der Base , oder muss er komplett drin stehen - oder reicht auch irgendein gr**eres angebautes TEil ?

  1. Message by: HoTSupport 10/08/2003 09:07:16 GMT
    Hallo,
    zur Startposition des Roboters:
    der Roboter muss komplett, d.h. mit allen drum und dran in der Base sein. Nicht nur der RCX, sondern das Gesamte Konstrukt.
    Ebenso muss der Roboter auch am Ende einer Mission wieder in der Base stehen.

    |Hands On Technology : Support|


    1. Message by: HoTSupport 10/08/2003 09:10:53 GMT
      Sorry,
      kleiner Fehler von mir:
      Es reicht, wenn der Roboter die Base nach einer Mission wenigstens teilweise erreicht!

      |Hands On Technology : Support|


    2. Message by: 11/25/2003 19:06:17 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Abladen der Eiskerne ? By: Discovery 1005 11/24/2003 23:13:19 GMT


  1. Message by: interrobostorms1040 10/16/2003 13:15:15 GMT
    Hallo ihr da drausen

    Wir wollten nur fragen ob die Eiskerns stehender abgeladen werden m*ssen oder sie liegen k*nnen?

    alles Gute die

    Interrobostorms


    1. Message by: Legoreds 10/27/2003 14:29:10 GMT
      hi
      das ist so etwas von egal
      nat*rlich m*ssen die nicht stehend abgeladen werden
      das ist fast unm*glich
      bei uns liegen sie auch
      wieviele punkte holt ihr ungef*hr


    2. Message by: Blazed Martians 11/24/2003 23:12:38 GMT
      hi hagas gan sdfh lsddf


    3. Message by: Blazed Martians 11/24/2003 23:13:19 GMT
      das ist so etwas von egal
      nat*rlich m*ssen die nicht stehend abgeladen werden
      das ist fast unm*glich
      bei uns liegen sie auch
      wieviele punkte holt ihr ungef*hr

      --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Discussion: Abladen der Eiskerne ? By: Discovery 1005 11/05/2003 17:50:57 GMT
Hallo, alle miteinander, noch eine Frage bez*glich der Eiskerne. Wenn der Robo die Kerne geladen hat und zur*ckkehrt in die Base, reicht es dann, wenn der Robo ganz oder ein Teil von ihm in der Base steht, so dass wir dann die Eiskerne per Hand- ohne dass das Strafpunkte gibt- abladen k*nnen oder m*ssen die Eiskerne von irgendeiner Vorrichtung am Robo selbst abgeladen werden? *brigens- wir haben eine Menge Spass und viele Ideen, es ist ein cooler Wettbewerb.
Euer Discoveryteam aus Herten.

  1. Message by: HoT2003 10/06/2003 15:54:50 GMT
    Hallo Discovery, es reicht aus, wenn der Roboter die Base teilweise erreicht hat. Sobald ein Teil des Roboters *ber die Base-Line gefahren ist, k*nnt ihr per Hand abladen.

    Weiterhin viel Spa*.
    HANDS on TECHNOLOGY e.V.


    1. Message by: marstronauten 10/31/2003 12:22:36 GMT
      Wir haben eine Frage: Wir ziehen zwei Eisringe mit einem Stab in die Base! Der stab ist aber ganz sch*n lang, deshalb ist der Roboter und der Stab in der Base aber die Eisringe die wir mitziehen liegen mit dem unteren teil noch ein kleines St*ck au*erhalb der Base!!! Darf das sein oder nicht???????????????????????????? Bitte eine Antwort, es ist dringend!!!! Danke die Marstronauten


    2. Message by: Legoreds 11/05/2003 17:50:57 GMT
      Hi
      wir hoffen das es erlaubt ist da wir es auch so machen.
      In den Regeln steht das nur ein Teil des Roboters in der Base sein muss also m*sste es erlaubt sein. *brigen lasst den Roboter doch mal drehen wen er 2 Eiskerne (wir nennen sie scared Rings) geholt hat vielleicht holt er dann noch den 3. Legoreds


Discussion: Position des Robos By: RoboCops1031 10/30/2003 17:57:48 GMT
Hallo FLL-Teams!
Wir m*chten mal wissen, ob der Roboter nach jeder ausgef*hrten Aufgabe zur*ck zur Base muss! Das w*rde ja bedeuten, dass wir die einzelnen Aufgaben sowieso nicht miteinander verbinden und somit keine Strategie entwickeln k*nnten.
Muss der Robo zum Ende des Matches im Krater stehen oder kann er sich auch woanders befinden?
Die Regeln sind doch etwas verwirrend! Wir hoffen, es kann uns jemand helfen!
Die Erfurter RoboCops
www.roboticsclub.de


  1. Message by: nonnbots1011 09/30/2003 18:52:12 GMT
    hi, der roboter muss nicht nach jeder aufgabe zur base zurueck. gru*


    1. Message by: Discovery 1005 10/01/2003 20:07:55 GMT
      Hallo, roboticsclub, der Roboter muss nicht nach jeder Aufgabe in die Base zur*ck, wir k*nnen auch mehrere Aufgaben hintereinander durchf*hren und dann erst zu einem Umbau zur Base zur*ck. So haben wir die Aufgaben verstanden. Wenn der Robo am Ende im Krater steht, dann gibt es doch 39 Punkte und das ist doch eine Menge. Mit der Rampe zusammen h*tten wir dann schon 78 Punkte. Das ist schon eine Menge, denken wir. Noch viel Spa* .
      Discoveryteam Herten


    2. Message by: Legoreds 10/27/2003 14:32:04 GMT
      hi
      nein m*sst ihr nicht
      das gibt sehr viele punkte also ist das empfehlenswert
      wieviele punkte holt ihr so


    3. Message by: m.a.r.s.1041 10/30/2003 17:36:24 GMT
      Servus und Hallo,
      wir hamn da mal ne Frage:
      Darf der Roboter mit einzelnen Teilen *ber die Kante der Startrampe stehen?
      Wir hoffen auf schnelle Antwort.
      Euer M.A.R.S.-Team.


    4. Message by: Legoreds 10/30/2003 17:57:48 GMT
      Wir glauben hier f*r gibt es die gleiche Regel wie f*r den Rest der Base. Das bedeutet "Nein" aber wir sind uns nicht sicher. Schreibt doch mal an einen von Hands on Technologie


Discussion: Beleuchtung By: interrobostorms1040 10/17/2003 19:59:03 GMT
Wichtige Zusatzfragen: Optional Leuchtstoffr*hren: K*nnt ihr uns bitte helfen!!!!!!!!

a) Wieviele Leuchtstoffr*hren braucht es? Einfach oder doppelt

b) 40 Watt * Die Standardlampe hat nur 36 Watt. Die 40 Watt Lampe ist wesentlich teurer * was tun ?

c) Soll in der Lampe ein Reflektor eingebaut sein?

lg die
Interrobostorms

  1. Message by: Discovery 1005 10/01/2003 20:10:31 GMT
    Hallo, interrobostorms, die Beschreibungen kommen doch aus den USA. Wir haben uns n*mlich auch schon erkundigt. Deshalb auch die anderen Angaben. Wir haben unseren Tisch ohne Lampen obendr*ber gebaut, das Licht kommt von der normalen Deckenlampe in der Schule. Das geht auch. Vor allem ist dann der Tisch viel billiger.
    Discoveryteam


    1. Message by: it-cce 10/17/2003 19:59:03 GMT
      Hi Discovery 1005
      das haben wir auch versucht. Das Problem stellen nur die Lichtsensoren dar: sie reagieren sehr empfindlich auf den Winkel aus dem das licht kommt(haben wir leider festellen m*ssen). Dh wenn beim Wettbewerb doch Lampen aufgestellt werden kann es passieren dass die Lichtsensoren nicht mehr richtig funktionieren bzw umprogrammiert werden m*ssen.

      MfG das it-CCE team


Discussion: 180* Versuchsmodul By: The Rockys 11/05/2003 17:56:37 GMT
Hallo ihr da,
wir haben eine Frage, die uns richtig nervt.In der Anleitung steht, dass man die 180* Versuchsmodule "aufkleben und am besten irgendwo in der Base platzieren soll." Wir sind uns nicht sicher, weil man die 180* Versuchsmodule an das 90* Versuchsmodul schieben muss.
Danke f*r die Hilfe im Voraus.

The Rockys

  1. Message by: Discovery 1005 10/01/2003 20:13:29 GMT
    Hallo ihr ebenfalls, wir k*nnen uns nicht vorstellen, dass die Module aufgeklebt werden sollen. Wir m*ssen sie doch an das 90* Modul schieben, eventuell sogar in V-Form. Das geht doch nur, wenn man sie wirklich verschieben kann. Die Frage w*re, ob das 90iger Modul angeklebt werden muss. Aber wir meinen, dass es auch so geht, aufgrund der Magneten. Noch viel Spa*
    Discoveryteam


    1. Message by: The Rockys 10/02/2003 09:09:55 GMT
      Yo Danke f*r die Antwort.
      Das 90* Modul sol man laut Anleitung aufkleben, denn wenn es losse ist, wird es schwieriger die anderen Module dran zu schieben.
      Noch mal Danke

      und Tsch*ss

      `The Rockys* aus Rockenhausen


    2. Message by: HoT2003 10/03/2003 11:07:44 GMT
      180* NICHT aufkleben - Fehler in der *bersetzung. Die Datei ist korrigert, danke f*r den Tipp. Das 90* Modul jedoch mu* festgeklebt werden. Dann geht es wesentlich einfacher.


    3. Message by: m.a.r.s.1041 10/08/2003 13:48:07 GMT
      Darf man nach dem Beenden einer Mission die f*r diese Aufgabe ben*tigten Module vom Spielfeld von Hand entfernen?
      (Bsp.:Die 180* und 90* Module, nach erf*lltter Aufgabe.)
      Wir w*rden uns *ber eine schnelle Antwort freuen.
      Euer M.A.R.S.-Team


    4. Message by: HoTSupport 10/09/2003 17:54:57 GMT
      Hi, M.A.R.S.-Team,

      alle Elemente bleiben bei jeder Aufgabe auf dem Spielfeld.
      Lediglich die Eisw*rfel verschwinden vom Feld, wenn Ihr sie eingesammelt habt.
      Zudem werden die Felsen noch vom Feld entfernt, wenn Ihr einen Fehler macht oder sie einsammelt.

      Ciao,
      | Hands on Technology : Support |


    5. Message by: it-cce 10/23/2003 19:32:02 GMT
      Hi HoTSupport
      ich erinnere mich daran irgendwo in der Anleitung gelesen zu haben dass manche Teile nach Missionsende vom Schiedsrichter entfernt werden d*rfen. F*r welche gilt das? also wenn die Wohnmodue u. andere Teile damit nicht gemeint sind dann bleiben nur noch die "Sandk*rner" von der Solarstation. Sonst darf nichts entfernt werden?

      MfG das it-CCE


    6. Message by: marstronauten 10/27/2003 16:29:02 GMT
      Hi! Wir haben eine Frage: In der Aufgabe steht, dass man die Versuchsmodule via magnet oder mit den Haltegabeln verbunden kann? Mit welchen Haltegabeln bitte???????? Hoffen auf schnelle Antwort!!!
      Die Marstronauten aus Tirol


    7. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/03/2003 14:49:27 GMT
      Hallo Marstronauten,

      Wir haben ein paar Fragen, die wir hatten direkt an die Leute von HANDS on TECHNOLOGY e.V. (FLL@hands-on-technology.org) geschrieben. Das solltet ihr mit wichtigen Fragen auch tun. Die antworten superschnell und geben wirklich konkrete Antworten! Aber jetzt zu eurer Frage. Durch die Antworten von FLL habe ich herausgefunden, dass mit "Haltegabeln" einfach das Plastik um die Magneten herum gemeint ist. Wenn es also hei*t, die Module sollen sich mit den Haltegebeln verbinden, dann hei*t das, dass die Module auch als verbunden gelten, wenn sich die blanken Magneten nicht ber*hren, sich daf*r aber die zwei plastik "Haltegabeln" ber*hren und die Magneten sich anziehen. Ich hoffe, ich hab' das verst*ndlich erkl*rt.
      Viele Gr**e und viel Spa* beim Programmieren und Bauen!

      Andrea (von Desiwiniwasitu)


    8. Message by: marstronauten 11/03/2003 15:16:23 GMT
      Hi desiwiniwasitu!!!

      Danke Andrea, das war sehr verst*ndlich!!
      Daaaannnnnnnnnnkkkkkkkkeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      Martin (Marstronauten)


    9. Message by: Legoreds 11/05/2003 17:56:37 GMT
      Diese Frage stellen wir uns auch die ganze Zeit. Wir haben mal gedacht damit ist gemeint das sie sich nur ber*hren brauchen. Aber das ist auch Quatsch.


Discussion: Hallo By: southwilts56 10/29/2003 01:30:51 GMT
Wir sind das Southwilts56 von England. Vielen Gluck!

  1. Message by: OfM1077 10/08/2003 11:23:41 GMT
    Meine Frage ist, ob der Roboter nach jeder Mission in die Base zur*ck kehren muss, oder ob er dann mit der Hand zur*ck geholt werden darf und die Zeit nach beendigung der Aufgabe gestoppt wird.

    Das Team OfM aus Meiendorf


    1. Message by: HoT2003 10/20/2003 15:14:00 GMT
      Hallo OfM1077: Der Roboter mu* nicht nach jeder Mission in die Base zur*ckkehren. Er kann es aber, dies mu* er jedoch eigenst*ndig tuen, bei R*ckholen mit der Hand gibt es Strafpunkte. Die Zeit l*uft durch, 2,5 Minuten hat jedes Team Zeit, dannach ist die Zeit abgelaufen. Viel Spa*!


    2. Message by: BelieverBots 2440 10/24/2003 07:44:31 GMT
      Hallo! Wir sind die BelieverBots 2440 von Alaska! Vielen Gluck!!


    3. Message by: mars monkeys on a stick 2026 10/29/2003 01:30:51 GMT
      Hallo, wir sind die mars monkeys on a stick 2026 aus Michigan in den U.S.A.


Discussion: Hallo By: southwilts56 10/27/2003 12:28:34 GMT
Wir sind das Southwilts56 von England. Vielen Gluck!

  1. Message by: Legoreds 10/27/2003 12:28:34 GMT
    hello back to england
    don*t lusch


Discussion: Habitat By: Chaos Designer 1026 11/18/2003 18:49:42 GMT
Wir wollten wissen ob ihr euch schon einmal Gedanken gemacht habt ob ihr das mit dem Habitat probiert oder es lasst.
Das Problem dabei ist ja, dass beide Gruppen diese Aufgabe synchron erledigen m*ssen, damit das Habitat nicht wieder zur*ck klappt. Wir m*ssten uns dar*ber vor dem Start einigen, ob wir das machen oder nicht sonst w*re es verschenkte Zeit.

mfg
Chaos Designer

  1. Message by: HoTSupport 10/14/2003 18:38:32 GMT
    Hi,

    jedes Team kann, muss aber nicht, die Aufgabe mit dem Habitat bew*ltigen. Demnach sollte es auch nicht zur*ck klappen, da jedes Team diese Aufgabe unabh*ngig von dem anderen Team erledigen k*nnen sollte. Falls doch, solltet Ihr *berpr*fen, ob es richtig zusammengebaut wurde und Euer Spielfeld auch wirklich gerade steht.

    Ciao,
    | Hands on Technology : Support |


    1. Message by: Chaos Designer 1026 10/15/2003 09:14:44 GMT
      Wir haben heute mit dem Habitat weiter experimentiert und haben folgendes festgestellt: Wenn wir auf eine Umrandung von 10 cm H*he, wie sie in der Bauanleitung f*r den Spieltisch vorgegeben ist, das Habitat aufsetzen, dann h*ngen die Beine in der Luft und damit bleibt die Habitath*lfte nicht fest in senkrechter Lage.

      mfg
      Chaos Designer


    2. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 10/17/2003 17:44:16 GMT
      Hallo, ich habe gelesen, dass das Habitat zur*ckfallen muss. (Und das mit der Bandenh*he spricht auch daf*r)Au*erdem finde ich die Erkl*rung der HoTSupport unlogisch, da ja jedes Team nur Punkte kriegt, wenn beide Teams die Aufgabe erf*llen. Die Teams k*nnen die Aufgabe also gar nicht unabh*ngig voneinander l*sen. Bitte schreibt, wie das jetzt wirklich ist!

      Desiwiniwasitu (Andrea)


    3. Message by: HoT2003 10/20/2003 15:08:37 GMT
      HoT-Support (Teil 2):
      1. es ist richtig, dass das Habitat zur*ckrollt - das ist ja gerade die Herausforderung! K*nnt ihr eine L*sung finden, dass ihr die Punktzahl bekommen k*nnt? Ich gebe zu, es ist nicht einfach - aber es ist l*sbar.
      2. Beide Teams bekommen die Punkte, wenn die Aufgabe gel*st wurde. Es gibt nur Punkte, wenn die Magnete dauerhaft zusammenhalten. Dies gilt auch, wenn nur ein Team die Aufgabe l*st: das andere Team bekommt ebenfalls Punkte, ohne das es etwas daf*r getan hat. Und auch die L*sung der Aufgabe ist durch nur EIN Team m*glich - es gibt bereits Teams, die die Aufgabe so angehen. Sucht nach eigenen L*sungen!


    4. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 10/24/2003 16:29:44 GMT
      Hallo ihr!
      Wir haben uns schon *berlegt, wie wir unseren Teil der Aufgabe l*sen k*nnten: Wir legen "einfach" ein Gewicht so davor, dass das Habitat nicht zur*ckklappt. Unser Gewicht besteht aus einem echten LEGO-Gewicht(ein Klotz, der schwerer ist als normal). Dieses haben wir auf einen gro*en Reifen gebaut. So ist die Reibung so gro*, dass das Gewicht nicht rutscht. Es l*sst sich aber trotzdem vom Roboter relativ einfach verschieben. Wir hoffen dass ihr euren Roboter so programmiert, dass er euren Teil irgendwann nach oben klappt.
      *brigens: Wir haben unseren Wettbewerb in M*nchen. Also w*rden wir uns vorallem *ber Antworten von anderen"M*nchnern" freuen. Aber wir freuen uns aber auch *ber die Ideen von allen anderen Teams!
      Viele Gr**e
      Desiwiniwasitu (Andrea)


    5. Message by: Chaos Designer 1026 10/27/2003 15:47:52 GMT
      Hi desiwiniwasitu,
      wir machen es *hnlich wir haben auch *berlegt es mit einem Gewicht zu fixieren. Es rollt dann nicht mehr zur*ck und die andere Manschaft kann sich Zeit lassen.

      mfg
      Chaos Designer 1026 (Christoph)


    6. Message by: Legoreds 11/14/2003 16:23:17 GMT
      Hi,
      wir machen es auch so.
      Wir schieben einen schweren Winkel aus Legosteinen davor.

      mfg Legoreds


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/18/2003 18:49:42 GMT
        Hallo Legoreds,

        danke f*r den Tipp. Wir haben an unser Gewicht jetzt auch noch einen Winkel (nicht spitz, sondern irgendwie mit Kurven) drangebaut und das funktioniert noch um einiges besser als voher. Danke!
        Viele Gr**e
        Andrea (Desiwiniwasitu)


Discussion: D*rfen Modelle verleimt sein??? By: it-cce 10/24/2003 18:39:24 GMT
Hi
wir haben eine kurze Frage:
auf der Homepage der FLL steht unter "Spielfeld" bei Allgemeines:
"...Versucht auch nicht, die Zerbrechlichkeit einiger Modelle als Strategie auszunutzen, da die Modelle bei Turnieren verleimt sein k*nnen."
*5. "Erlaube Materialien" der Regeln besagt aber dass "...Aufkleber, Farbe, Klebestreifen, Leim, *l usw. nicht erlaubt sind."

die Frage ist: was stimmt jetzt??

MfG das it-CCE Team

  1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 10/24/2003 16:38:59 GMT
    Hallo it-cce,

    also ich habe das so verstanden, dass man den Roboter nicht so progammieren soll, dass er Aufgabenteile zerst*rt, weil die "Wettbewerbsleute" diese verleimt haben k*nnten. Das mit *5 hei*t, dass ihr bei EUREM ROBOTER keinen Leim, ... verwenden sollt. Also blo* beim Roboter keinen Leim, die Aufgaben k*nnen schon verleimt sein. Hab' ich das verst*ndlich erkl*rt?

    Viel Spa* beim T*fteln
    Desiwiniwasitu (Andrea)


    1. Message by: it-cce 10/24/2003 18:39:24 GMT
      HI
      ok das k*nnte stimmen. danke f*r die schnelle antwort :)

      MfG das it-CCE-team


Discussion: Ber*hrung der Spielfeldbegrenzung By: m.a.r.s.1041 10/27/2003 12:35:44 GMT
Hallo FLL Teams,

Wir haben folgende Frage zur Spielfeldbegrenzung:

Darf der Roboter die Spielfeldumrandung ber*hren oder als Orientierungshilfe verwenden (z.B. durch Sensoren)

  1. Message by: Legoreds 10/27/2003 12:35:44 GMT
    hi
    ja wir denken schon sonst w*re sie ja nicht da *gg*
    wir benutzen es schon. Zwar nicht f*r Sensoren aber f*r andere geheime dinge


Discussion: finale By: Legoreds 11/24/2003 17:12:50 GMT
hi leute
wir ham da ma ne frage
mit welchen preisen kommt man ins finale
letztes jahr waren es forschungsauftrag,roboter1&2
und champion

  1. Message by: marstronauten 11/24/2003 17:12:50 GMT
    Hi!!!!!
    Wie viel Punkte erreicht ihr jetzt?
    habt ihr euren Roboter seit eurem ersten Wettbewerb verbessert?

    Die Marstronauten


Discussion: robolions meet legoreds By: Legoreds 10/27/2003 12:37:55 GMT
hi guys

did you build a robot like last year

we*ll see you in cologne

bye

Discussion: abtriebproblem By: Legoreds 11/03/2003 08:10:45 GMT
hi wir sinds wieder
habt ihr auch das problem, dass euer roboter
oft ganz anders f*hrt wie ihr es wollt?
Wir haben keine l*sungen und ihr?

MfG
Legoreds

greetz
to da robolions

  1. Message by: Chaos Designer 1026 10/27/2003 16:01:51 GMT
    hi,
    wir haben nur das Problem, dass unser Roboter einen Links- bzw. Rechtsdrall hat. Sonst klappt alles soweit.

    mfg
    Chaosdesigner 2003


    1. Message by: it-cce 10/28/2003 18:05:01 GMT
      hi
      falls ihr bei eurem Roboter genug Platz habt k*nnt ihr es mal mit 2 Differenzialen versuchen, in der regel l*uft er dann immer gerade.

      MfG das it-CCE team


    2. Message by: marstronauten 10/31/2003 10:50:04 GMT
      K*nnt ihr uns sagen was 2 Differenzialen sind, denn unser Robo f*hrt auch schief!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Bitte eine Antwort !!
      Die Marstronauten


    3. Message by: Legoreds 11/03/2003 08:10:45 GMT
      Ich glaube das sind diese alten Teile von Lego Technic.
      in ihm sind 3 Zahnr*der und wenn man die eine Stange dreht dreht die andere Seitenverkehrt. Besser kann ich es nicht beschreiben.Autos haben auch Differenziale


Discussion: fragen *ber fragen By: Legoreds 10/27/2003 16:23:52 GMT
hi leute
1.habt ihr auch dieses problem mit dem abtrieb(euer roboter f*hrt immer anders als ihr es wollt)?
2.macht ihr die modulverbindung?(die zwischen den banden)
3.gibts hier leute die uns kennen vom letzten Jahr?
4.Wieviele punkte holt ihr im durchschnitt?

MfG Legoreds
Greetz to da robolions

  1. Message by: Chaos Designer 1026 10/27/2003 16:06:17 GMT
    Hi,
    zu 1. siehe dem entsprechenden Beitrag
    zu 2. Ja
    zu 3. Wart ihr in Berlin?
    zu 4. Alle


    1. Message by: Legoreds 10/27/2003 16:23:52 GMT
      witzig ihr holt alle punkte da lachen ja die h*hner
      obwohl wir holen auch alle punkte nur halt nicht in 2 einhalb minuten
      ja wir waren in berlin

      greetz to ya


Discussion: Forschungsauftrag By: Legoreds 11/07/2003 16:05:03 GMT
Hi
Wie lange hat man f*r den Forschungsauftrag Zeit?
Manchmal steht 5 Minuten und manchmal 10 Minuten.

Legoreds

Gr**e f*r die Robolions
The girls love you.

  1. Message by: marstronauten 10/30/2003 15:13:42 GMT
    Hi! Wir haben gelesen dass man 5 Minuten Zeit hat


    1. Message by: Legoreds 10/30/2003 16:30:38 GMT
      Ja das steht auch irgendwo aber in den Regeln steht das man 10 Minuten Ziet hat.
      Die Seiten wiedersprechen sich zum Teil.


    2. Message by: marstronauten 10/31/2003 09:02:10 GMT
      In welchen Regeln steht das ? Marstronauten


    3. Message by: Legoreds 10/31/2003 10:10:15 GMT
      hi
      guckt zum beispiel mal bei den preisen unter forschungsauftrag!!!


    4. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/02/2003 15:23:38 GMT
      Hi,
      wir haben 10 min Zeit,
      5 zum Aufbauen und
      5 zum Pr*sentieren!
      Bis dann

      Desiwiniwasitu (Annalena)


    5. Message by: Legoreds 11/03/2003 08:11:39 GMT
      Wo her wisst ihr das?


    6. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/05/2003 14:57:46 GMT
      Hallo legoreds,
      wir haben eine Mail an FFL (FLL@hands-on-technology.org) geschrieben. Wenn ihr wichtige Fragen habt, k*nnt ihr eine Mail an sie schicken. Die antworten sehr schnell und konkret.
      Weiterhin viel Spa*!
      Desiwiniwastu (moritz, andrea, anni)


    7. Message by: Legoreds 11/05/2003 17:29:03 GMT
      Vielen Dank


    8. Message by: marstronauten 11/07/2003 16:05:03 GMT
      Man hat 5 Minuten zur Vorbereitung und 5 Minuten f*r die eigene Pr*sentation.


Discussion: Einen auf hoch By: Pathfinder3 11/14/2003 16:25:05 GMT
Also man muss den Ball hochhalten. dieses Spiel ist nur zu min. 3 m*glich weil einer im Tor und 2 min. drau*en sein m*ssen. man kann nur ein Tor erziehlen wenn der andere mitspieler einem den Ball hoch zu gespielt hat und man muss ihn volley ins Tor schie*en (K*pfen). Wenn man aber das Tor nicht trifft, und den Ball ins aus Schie*t bzw. K*pft dann muss man selber ins Tor und es geht so weiter. Viel Spa*

  1. Message by: Legoreds 11/14/2003 16:25:05 GMT
    Was hat das mit der Legoleague zu tun?

    Legoreds


Discussion: Herzlichen Gl*ckwunsch By: TeamGGS1053 11/15/2003 20:08:27 GMT


  1. Message by: TeamGGS1053 11/09/2003 21:50:28 GMT
    Wir gratulieren dem Dicovery Team zum gewonnenen Wettbewerb in Bocholt. Viel Gl*ck in K*ln

    Allen anderen: Es hat viel Spa* gemacht War ein Klasse Tag und Wettbewerb

    GGS Team aus Lingen


    1. Message by: Discovery 1005 11/15/2003 20:08:27 GMT
      Discoveryteam Herten
      Danke f*r den Gl*ckwunsch. Wir waren zum ersten Mal dabei und haben damit *berhaupt nicht gerechnet. Es war extrem spannend , und einfach nur cool. Wir ver*ndern auch noch einiges f*r K*ln. Dr*ckt uns die Daumen. Danke


Discussion: an alle "frankfurter" By: Legoreds 12/03/2003 00:07:15 GMT
hi ihr viel gl*ck f*r morgen
wir werden sehen wer das beste team ist

mfg legoreds
bis morgen

  1. Message by: Legoreds 11/18/2003 21:06:03 GMT
    ja, morgen werden wir weiter sehen! Ma gucken wie es wird.. Bis dann >>caro


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/18/2003 22:52:23 GMT
      GREETINGS FROM CHICAGO,IL.

      LEGO ROCKS


    2. Message by: TechSavvy741 12/03/2003 00:07:15 GMT
      duo me as duo me kuo


Discussion: Habitat in K*ln By: desiwiniwasitu 11/25/2003 14:56:02 GMT
Hallo!

Herzlichen Gl*ckwunsch an alle, die auch nach K*ln fahren!
Wir wollten mal wissen, ob ihr das Habitat macht. Wir machen es, indem wir ein Gewicht davorlegen und dadurch rutscht das Habitat nicht mehr zur*ck. Wir f*nden es sehr sch*n, wenn wir das irgendwie mit euch koordinieren k*nnten, weil das Habitat sehr viele Punkte bringt.
Viele Gr**e
von Desiwiniwasitu

  1. Message by: Legoreds 11/19/2003 21:18:39 GMT
    Wir sind auch in K*ln... sind total happy und h*tten eigentlich nicht damit gerechnet! Bis dann....

    >> Caro


    1. Message by: Legoreds 11/20/2003 19:26:31 GMT
      Wir mchen es wen wir wissen das es genug Teams machen.
      Also schreibt!!!!!!!


      1. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/21/2003 19:01:48 GMT
        Hallo Legoreds,

        wir haben einfach ein extra Programm geschrieben, bei dem der Robo die Habitation macht. Wir fragen vor dem Match das andere Team, ob sie es auch machen. Wenn sie es nicht machen, lassen wir das Programm einfach gar nicht laufen. So k*nnt ihr es doch auch machen, oder?

        Viele Gr**e
        Andrea (von Desiwiniwasitu)


    2. Message by: Legoreds 11/22/2003 11:46:41 GMT
      Das haben wir ach gedacht aber wir wissen nicht ob wir gen*gend Zeit zum Programmieren haben.


    3. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/22/2003 22:22:04 GMT
      Hallo Legoreds,
      Programiert doch dieses Programm schon jetzt bei euch zu Hause und fragt dann vor dem Wettbewerb, wer diese Aufgabe macht und ladet dann von eurem Laptop oder Pc, was ihr davon halt mit nach K*ln nehmt, die jeweilige L*sung auf den RCX vom Robobter.

      Wenn ihr diese Erkl*rung nicht verstanden habt, fragt einfach noch einmal, dann versuche/n ich/wir es besser zu erkl*ren.

      Bis dann
      Annalena von Desiwiniwasitu


    4. Message by: Legoreds 11/23/2003 12:00:08 GMT
      hi desiwiniwasitu
      hi annalena

      wir ham die aufgabe auch einprogrammiert
      wir machen das wie ihr
      wir wussten nur nicht ob wir jetzt gen*gend zeit ham
      denn wir ham getriebeprobleme

      bye
      nikoLAUS & jonas (legoreds)


    5. Message by: Legoreds 11/23/2003 12:00:32 GMT
      hi desiwiniwasitu
      hi annalena

      wir ham die aufgabe auch einprogrammiert
      wir machen das wie ihr
      wir wussten nur nicht ob wir jetzt gen*gend zeit ham
      denn wir ham getriebeprobleme

      bye
      niko & jonas DER STINKENDE
      (legoreds)


    6. Message by: Legoreds 11/23/2003 18:24:00 GMT
      Es tut uns leid aber wir haben bei unserem Treffen am 23,11,03 beschlossen den Habitant nicht zu machen. Das Programm daf*r ist n*hmlich so unsicher, dass es uns nur aufh*lt. Wenn wir w*hrend des Wettbewerbs merken das es Vorteile bringt werden wir es neu einstellen und benutzen.

      Legoreds
      (Jonas Zinn)


    7. Message by: marstronauten 11/24/2003 15:46:43 GMT
      Erstmal herzlichen Gl*ckwunsch an alle die auch nach K*ln gekommen sind!
      Wir haben beschlossen, dass wir das Habitant als letzte Aufgabe vor dem Krater zu 99% machen. Unser Roboter schiebt ein Gewicht davor. Bitte schreibt ob und wie ihr es macht.

      Danke die Marstronauten!


    8. Message by: desiwiniwasitu 11/24/2003 17:38:02 GMT
      Hallo,
      @mastronauten:Wir machen es genauso mit einem Winkel-Gewicht. Aber wir machen es wenn es genug andere machen gleich am Anfang.

      @legoreds: Der Habitant bringt aber viele Punkte. Und wenn ein fehler passiert ist halt ein Stein f*r einmal Roboteranfassen weg.*berlegts euch des doch nochmal.

      Bis dann
      Annalena von Desiwiniwasitu


    9. Message by: Legoreds 11/24/2003 21:26:18 GMT
      wir wissen das noch net ob wir es machen vielleicht schon schaun ma ma


    10. Message by: Legoreds 11/25/2003 14:56:02 GMT
      Wir haben uns jetzt *berlegt das wir die Aufgabe als letztes (vor dem Krater ) machen. Wir hoffen einfach das ein Team schon etwas davorgelegt hat, denn wir fahren einfach nur davor. So funktioniert es am besten

      Legoreds


Discussion: Wir waren flei*ig?! By: TeamGGS1053 11/24/2003 22:23:04 GMT
Hallo Teams

Wir waren flei*ig - in anderer Hinsicht. Wir haben ein Forum gebastelt f*r den deutschsprachigen Raum. W*re toll, wenn sich die Teams oder Schulen auch au*erhalb des Wettbewerbes beteiligen k*nnten. Man k*nnte sich ja auch vor einem Wettbewerb treffen und *ben oder kleinere Wettbewerbe veranstalten.
http://www.mindstormsforum.de

Euer GGS Team aus Lingen

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/24/2003 22:21:50 GMT
    We are the team from America!We hope you win!

    Blaine bat heads
    p.s we have te same lego face!!!


Discussion: Frage an HoT-Support wegen Bundesfinale in K*ln By: Top Five and Girls 11/25/2003 21:24:17 GMT
Hallo,
wir von Top Five and Girls haben eine Frage, weil wir von verschiedenen Seiten geh*rt haben, dass es nicht sicher ist, dass f*r die Forschungsaufgabe ein Beamer vorhanden ist.
Stimmt das? Ist ein Beamer vorhanden?
Danke
Top Five and Girls

Discussion: Legostarke Gr**e an Desiwiniwasitu By: Discovery 1005 11/29/2003 21:29:55 GMT
Hallo an das Team Desiwiniwasitu,
Wir, d.h. das Discovery team, haben uns unheimlich gefreut, dass ihr den Preis f*r die beste Teamarbeit bekommen habt. Wir finden euch wirklich super, haben alle aus dem Team gesagt. Noch einmal auch herzlichen Dank , dass ihr uns die Schere vor dem Pr*sentationsraum geliehen habt, sonst h*tten wir unsere Papiere *berhaupt nicht so gut aufh*ngen k*nnen. Hoffentlich sehen wir uns beim n*chsten Wettkampf wieder. Bis dann Discovery herten

Discussion: HI By: TechSavvy741 12/17/2003 02:45:06 GMT
Hi! We are team TechSavvy741! Hi! What is a RCX?

  1. Message by: 12/02/2003 23:59:09 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: 12/03/2003 00:01:10 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: 12/03/2003 00:03:22 GMT
      Deleted


    3. Message by: Top Five and Girls 12/12/2003 15:54:15 GMT
      nothing to eat.*g*


    4. Message by: TechSavvy741 12/17/2003 02:45:06 GMT
      This Forum was started by an incorrigible



Folder: FEEDBACK 02/17/2004 01:27:30 GMT
If you have any comments or suggestions for FIRST LEGO League, please use this folder


Folder: Mat Shipment problems 11/24/2003 19:38:28 GMT
for comments related to problems with the mats

Discussion: defects in mat By: Club BOB 10/01/2003 17:54:51 GMT
There seems to be more flaws in the mats for this year than prior years. Many teams have told me of the dings and bends in their mats.

it also seems a bit thinner and more fragile than the CitySights Mat.

  1. Message by: Legoshindiggies2872 10/01/2003 17:54:51 GMT
    I got a second mat sent from pitsco and the second one was worse than the first. So don't bother trying to get a new one.


Discussion: shipment box needs improvement By: Club BOB 11/24/2003 19:38:28 GMT
The box that the mat is shipped in has caused problems for some teams. Because of it's flimsy nature, the mat is more prone to damage during shipment.

One team had a big bend in their mat because the postman had folded the box in half for delivery to them.

For next season Pitsco should lose the box and use a sturdy tube. For their $50, teams should get a better box so the product doesn't arrive damaged before the teams have even had a chance to use it. Additionally if the teams have a good tube for storage, then the mat will last longer when not in use.

Some teams still use the mats after the FLL season has ended to help with training new team members about programming and missions or for demos to other groups.

  1. Message by: L.G.M.s1276 11/24/2003 19:38:28 GMT
    Our mat arrived alright as far as dings and bends go. Our damage was from the packing itself. They folded the mat and then shoved all the pillow packing in on one side of the box. When we unrolled it there were big creases where the top surface had already separated from the red color making it very difficult to use the light sensor in those areas. I agree a tube would help a lot.



Folder: tournament feedback 02/15/2004 01:35:20 GMT
general comments and suggestions for tournament improvements

Discussion: Presentation times By: Club BOB 02/01/2004 09:23:18 GMT
feedback about prsentations for Research and Technical

  1. Message by: Club BOB 02/01/2004 09:23:18 GMT
    For both Research and Technical Presentations there should be uniform presentation times.

    At the event where I helped judge research there were far too many teams unclear about how much time they had. If some teams do 10 minute presentations while others keep it under 5 minutes, then it's not uniform and it makes it difficult to judge. FLL should just go ahead and put in a 5 minute rule right in the coach's handbook that goes out with each challenge set every year so there's no question. I'd also like to see a strong suggestion that teams not rely so much upon powerpoint presentations. Technology is great but it doesn't promote creativity to have kids reading from powerpoint slides. Powerpoint should be used as background to suppliment not as the main focus of a presentation

    It would also be helpful if there was a clear description of what was expected for a technical presentation. Some teams were unfamilar with the Technical, some assumed it was the same as the research presentation.


Discussion: Results from Tournaments By: alienbusters2865 02/15/2004 01:35:20 GMT
Where can we go to get feedback about the tournaments? I have emailed our Alabama tournament director twice to find out our scores and got no answer. I would like to know some statistics from our Alabama tournament along with some National statistics. How many teams were there competing this year in our Nation? I'd also like to know what our scores were from the tournament we participated in. I think FLL should require tournament directors to send in some scores and statistics so we can get an overall picture of what's going on in the whole U.S.


Folder: Web site comments 11/02/2003 20:04:24 GMT


Discussion: 2003 bugs/problems By: Tekno Devils40 11/02/2003 20:04:24 GMT
Use this discussion to report errors

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/15/2003 23:25:57 GMT
    Whenever I click of the "search teampages" icon, I get
    prompted for my login. I am unable to access this
    feature. I was able to for the first few days!

    PS: Is there a better way to get error reports to you?

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: craterkids 09/16/2003 10:04:10 GMT
      I'm having problems posting attachments. All of my attachments show up as type 'webx' and cannot be opened. Try the attached zip file.


    2. Message by: pennichuck864 09/18/2003 12:51:50 GMT
      I can't login to the forums when using the mozilla browser. When I try to login I receive a blank screen. I can login using a netscape browser. This was a problem last year as well.


    3. Message by: GearHeads1198 09/19/2003 19:38:33 GMT
      Maybe you should try using Internet Explorer


    4. Message by: pennichuck864 09/29/2003 16:37:15 GMT
      Thanks for the tip GearHeads1198. Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately, depending on your viewpoint) Internet Explorer doesn't run on my computer/OS.


    5. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 02:59:40 GMT
      It's not set up to handle Mozilla due the scripting for the login page. I'm also forced to use IE to access the forums. Same thing each year.

      What I don't like is that means I can only get into the forums from my Windows system and can't use it from my Linux system. Part of why I use Mozilla is because it runs on Windows, Linux and Mac systems. It's also not prone to the viruses that IE/Outlook users have to face.

      Linux is a good alternative to Windows, especially if you have some older PCs. But for accessing the forums you will need to use IE on a Windows system and can't access the forums on Linux.

      Many schools are now using Linux because it's free and it saves them money over site licenses from MS. Open Source applications such as Mozilla and OpenOffice are good way for schools to save on their computer software costs.

      It's too late for this year, but I hope for next year the webmasters do allow Mozilla users to use the FLL forums and not force us to use IE to read the messages.

      thanks,

      Susan
      Club BOB


      1. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/02/2003 20:04:24 GMT
        Maybe next year I'd suggest you use a PHP/MySQL based forum system for the forum, maybe Invision Power Board? vBulltion? phpBB? Every browser supports PHP,

        And about IE and linux, People have sucessfully been
        able to use IE on Linux using the Wine emulation system, but you'd want to use IE 5 for this.

        The forum works on the Opera web browser and it comes in a verison for linux as well!.


    6. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/15/2003 21:51:00 GMT
      Directory structure:
      1) It would be nice to put all the state folders under one
      called "Individual States".
      2) Make the top level directory read only to prevent novice
      users from starting threads
      3) Add a folder called "Misc" for messages that do not fall
      into any other catagories.

      Also, It might be time for a bot of clean up in the root
      directory!

      -Skye


Discussion: Would be nice to have multiple logins for a single team. By: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/17/2003 18:41:14 GMT


  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/16/2003 05:42:25 GMT
    It would be very helpful to have multiple logins for
    a single team. The reason for this is that the "New"
    flags are practically essential in reading of the
    discussions in order to find the new messages amongst
    all of the old ones. However, these "flags" are
    cleared the first time that a posting is viewed by
    a reader. With there being up to 10 students on a
    team, and multiple coaches and/or mentors, it becomes
    difficult for multiple individuals on a team to each
    read the discussion forums, since the "new" flags are
    cleared when the first of the team members views the
    messages.

    Is there a way to have multiple individual logins within
    a single team?

    --Ken Streeter
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    1. Message by: martian argonauts 09/17/2003 17:56:56 GMT
      you can, just do it exactly like how you set up the first one, only w/ a diferent "screen name" and password.


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem 63 09/17/2003 18:41:14 GMT
        Awesome! Thanks for the hint! This will be a big help
        to the coaches of our team!

        --Ken Streeter
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Problems with Forum Login - Now what By: P.O.P Panthers(4thgrade) #2863 10/02/2003 03:19:14 GMT
I have more than 1 team. 2 of the other teams registered, and just SWEAR they did it all right, but we cannot log into the forum. They show up as teams registered for the FORUM under our state - so I can verify what they typed in. They also swear that they have copied down the password correctly. What do I do now? Is my only option to double register them for the forum? It looks like several teams have had to do this. Either that or multiple people logged the team in. Are there any other options?
Thanks.

  1. Message by: LEGO League - Systemadministrator 09/30/2003 22:15:09 GMT
    I can easily understand your argument for giving each team member their own account.

    However, this year we expect to have more than 40.000 children involved in FIRST LEGO League globally and unfortunately we do not even come close to that amount of available accounts in the system.

    In order to avoid saying yes to some and no to others, we kindly ask you only to create one account.


    1. Message by: P.O.P Panthers(4thgrade) #2863 10/02/2003 03:19:14 GMT
      No, you missunderstand. I have 1 team at the school I teach at - it is a part of the curriculum. I have 1 team after school at my own children's school. We registered the first team, no problem, on the forum. The SECOND team was registered, and now we cannot get on the forum. I watched them do it & we copied everything down. Either there is a problem with the password (And I WATCHED them type it in) or a problem in the way the name was entered. Is there any way to find out what has gone wrong or do we just register them for the forum again, thus creating two entries?


Discussion: Kits By: CCC125 10/23/2003 10:44:08 GMT
We have recieved our standard kit (we think) but it doesn't seem to have any thing that is useful such as the sensors and motors or anything that would help us make a robot that moves or does anything. we dont even have the controller for the robot or the top. Is this right?

  1. Message by: Club BOB 10/23/2003 08:11:41 GMT
    Did you just get the challenge set or did you also order a robot set as well?

    If you only ordered the challenge set, that would just have what goes on top of your playing field. You would have received a mat and pieces that you put together to make a Mars surface and there should also be a CD with the instructions for building the playing field (pdf files on the CD).

    If you only ordered the challenge set but not the robot set, you would need to either already have either LEGO Mindstorms or Robolab kits to build your robots from.

    If you don't have either LEGO Mindstorms or Robolab, then my suggestion would be to order the robot set. Note that the robot set does not include a remote control but you are not allowed to use those during FLL. (if you want a remote control for off-season, those can be purchased as either part of the Ultimate Assessory Kit or directly through Pitsco.)

    http://www.usfirst.org/jrobtcs/2003_pricing.htm

    <<" FLL Robot Set: $260 (recommended for new teams)
    The Robot Set includes everything you need to build and program a robot to participate in FLL. The set includes two alternative software versions: Robotics Invention System 2.0 and Robolab 2.5, providing you with an opportunity to determine what software version works best for your team. This set also includes: 1 RCX microcomputer, 1 IR Tower (choice of serial or USB), 3 Gear Motors, 2 Light Sensors, 2 Touch Sensors, 1 Rotation Sensor, 1 LEGO Lamp, over 700 LEGO elements, 1 Constructopedia - with building instructions for sample robots and one Getting Started Guide.

    FLL Challenge Set: $50 (teams have the option to share sets if they so choose) Provided to teams in part by donations from 3M and the LEGO Company
    The Challenge set contains everything your team needs to build and set up an exact copy of the 2003 FLL Challenge Playing Field. This set includes an exclusive collection of several hundred LEGO elements, a 4x8 foot Playing Field roll-out mat produced by 3M, a sheet of 3M Dual Lock fastener and a CD containing building instructions. **Your playing field needs to be set up on a flat surface with borders around it. For information on how to set up borders on a floor, or how to build a standard FLL table, please visit the FLL website.

    The following OPTIONAL items are offered to FLL teams as EXTRA or REPLACEMENT parts:

    Light Sensor: $14.99, plus shipping and handling
    Rotation Sensor: $16.99, plus shipping and handling
    Gear Motor: $15.99, plus shipping and handling">>


    1. Message by: CCC125 10/23/2003 10:44:08 GMT
      Oh right thanks a lot. That helps a lot as we were kind of confused. We thought we were stuck with just these bits and that there could have been soemthing missing. How long would the robot set take to get to england? as our actual regional thing is in only 4 weeks!


Discussion: Starting in the base By: planetaryrats1125 10/28/2003 03:47:39 GMT
Can you start your robot on the Tetrahedron Base and be outside the baselines on the mat or do you have to be inside the baselines on the mat while you're on the Tetrahedron Base?

  1. Message by: ilsgreen2170 10/28/2003 03:47:12 GMT
    From Scott Evans' Q&A ( http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11360 ),

    [10-1-03] Q: Is the entire surface of the tetrahedron base considered to be 'the base' or just the portion behind the angled 'base line' as drawn on the mat?

    A: Rule 23 says that missions superceded rules when they disagree, and the mission in question says "For this mission, starting position is with the robot touching only the rectangular platform." so for that start, the angled Base lines on the mat don't matter.

    - Mark Beitz, coach


Discussion: hot weather By: 2smart4u1043 12/15/2003 23:45:35 GMT
hey wazzzzzzzzzup nothing happening here all were doing is doing research. do you know about the
mav gotta go

Discussion: FLL division 2 By: Club BOB 02/17/2004 01:27:30 GMT
I'd still like to see two divisions of FLL, one for rookie/younger teams of 9-12 year olds and the other older division for 12-17 year olds.

Developmentally, a 9 year old is not going to write the same programs as a 14 year old. A team of 9 year olds is totally different than a team of 14 year olds, everything from teamwork to maturity to just understanding conceptionally what to do.

About the time that a kid understands the programming, they are too old for FLL because of the age 14 cut off.

I'd like to see a high school division of FLL they could use the same challange but other languages such as NQC or Java would be allowed for programming. Their research projects could be more complex than what a 9 year old could do.

While some former FLL kids do go onto FIRST, that's a totally different type of competion than programming an RCX.

  1. Message by: alienbusters2865 02/15/2004 01:40:40 GMT
    I totally agree with your thought. For 2 years in a row I have taken 5th graders and came in 2nd place behind a Middle School group. This middle school team had been together for 3 years in a row. At our level kids are just beginning. I will never have a winning team because they are all rookies when I get them. I think we should have more than 2 levels. One level for 4th/5th grade, one for 6th/7th grade and one for 8th/9th grade. This would make the competition more fair and realistic. I also agree with you that this program should continue through high school.

    Sylvia Dean/Alabama Coach


    1. Message by: GanonsRoboDevils1463 02/17/2004 01:27:30 GMT
      While I like the concept, for some of us it would be difficult to sort out. My kids last year (our first) ranged from 7 to 14. This year from 10-14. Maybe it should depend on the number of years of collective experience the team has.

      If you get all new kids, you are really still a rookie team. But, if all the team members are in their third year of the program, even though they formed a new team, that should be treated as a veteran team.

      I would definitely support continuing this to high school level. This is totally different from what is offered through First, and, due to the cost factor, it could be open to far more kids. Maybe a separate division with the same basic problem but a tougher challenge than the younger kids get? An extra mission or two, perhaps.

      Darrell
      Coach, Ganon's RoboDevils



Folder: FRANCE - [for French members] 01/08/2004 18:43:28 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns France in this folder.


Folder: bonne chance! 10/10/2003 23:13:31 GMT
bonjour,
bientot le concours le college tezenas vous souhait bonne chance et que le meilleur gagne

RAID


Folder: jujubeans 10/26/2003 21:54:27 GMT
hello, sheshuise miuen darieraier!

Discussion: reception matos By: tezenas 10/17/2003 12:56:29 GMT
qui a re*u le matos?
julien

  1. Message by: tezenas 09/19/2003 10:54:00 GMT
    Quel syst*me utiliser vous?

    version du ris + usb?
    version de robolab?
    version de ris

    merci

    julien


    1. Message by: clubstorm 09/20/2003 11:55:02 GMT
      Salut,
      nous avons commenc* avec la version RIS 2.0 + usb.
      Nous allons commander le kit compet. avec Robolab, bien que ce soit la version 1.5 alors qu'ailleurs ils ont d*j* la version 2.5...


      1. Message by: tezenas 09/20/2003 12:07:19 GMT
        salut,

        manifestement GROS soucis pour avoir la version 2.52 qui en version US (mais pas de soucis car ic*nes)
        Jeulin souhaite commercialiser que des versions fran*aise pour des probl*me de SAV!

        Si vous voulez la version 2.52 merci de m'envoyer un mail pour que je puisse faire remonter l'infos * jeulin et Lego.

        Il existe un pacth pour win XP pour le RIS * t*l*charger sur le site de lego mindstorm

        julien.launay@laposte.net

        julien


        1. Message by: clubstorm42 09/30/2003 11:32:44 GMT
          Nous sommes int*ress*s par la version 2.5 de ROBOLAB.
          Que cette version soit en anglais n'est pas un probl*me.
          Qu'elle utilise le port USB est un avantage ind*niable.

          A bient*t.


    2. Message by: BUFFON 1 09/22/2003 22:05:57 GMT
      Merci de nous dire si vous avez re*u le mat*riel.
      Pour ROBOLAB 2.5 peut on t*l*charger des mises * jour ?
      Bon courage * tous.
      R.L.


    3. Message by: BUFFON 1 09/24/2003 11:23:08 GMT
      Bonjour * tous !
      Nous souhaiterions savoir qui a re*u le tapis et les obstacles.
      Merci

      Have fun


    4. Message by: BUFFON 1 09/27/2003 09:46:30 GMT
      Message pour Julien de Tezenas
      Nous avons re*u le mat*riel vendredi


    5. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 10:55:31 GMT
      Nous n'avons rien re*u encore !


      1. Message by: clubstorm42 09/30/2003 11:37:05 GMT
        Cause nous n'*tions pas encore client Jeulin...
        Y parait que c'est r*solu...
        Que nous devrions bient*t le recevoir...
        D*j* que 2 mois *a fait court pour pr*parer cette *preuve, alors 1 mois et demi...
        L'important c'est de participer...
        Et d'y croire...


    6. Message by: tezenas 09/30/2003 12:50:59 GMT
      salut,

      ceux qui sont interess*s par la version 2.5 version US avec prise en charge USB m'envoi un mail de demande *:
      julien.launay@ac-lyon.fr

      merci

      julien


    7. Message by: clubstorm42 10/03/2003 15:22:59 GMT
      Nous avons re*u aujourd'hui Vendredi 3 le mat*riel !
      Il *tait temps !
      A bient*t sur le forum pour d'autres questions/r*ponses !


    8. Message by: GYRO2817 10/13/2003 19:41:53 GMT
      salut! Notre equipe est de Georgetown Ontario, en Canada.


      1. Message by: clubstorm42 10/17/2003 12:56:29 GMT
        Bonjour,
        Quelles sont vos dates de comp*titions ?
        Etes vous pr*t ?


Discussion: D*tails des *preuves By: clubstorm42 01/08/2004 18:43:28 GMT
Avons nous bien compris la m*me chose concernant le d*roulement des *preuves ?
Voici une suite de questions et r*ponses !

  1. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 10:59:06 GMT
    Sortie de la base T*tra*dre :

    Apr*s cette *preuve, la rampe restera-t-elle toujours baiss* ?


    1. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 11:00:42 GMT
      Lancer de la balise :
      La balise ronde doit-elle *tre install*e par le robot, ou bien manuellement ? Dans ce cas le robot ne d*clenche que la catapulte.

      Doit-il revenir * la base ?


      1. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:25:48 GMT
        A mon avis, il faut que tu am*nes aussi la balle et que tu d*clenches. Donc 2 choses. Voir les points * gagner.

        julien


    2. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 11:01:26 GMT
      Nettoyer le panneau solaire :
      Doit il revenir * la base ?


      1. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:26:23 GMT
        Pour toutes les missions, le robot n'est pas oblig* de revenir * la base.

        julien


        1. Message by: clubstorm42 12/10/2003 18:57:28 GMT
          Apparemment ce n'*tait pas l'avis des arbitres de pistes * CACHAN puisque nous avons eu des p*nalit*s en ramenant manuellement le robot * la base.

          On se demande bien si on a lu le m*me r*glement ?


    3. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 11:08:31 GMT
      Relier les modules d'habitations de 180* et de 90*:
      les modules d'habitations sont en contre bas de la plate-forme.
      le robot doit il aller les chercher ?
      ou peut on les accrocher au robot pour qu'il aille les deposer .
      Doit il revenir * la base ?


      1. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:27:20 GMT
        Il faut apporter les modules et les accrocher. A toi de g*rer si tu fait plusieur allers-retours.

        julien


    4. Message by: clubstorm42 09/27/2003 11:11:14 GMT
      poser les rochers dans la zone de lancement :
      qui place les rochers?
      comment sont ils dispos*s?


    5. Message by: tezenas 10/03/2003 14:09:07 GMT
      qui a compris d'o* doit partir le robot pour chaque mission?

      merci

      julien


      1. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:27:58 GMT
        Le robot doit partir de l'air de d*part.


    6. Message by: tezenas 10/10/2003 14:10:54 GMT
      bonjour je suis un eleve de tezenas et j ai pas trop compris la missions E
      pouvez vous m expliquer
      merci


      1. Message by: DaxAttack21 10/16/2003 09:29:09 GMT
        IL FAUT FAIRE CETTE MISSION A DEUX ! Les 2 *quipes doivent ex*cuter la mission en m*me temps pour refermer le module.
        Il suffit de pousser la partie avec la roue sur la piste.


    7. Message by: tezenas 10/10/2003 14:17:02 GMT
      bonjour,dans la mission G pouvons-nous prendre les 3 blocs de glace en m*me temps et les ramener * la base.


      1. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:44:39 GMT
        Pour les blocs, peut importe, le but est d'en ramener le plus possible * la base. M*me avec plusieurs aller-retours.


    8. Message by: tezenas 10/10/2003 14:18:53 GMT
      bonjour je voudrais savoir pour la mission G si on peut partir de la base ou d'une autre mission.


    9. Message by: tezenas 10/10/2003 14:18:58 GMT
      bonjour,dans la mission G pouvons-nous prendre les 3 blocs de glace en m*me temps et les ramener * la base.


    10. Message by: tezenas 10/13/2003 14:24:48 GMT
      Oui la rampe reste ouverte


    11. Message by: DaxAttack21 10/15/2003 19:12:31 GMT
      oui c'est permis, le probl*me est de les ramener les 3 d'un coup !


    12. Message by: clubstorm42 10/17/2003 12:54:01 GMT
      Si DaxAttack21 n'*tait pas venu, j'ai bien failli croire qu'il n'y avait que Saint Etienne qui utilisait le Forum !!!

      ;-)
      C'est vrai que c*t* Internet nous ne sommes pas mauvais :
      Club Storm avec
      http://rcxdroide.ouvaton.org/
      et
      Tezenas avec
      http://robotechno.free.fr/

      C'est vrai aussi que nous avons l'Istase * Saint Etienne qui * gagn* plusieurs fois la coupe de robotique E=M6:
      http://www.univ-st-etienne.fr/istase/FRA/Presentation.html

      Allez, reveillez vous les autres !!!


    13. Message by: clubstorm42 11/21/2003 14:59:19 GMT
      Je me sens un peu seul sur ce forum.
      L'usage du web en France n'est pas encore acquise...

      Nous sommes un peu en avance sur l'usage d'Internet avec notre superbe site http://www.rcx-storm.org/

      A bient*t sur notre site, pour plus d'infos...


    14. Message by: 01/08/2004 18:43:28 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Je parle francais By: MemorialMustangs1642 11/10/2003 23:45:11 GMT
Bonjour mon homes, je parle francaise.

  1. Message by: tezenas 10/03/2003 16:50:48 GMT
    moi aussi je parle francais


    1. Message by: Jr Comets II 10/06/2003 21:55:40 GMT
      Non je parle' francais


    2. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:36:33 GMT
      Bonjour! We are the Metal Martains from Canada! Bonne chance to you! we are trying our best to speak francais!


    3. Message by: 11/10/2003 23:45:11 GMT
      Deleted



Folder: HOLLAND - [for Dutch members] 11/24/2003 21:03:51 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns Holland in this folder.


Folder: Algemene vragen 11/21/2003 22:04:39 GMT
Als landelijk co*rdinator zal ik de vragen die in deze folder gezet worden zo snel mogelijk beantwoorden.

Wiebe Wagemans


Folder: onderzoek 10/30/2003 17:07:53 GMT
volgens ons is er nog steeds geen vertaling van de onderzoeksopdrachten, klopt dat?
scz scz 34

Discussion: moters By: TrinoomAresteam22 11/05/2003 22:50:52 GMT
waneer komen de robotpaketen binnen???????????????????..
we wachten al maanden????????????????????????????????:-(
KANT NIE WAH SNELLER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  1. Message by: ECT Elza makers 09/25/2003 08:18:41 GMT
    In het lego pakket voor de Marsopstelling, mis ik een groene staaf, zitten die ook in de robotpakketten of moet ik die zelf ergens organiseren?


    1. Message by: 09/30/2003 09:30:10 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/05/2003 22:49:31 GMT
      Nou, die hoort in het bouwpakket te zitten.
      Anders moet je contact onemen met firstlego.

      succes

      het scz team


      1. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 11/05/2003 22:50:52 GMT
        Dit bericht is nog van september, toen was er nog niets binnen.


Discussion: Mindstorm extensie en Robolab By: FLL NL coordinator 11/21/2003 22:04:39 GMT
Wegens een probleem bij het versturen van de Mindstorm extensie- en Robolabpakketen zullen deze pas later arriveren. Wij doen ons best om deze zo snel mogelijk bij de teams te krijgen. Onze excuses voor de vertraging

  1. Message by: ECT Elza makers 09/30/2003 13:41:19 GMT
    Wij hebben de spullen ontvangen, maar er zat geen software bij (misschien is dit ook niet nodig?)


    1. Message by: Hanevoet-1 11/04/2003 11:47:36 GMT
      Eindelijk hebben we het lego robotpakket op vrijdag 31 oktober binnen gekregen. We gaan erg hard werken om er toch nog iets van te maken. Helaas missen we nog enkele onderdelen van de Marsmodellen kunnen die nagestuurd worden en bij wie moet ik dan zijn?


      1. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/05/2003 22:45:53 GMT
        Dat was ook bij ons het geval( dat we onderdele missen).
        waarschijnlijk zijn ze onder weg want bij ons zaten ze nog in denemarken.
        neem contact op met firstlego.
        Veel succes

        het scz team


    2. Message by: Hanevoet-1 11/04/2003 11:51:09 GMT
      Zaterdag 22 november is de grote dag. Hoe laat moeten we in Delft zijn en hoe laat zijn we klaar?


      1. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/05/2003 22:42:19 GMT
        Dat word nog bekent gemaakt


    3. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/05/2003 22:41:31 GMT
      Er hoort softwere in te zitten voor het programmeerwerk.
      Als je het nu nog niet hebt dan moet je echt contact opnemen met firstlego want het is een heel karwei dat programmeren.

      groetjes,
      scz


    4. Message by: Hanevoet-1 11/12/2003 09:43:32 GMT
      Is er nu al iets bekend over de wedstrijddag???????


      1. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/21/2003 21:33:57 GMT
        Ja.
        Het vind morgen(22 november) plaats in Delft(kwee niet waar) om half 12.


    5. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 11/21/2003 22:04:39 GMT
      Zie: http://physsql.phys.tue.nl/stp/routebeschrijving.asp



Folder: Interessante links 10/08/2003 15:16:11 GMT
Als je interessante links met betrekking tot de challenge wilt delen, plaats ze dan in deze folder.

Discussion: Handige Amerikaanse FLL pagina By: FLL NL coordinator 10/08/2003 15:16:27 GMT
Op deze onoffici*le pagina kun je veel handige tips en antwoorden vinden:
http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/


Folder: Mededelingen van de organisatie 11/21/2003 10:01:41 GMT
Hier zal ik namens de Nederlandse organisatie mijn algemene mededelingen plaatsen.

Discussion: Prijzen tijdens finale By: FLL NL coordinator 10/23/2003 17:14:42 GMT
De prijzen die tijdens de finale uitgereikt gaan worden zijn:

- Hoofdprijs
- Beste Robotontwerp
- Beste Robotprestatie
- Beste Robotprestatie - 2e plaats
- Beste Onderzoekspresentatie
- Beste Teamwork
- Beste Teamgeest

Discussion: Routebeschrijving finale By: FLL NL coordinator 11/21/2003 10:01:41 GMT
Zoals de meeste teams al weten zal de finale morgen plaats vinden op het Zuidpolder complex van TNO. Het adres hiervan is Schoemakerstraat 97 in Delft. Een routebeschrijving is te vinden op de pagina http://www.tno.nl/locaties/delft_zuidpolder_ck.html. Op het terrein wordt de finale van de FLL gehouden in het Pulsfysicalab.

Vanaf 11.30 zijn de teams welkom. De wedstrijden starten om 12.30 en om 17.00 is de prijsuitreiking afgelopen.


Folder: Missie doelen 11/02/2003 14:05:29 GMT
Hier discussie en vragen over de missies.

Discussion: misschien wat vreemde vragen over een aantal missies By: vikingteam33 11/02/2003 14:05:29 GMT
ik had nog wat speciale, en misschien wat vreemde, vragen over de missies en een paar los van de missies.

missie b:
st*l dat nadat de bal gelanceerd is, hij door wat dan ook wordt tegengehouden en hij valt terug in het lanceerkanon...
ja zeer uitzonderlijk, maar is de bal dan gelanceerd en krijg je er de volle punten voor?

missie c:
je krijgt een gedeelte van de punten bij gedeeltelijke verwijdering van het stof. geld het verwijderen van 1 blokje stof ook als gedeeltelijke verwijdering?

missie e:
1a. heeft het andere team (dus) een gespiegelde kaart?
1b. en waarom hebben wij die niet? hoe is die verdeling gedaan?
2. mag je iets achter laten in het veld? teld dat dan dus niet mee voor "de hele robot" die aan het einde in de krater terecht moet komen?

missie f:
als je de rover wel van de heuvel afhaald, maar niet op zijn wielen levert ie dan geen punten op?
hij moet dus of in de basis, wel of niet op zijn wielen. maar als ie de basis niet haald moet ie dan op zijn wielen staan?

missie h:
regelrecht uit de regels: "aan het eind van de wedstrijd moet de robot eindigen in of op de krater". wat is OP de krater?

algemeen:
- objecten die het doel half bereiken, dus de basis in moesten en op de lijn van de basis staan. leveren die op enige manier punten op?
- zijn er beperkingen aan de grootte/lengte/breete van de robot?

  1. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 10/28/2003 12:11:15 GMT
    Hallo Vikingteam33,

    Hieronder kort de antwoorden op jullie vragen.

    missie b:
    De opdracht is het lanceren van de bal. Waar de bal uiteindelijk terecht komt maakt dus niet uit, ook al is het in de lanceerinstallatie.

    missie c:
    Ook het verwijderen van **n blokje telt als gedeeltelijke reiniging.

    missie e:
    Nee, er is geen gespiegelde mat. Je kunt twee matten zo tegen elkaar leggen dat de wooneenheid op dezelfde plek staat. De basissen liggen dan beide aan de andere kant.

    missie f:
    De rover moet op zijn wielen eindigen, anders heeft het natuurlijk geen zin hem te bevrijden. Als je hem naar de basis brengt, maakt het niet meer uit of hij op zijn wielen staat.

    missie h:
    Op de krater is met **n of meerdere onderdelen op de rode kraterrand. Je krijgt voor deze missie alleen punten als het veld buiten de kraterrand niet aangeraakt wordt door de robot.

    algemeen:
    - Volgens regel 22 hoort de lijn ook bij de basis. Kijk ook naar het plaatje bij regel 19. Daar geldt A t/m E als in de basis.
    - Volgens regel 7 zijn er beperkingen aan de afmetingen van de robot. De robot moet binnen de denkbeeldige doos passen van 40 cm hoog en als zijkant de randen van de basis.


    1. Message by: vikingteam33 11/02/2003 14:05:29 GMT
      Ok, heeel erg bedankt voor al de antwoorden. Hier hebben we echt heel erg veel aan! Nu kunnen we weer verder :)

      Aan de hand van de antwoorden zijn er alleen weer nieuwe vragen op gekomen.

      - Volgens regel 7 zijn er beperkingen aan de afmetingen van de robot. De robot moet binnen de denkbeeldige doos passen van 40 cm hoog en als zijkant de randen van de basis.

      de randen van de basis, is dat de hele basis of alleen de verhoogde beginpositie?

      en nog een vraagje onbeantwoord.

      missie e:
      mag je iets achter laten in het veld? teld dat dan dus niet mee voor "de hele robot" die aan het einde in de krater terecht moet komen?

      alvast en nog bedankt voor de vorige antwoorden!



Folder: Vragen over de regels 11/21/2003 09:58:10 GMT
Hier discussie en vragen over de regels.

Discussion: toch een paar vragen By: vikingteam33 11/21/2003 09:58:10 GMT
ik vind de regels niet overal even duidelijk in
kan iemand mij helpen de volgende dingen beter te begrijpen?

regel 1.
"teamleden mogen wel wisselen tussen twee missies in."
aangezien missies niet voor beide (naast elkaar staande) teams het zelfde zijn. is dat dan niet storend voor een ander team?

regel 2.
hoe ziet de dag qua wedstrijden er uit? in de regels staat het volgende:
"De MC start de wedstrijd en de teams hebben 2 1/2 minuut de tijd om een aantal missies tot een goed einde te brengen. Meerdere wedstrijden volgen totdat elk team tenminste **n keer heeft gestreden. Dit proces is meer dan **n speelronde. Er zijn tenminste drie speelrondes per wedstrijd. Na elke ronde kunnen de teams naar een speciale ruimte gaan, waar ze de gelegenheid hebben de robot te repareren of aan te passen. Bij sommige wedstrijden worden extra rondes toegevoegd, zoals een finale ronde."
a) wat is een wedstrijd?
b) wat is een speelronde?
c) wat is een ronde?
d) wat is een finale ronde?

regel 5.
toegestane bettarijen zijn o.a. 6 AA batterijen. mogen er echt niet meer mee of is dat het aantal dat aan de robot vast zit?

regel 5.
toegestande materialen: mag dat, behalve electra, alle eigen lego zijn? dus bijvoorbeeld magneten en pompjes?

regel 10.
"richters of andere uitlijn apparaten mogen worden gebruikt om de robot in een goede startpositie te helpen"
wat zijn richters of andere uitlijn apparaten?

regel 13.
"de missies kunnen ... een keer worden overgedaan"
mag dat **n keer, of vaker?

regel 17.
mag je missie modellen verwijderen?
en wat is direct effect? ("tenzij het uitvoeren hiervan direct effect heeft")

regel 19.
"het eindigen van een missie in de positie A tot en met E resulteerd niet in het verlies van bonuspunten"
dus als je de robot uit het veld moet pakken tijdens een missie worden er alleen bonuspunten afgehaald als je bezig was met de missies F, G of H?

  1. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 10/28/2003 12:56:52 GMT
    Hallo vikingteam33,

    Bedankt voor jullie vragen. Aan de hand van jullie vragen zijn de regels (met name 2) hier en daar verduidelijkt. Hieronder kort een paar antwoorden.

    regel 1.
    Door de opstelling van de tafels staat ieder team aan een andere kant. Daarnaast kun je natuurlijk het andere team opzettelijk hinderen, maar dan kun je de prijs voor de beste Teamgeest wel vergeten. Dat is gewoon onsportief.

    regel 2.
    Stel je hebt vier teams, 1 t/m 4.

    begin toernooi

    begin speelronde 1 = ronde 1
    wedstrijd teams 1 en 2 (meerdere missies)
    wedstrijd teams 3 en 4 (meerdere missies)
    eind speelronde 1

    begin speelronde 2
    wedstrijd teams 1 en 3
    wedstrijd teams 2 en 4
    eind speelronde 2

    begin speelronde 3
    wedstrijd teams 4 en 1
    wedstrijd teams 2 en 3
    eind speelronde 3

    begin finale ronde
    wedstrijd teams 3 en 1
    eind finale ronde

    eind toernooi
    Zie ook de verbeterde tekst.

    regel 5.
    Het gaat hier alleen maar om de materialen die bij de robot horen die tijdens een wedstrijd op de wedstrijdtafel staat. Je mag zoveel batterijen, LEGO, motoren, computers e.d. meenemen naar de finale als je wilt.

    regel 5.
    Alle LEGO is toegestaan, dus ook pneumatisch en magneten. Alleen mogen processen daarmee alleen door de robot gestart worden en niet met de hand. Je mag bijvoorbeeld zelf van tevoren een opwindmotor opwinden. Maar het starten van de motor moet door de robot zelf gebeuren.

    regel 10.
    Uitlijnapparaten kan je gebruiken om ervoor te zorgen dat de robot steeds op dezelfde plek begint.

    regel 13.
    Je mag een missie zovaak opnieuw proberen als je wilt. Zie de verbeterde tekst.

    regel 17.
    De scheidsrechter mag missiemodellen verwijderen, zolang deze niet vastzitten aan de tafel zoals beschreven in opbouw tafel. Hij mag echter geen stofdeeltjes van het zonnepaneel verwijderen omdat dit direct effect heeft op de score.

    regel 19.
    Ik snap de vraag niet. Ook bij missies A, B, C, D, en E kom je buiten je basis


    1. Message by: vikingteam33 11/02/2003 14:22:05 GMT
      erg bedankt voor de antwoorden! en leuk om te horen dat door onze vragen de regels zijn aangepast :)

      over rregel 19 dan nog maar even. wat is bedoelde is het volgende:

      in de regels staat:
      "het eindigen van een missie in de positie A tot en met E resulteerd niet in het verlies van bonuspunten"

      ik neem aan dat positie A tot en met E, missie A tot en met E betekend?
      en het verlies van bonuspunten gebeurt als je de robot uit het veld moet pakken.
      dus, wat de regels zeggen is dat het 'eindigen van een missie', het uit het veld pakken van de robot dus, alleen een verlies van bonuspunten oplevert als je bezig bent met missies F, G of H.

      volgens mij is dit niet helemaal waar en neem ik dus ook aan dat positie A tot en met E iets anders is dan missie A tot en met E. maar wat dan?


    2. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 11/04/2003 17:48:31 GMT
      Met positie A t/m E worden de posities bedoeld die staan in het plaatje bij regel 9.


    3. Message by: ECT Elza makers 11/06/2003 16:54:53 GMT
      ECT Elza makers

      ook van ons enkele vraagjes:
      - mag je het zonnepaneel optillen om het schoon te krijgen?

      - je mag drie motoren gebruiken. Is dit drie motoren in het totaal of mag je verschillende robotarmen maken waarbij je steeds een andere motor gebruikt door de totale armen te wisselen?

      - er staan twee programeer manieren op de CD mag je zelf weten welke je gebruikt?


    4. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 11/13/2003 12:12:44 GMT
      - het zonnepaneel staat vast op de met met behulp van de dual-lock tape. Het is niet toegestaan deze los te maken. De zandduin is wel los en mag zelfs met de rover tegelijk meegenomen worden.

      - bij een wedstrijd mogen er drie motoren meegenomen worden naar de wedstrijdtafel. In de pit mag je er zoveel hebben als je wilt.

      - beide programmeer manieren zijn toegestaan


      1. Message by: SCZ SCZ34 11/17/2003 16:42:36 GMT
        dat is toch vreemd, dat dat zonnepaneel vast staat.
        dat staat helemaal nergens vermeld. wij hebben al een week ons programma steeds verbeterd om he t zonnepaneel op te tillen en alle blokjes eraf te gooien.
        toen we dit lazen was dat wel een hele grote teleurstelling.
        het was de enige missie die in ieder geval lukte.
        lekkere domper!!!!!!


    5. Message by: FLL NL coordinator 11/21/2003 09:58:10 GMT
      Zie ook de pagina: http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=12540


Discussion: Toch nog 2 vragen By: Hanevoet-1 11/19/2003 08:33:35 GMT
Mag je aan het begin van de wedstrijd de krater laten verwijderen van het veld, zodat de kegels blijven staan?

Mogen we de eerste missie vanuit de basis naast het platform starten?

Discussion: lego leage By: redraiders76 11/05/2003 22:28:02 GMT
Hi we are the red hot commets and we are going for the first time. The lego leage will be fun and i hope you enjoy it to . cheers,
The red hot Commets !!!!!!!!!

  1. Message by: NASA 2034 10/31/2003 00:52:04 GMT
    You Should get working and have less team spirt. OH!! Improve your low selfestine................You stupid freak


    1. Message by: NASA 2034 10/31/2003 00:55:13 GMT
      Please give us some ideas about an arm for the ice cores. Also tell if your robot is consistint. Please reply!
      Yours truly, NASA SQUARED.


      1. Message by: 11/05/2003 22:28:02 GMT
        Deleted


    2. Message by: NASA 2034 10/31/2003 00:57:02 GMT
      We are pesky freaks but all the same give us advice on the magnetic Habitation Modules.


Discussion: you By: redraiders76 09/25/2003 21:47:08 GMT


  1. Message by: L.G.M.s1276 09/25/2003 21:47:08 GMT
    me


Discussion: to continue by a european contest By: DaxAttack21 10/31/2003 10:46:55 GMT
We are participating to french contest but next school year we want to organize an european contest with material of Missioj Mars 2003. We can do it in Holland with the help of ESTEC ! Who are interested in your contry ? Person in charge of your team can contact aide.fll@wanadoo.fr for more informations.

Discussion: Een bericht voor iedereen! By: vikingteam33 11/22/2003 00:15:14 GMT
Wij vikingteam33 gaan ervoor. We willen hierbij iedereen in Nederland succes wensen!!! We zijn erg benieuwd naar jullie robots. En we verheugen ons er tepletter. (op de wedstrijd)

Namens viking33,
Jules, Jan-Willem, Hidde, Coen, Martine, Michel en Robert.

  1. Message by: dreamteam44 11/22/2003 00:15:14 GMT
    Dank voor jullie aanmoediging. Jullie ook veel succes bij de wedstrijden morgen.

    Groeten,

    Dreamteam 44 en Zzzupergirls-43


Discussion: Hallo Nachbar By: TeamGGS1053 11/24/2003 21:03:51 GMT
Hallo Teams

Wir waren flei*ig - in anderer Hinsicht. Wir haben ein Forum gebastelt f*r den deutschsprachigen Raum. W*re toll, wenn sich die Teams oder Schulen auch au*erhalb des Wettbewerbes beteiligen k*nnten. Man k*nnte sich ja auch vor einem Wettbewerb treffen und *ben oder kleinere Wettbewerbe veranstalten.
http://www.mindstormsforum.de

Euer GGS Team aus Lingen


Folder: KOREA - [for Korean members] 01/02/2004 08:15:49 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns Korea in this folder.


Folder: Seoul Mokdong LEC 12/09/2003 03:23:55 GMT


Discussion: Where are you Korean FLL player??? By: marsexplorer1361 12/09/2003 03:23:55 GMT
****** ****** FLL** ******** **********... **** ****** ******..

****** **** ******** **** ****** **** **********..

All of korean FLL Player.. Get up and Hurry up!

We can show our ability... Cheer up!!

Discussion: Test By: doctor_mars1362 12/02/2003 21:48:02 GMT
It's test discussion.
************.

  1. Message by: Robopanther3524 12/01/2003 23:24:49 GMT
    try to convert your piston valves to the breaker in a comintiont sent


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 12/02/2003 21:48:02 GMT
      I am sorry,but I dont speak korean.

      Lego rocks!!!


Discussion: does anyone know hong sik kim By: TechSavvy741 12/12/2003 08:28:35 GMT


  1. Message by: doctor_mars1362 12/12/2003 08:28:35 GMT
    I don't know hong sik kim... Who is he?


Discussion: ****** ****** **** **** By: marsexplorer1361 01/02/2004 08:15:49 GMT
**** 2003 FLL ******** **** ****** ********** **** ******** ****** ******** **************. ******** ****** ****** ************ **** ****** ************ ******** ****, ********** ****** ************ ****** **********, **** **** ** **** ****** ****(?)** ****** **, ******** ****** **** ** **** ****** **** ********.

**** ************** ** ****** **** ****** ******** ****** **********..


Folder: Make International Contact - [for ALL members] 12/09/2003 23:07:30 GMT
Use this folder to make contact with teams in other country's


Folder: HELP FOLDER 01/14/2004 20:45:47 GMT
HERE IS A FOLDER WHERE YOU CAN POST PLEAS FOR HELP.

Discussion: HELP By: MindStormTroopers1741 01/14/2004 20:41:28 GMT


  1. Message by: TechSavvy741 01/14/2004 20:41:28 GMT
    HELP WE NEED STRESS BUSTERS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Discussion: need help with reserch By: Solar Sonics 4077 01/14/2004 20:46:06 GMT
we can't find any information on the misson's. can you please help us???????????????????

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 12/02/2003 21:51:16 GMT
    funny thing we have the exsact same problem


    1. Message by: TechSavvy741 01/14/2004 20:45:47 GMT
      In the coach book there are short write-ups about each mission

      hope this helps!

      Scott
      TechSavvy741

      p.s.there are links on the North Amercian Page.



Folder: hi everyone i like the tennesse titans and im from ri 11/10/2003 23:03:37 GMT
i want to know if any 1 did all the challenges

Discussion: hi By: vikings679 11/10/2003 23:02:35 GMT
were the space rangers and the messy mars marines

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 23:02:35 GMT
    yes they are


Discussion: hi By: vikings679 11/06/2003 18:26:30 GMT
were the space rangers and the messy mars marines

Discussion: hi By: vikings679 11/06/2003 18:26:39 GMT
were the space rangers and the messy mars marines

Discussion: hi By: vikings679 11/10/2003 23:03:37 GMT
were the space rangers and the messy mars marines

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 23:03:37 GMT
    I told you yes


Discussion: Greetings from Beaverton, Oregon By: Red Planet Gladiators702 11/05/2003 22:56:26 GMT
Hi! I'm the coach for the Red Planet Gladiators. This is our first year so I'm getting everything set up for our team and learning what is available so I can provide instruction. I'm hoping to be able to turn everything over to my team members shortly. While our team is quite young, we have been discussing Mars, LEGO, and robot design this summer and are eager to jump in and meet other teams.

Sincerely,
Glenn Graham, coach for the Red Planet Gladiators
http://home1.gte.net/res0jwg1/astronomy

  1. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/08/2003 21:56:25 GMT
    Hey I'm from Florence, Kentucky, USA. How's it going everyone?


    1. Message by: Quark 09/09/2003 13:06:17 GMT
      Greetings from Denmark. Good luck to the both of you. I am sure you will have a great season together with your teams. If you have not done it already make sure to let your team know where to look into she sky to see Mars for real. It is quite amazing. Only 55 mill kilometers away :-)

      /Soren


    2. Message by: Alien Youth 1313 09/10/2003 14:46:46 GMT
      Greetings from the cheese state! I am not the head coach, but one of the team. I look forward to having a great time!
      ps
      if you want to see more go to our site
      www.alienyouth.tk
      :-)


    3. Message by: Women in Black 58 09/14/2003 02:45:05 GMT
      Greetings from Florida. I am the coach of 2 teams this year Women in Black 58 a team of 8th grade girls and Men in Black 56 a team of 8th grade boys. This is the second year for the boys and the first competition for the girls.
      We look forward to the challenge and look forward to communicating with teams from other areas.


    4. Message by: Sindarin148 09/14/2003 15:51:16 GMT
      Hello to all. We are the Sindarin Elves of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, and this is our first year participating in FLL. We look forward to meeting many of you online and sharing ideas together as we learn. We hope to participate in the Pottsville, PA tournament on December 6, and we look forward to meeting some of you there.


      1. Message by: wrbbears1249 09/22/2003 20:51:58 GMT
        Hi, this is the co-captain of the wrb bears and research. This is our fourth year in lego mindstorm. We'll be glad to trade hints, tips, and ideas with you guys.

        RSVP AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

        Brian :-)


        1. Message by: Rebels1051 09/25/2003 06:10:58 GMT
          Hi, i'm Becca on team R.E.B.E.L.S (robotic engineers beginning to evolve life's standards) we're in Wheeling, Il. This is my second year in the lego, and my school's 4th year running. P.S. is anyone building Acrobat 2?


    5. Message by: bobcats1969 09/16/2003 18:11:20 GMT
      Howdy, folks

      Anybody here from our side of the woods? I have just organized a team in Bozeman, MT! To my dismay, I found out that I probably have to organize a tournament as well, or we don't get to compete :-( Anybody around us with a similar predicament? We could do a triwizard tournament! Oh, no, this was a different story :-) Anyway, we could do a inter-state tournament if there are interested people in Idaho, Wyoming or Utah.

      Regards,
      Alex
      alex@cns.montana.edu


    6. Message by: Bananas of Doom656 09/18/2003 21:50:46 GMT
      Greetings from the "Evil Flying Bananas of Doom" not my first choice for a team name but that's what you get whn you turn a bunch of 7th and 8th graders loose. Ours is the first team in south Texas that I am aware of. Would like to hear from any others in our area, or from anywhere in the world.
      Sincerely:
      Mike Benning
      Coach
      mike@theframeupcc.com


      1. Message by: Rebels1051 09/25/2003 06:12:10 GMT
        Hey! Not all our names our bad, my team is all 7th grade and look what we've got!


    7. Message by: Debugs483 09/20/2003 21:47:26 GMT
      Hey to everyone! We're a homeschooled team from Anchorage AK, starting our second year. We took 3rd last year, and hope to place 1st this year. Great to talk to you all!!

      Hannah, team member, DeBugs

      P.S. btw, Sindarin148, are you LotR fans?


      1. Message by: Women in Black 58 09/22/2003 17:34:52 GMT
        Greeting Anchorage,
        I am the coach of two teams made up of 8th graders, one male and one female. I had family living in Fairbanks a few years ago and visited your beautiful state. Good luck in your competition.


    8. Message by: wrbbears1249 09/23/2003 20:26:31 GMT
      Hi, does anyone know if the sticky stuff came with the lego pieces to hold them down. RSVP

      Brian :-0


      1. Message by: Biobots 876193 09/23/2003 22:11:15 GMT
        Hi Brian,
        The velcro pieces should have been included in your kit when it came. Some pieces work fine as is and some you will have to cut to size. You may have to contact the company if you didn't get any. :-)

        Linda J.
        Biobots 876 Coach
        Cedar Rapids, IA


      2. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 09/25/2003 03:43:06 GMT
        We found ours in the box with the map. We shook the box to make sure nothing else was inside and the 3M tape slid out. Hopefully you still have your box.


      3. Message by: challoner233 11/05/2003 22:56:26 GMT
        the stuff sticks together like velcro so you can pull it apart and together easily


    9. Message by: Robohawk 2256 09/24/2003 20:04:51 GMT
      Hi. I am the coach of 2 team this year (down from 3 in the past). This will be my 4th year coaching. I also experienced the joy of having the only teams in the state our first year (I coached 2 that year also). We were fortunate enough to live in North Carolina. The WONDERFUL people in Virginia gladly welcomed us to their tournament (before they had so many teams that they had to start having regionals to qualifify for state).

      The next year was 2001, and because of 9/11, we were not allowed to travel out of state. I convinced our local high school (with a FIRST team) to host a state tournament for 14 teams. We have been growing ever since.

      Good luck to everyone!

      Team names? They haven't decided yet. Team numbers 2256 and 2257.


    10. Message by: B.O.T.S.1429 09/26/2003 04:41:20 GMT
      Hello Everyone from Connersville Indiana! Good Luck teams and most important...HAVE FUN!!!


    11. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/14/2003 19:04:16 GMT
      I just wanted to say that our team is hoping for a succesful launch of the Chinese manned orbital mission and safe return of their pilot(s)!


    12. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/14/2003 19:12:56 GMT
      Our team came across this photo while doing some research. I'm not sure if its MER-A or MER-B but I thought it was appropriate for October (at least here in N. America and UK, anywhere else?).


    13. Message by: 10/16/2003 21:53:48 GMT
      Deleted


    14. Message by: Marbots 10/21/2003 22:33:58 GMT
      I hope everyone does a great job. We need the support as well.


    15. Message by: SMMS 10/24/2003 00:43:21 GMT
      Hi from stamford Connecticut. :) ;)


    16. Message by: Electronic Executioners2148 11/03/2003 05:31:09 GMT
      Hi from Albany Oregon. Our team is in its second year of competition. We wish good luck to everyone.


      1. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 11/03/2003 07:01:10 GMT
        Hi! How did you fare last year and how do you find the challenges this year compared to last?


Discussion: Greetings from Germany By: TeamGGS1053 12/02/2003 00:26:37 GMT
Many Greetings from Germany - Lingen (Ems). We look forward to the competition and wish all much fun.

GGS Team :-)

  1. Message by: Rebels1051 09/25/2003 06:13:45 GMT
    Hi from a little north of Chicago,IL, USA! Good luck to all!


    1. Message by: BvilleFLL402 09/30/2003 19:54:30 GMT
      Greetings to Germany.
      We are connecting through http://SENSORSCITY.marshall.edu to run programs with data lgging.
      It is a way to get a RoboLab Investigator program to use and modify for gathering light and touch sensor data. There are two cameras to watch the programs go. http://lego.marshall.edu can run other programs, too.


    2. Message by: vikingteam33 10/10/2003 19:39:10 GMT
      Greetings to Germany, from Holland. Good luck with the game.


    3. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:50:41 GMT
      Good luck to every one from Holland,MI!

      ~Marbots


    4. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:50:51 GMT
      Good luck to every one from Holland,MI!

      ~Marbots


    5. Message by: HMS Raiders 427 10/18/2003 00:45:48 GMT
      Hello Team GGS1053 - We are the HMS Raiders #427 from Michigan, USA. We wish you much luck, lots of fun, and a bit of learning as well.


    6. Message by: SMMS 10/27/2003 21:45:09 GMT
      We are the a CT team and wish that we can all share information and get to know one another.
      Good Luck at the compettion! :)

      PS: We won awards last year and will be of much of help to you as you will be to us. ;)


    7. Message by: Organized Chaos 253 10/30/2003 01:08:26 GMT
      Hello from Wheeling, West Virginia in the U.S.A.! WE hope you have lots of fun in the competition. Good luck this year!

      Auf Wiedersehen!
      Organized Chaos 253


    8. Message by: blue1721 10/30/2003 02:52:25 GMT
      Hi, we are currently undecided about are name. So for now just call us the blue team. We are looking for info on the MAV Launcher. So therefore if you have any info please post it and the website name. Hi again from the blue team and good luck with your robot and the competition.


    9. Message by: SMMS 10/30/2003 15:22:18 GMT
      Hi blue1721 team. We are team SMMS from Connecticut USA. My team would lke to talk with yours. Check the NASA website http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/ for more information on Mars.

      :) Team SMMS ;)


    10. Message by: Low Riders1694 12/02/2003 00:24:31 GMT
      GREETING FELLOW HUMANIODS! I have superiour knowledge of turn based combat.
      Atari forever!
      Peace out!
      Word.
      Home slive.
      Dawg.


      1. Message by: Low Riders1694 12/02/2003 00:26:37 GMT
        Hey. Its myself again. I know who invented tuperware. No im working. MUST RESEARCH!
        Peace out.
        Home slice.
        1st generation consoles will never die.
        Who cares if it was bad 3d it was 3d none the less.


Discussion: Hey RoboHobos By: RoboGirls 11/10/2003 22:19:21 GMT
Hey RoboHobos

We are a team, with 6 girls. Our names are: Melina, *nia, Iben, Sandra, Annica and Marie. We are the Robogirls. we are going to school at "S*ndermarkskolen" in Billund, we are all in the 5th grade.

We are already programming the robot because on next thursday we are going to show our robot to the Chinese minister of educatiom!! We have three adults to help us, their names are: Harriet, Tormod, Torben. We meet 2 times a week, somtimes 3 times. We work hard every time we meet. We think its fun. We are working in the basement of Tormods office. In the basement, we have a computer to program the robot, we have of course also the playingfield to do the missions on.

Today we have made some drawings of a logo for our team. but we have to finish it next time we have a meeting.

The 22. October a newspaper will visit us and interview us and take pictures of us. They will make an article about the Robogirls, so many people can read about us.

We would like to send many regards to you all and especially to Alli who knows Sandra. Actually Sandra and Alli met some years ago at Alli's house.

We would like to have a picture of you, and we will send a photo of us next time we write to you

Best regards
Robogirls
(Melina and Marie)

  1. Message by: mars monkeys on a stick 2026 11/05/2003 02:14:21 GMT
    Cool. Good luck! I'm guessing that by being in fifth grade its your first time. Hope you have a good year. We suck at the current moment. Also, DON'T CALL ME A ROBOHOBO!!!!


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 22:19:21 GMT
      where do you guys live and i mean what stat


Discussion: I wonna great every one from Holland. By: vikingteam33 10/16/2003 21:48:21 GMT
Do you have questions for smart Hollanders?

  1. Message by: 10/10/2003 19:14:12 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:48:21 GMT
      How do you add a fork lift?


Discussion: Marbots By: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:56:57 GMT


  1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:44:10 GMT
    Are team is called marbot


    1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:56:57 GMT
      Our good team can help u with stuff


Discussion: Marbots By: Marbots 10/16/2003 22:07:37 GMT
We are a new team in Holland, MI, US of A.
wish us lots of luck.

  1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:45:40 GMT
    We just started. there are more lego leage people then i expected.


    1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:47:00 GMT
      Marbots are in holland,MI


      1. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 22:07:37 GMT
        Ha Ha


    2. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:47:12 GMT
      We just started. there are more lego leage people then i expected.


Discussion: research By: Marbots 10/30/2003 22:21:58 GMT
Does anyone know of a good website for researching ice cores? if so please post it. It would be of great help!

  1. Message by: Marbots 10/21/2003 22:29:48 GMT
    Yes please help us & post them ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!


    1. Message by: SMMS 10/22/2003 00:45:58 GMT
      have you tried serching on NASA's website and www.google.com. :)

      SMMS USA Connecticut


      1. Message by: SMMS 10/23/2003 14:26:01 GMT
        the NASA website is http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/


    2. Message by: Mars Malows 1614 10/23/2003 00:10:06 GMT
      You should look in the resources section of this website. It shows some links you could click on and it should help you.


    3. Message by: cls1820 10/30/2003 22:21:58 GMT
      Go to www.google.com and type in Mars, you'll get a lot of information. Other helpful websites are Nasa Kids and http://www.allsciencestuff.com/phy_ast/astronomy/mars.


Discussion: Hello from Connecticut By: SMMS 11/07/2003 23:45:27 GMT
We are the a CT team and wish that we can all share information and get to know one another.
Good Luck at the compettion! :)

PS: We won awards last year and will be of much of help to you as you will be to us. ;)

  1. Message by: Legoreds 10/29/2003 15:04:31 GMT
    Hi we are the Legoreds from germany

    Good luck and don't Lusch

    P.S Gr**e f*r die Robolions
    The girls love you


    1. Message by: SMMS 10/30/2003 15:16:58 GMT
      Good luck to you too. :)

      Team SMMS Connecticut USA ;)


    2. Message by: legolions300 11/05/2003 22:54:35 GMT
      Hi we are the team from Queen Anne School in Maryland this is are first time at doing this compettion i wish every one good luck


      1. Message by: SMMS 11/07/2003 23:45:15 GMT
        Hi :) ;)
        and good luck.


    3. Message by: wd40s2305 11/06/2003 04:53:04 GMT
      Hello and good luck to all


Discussion: robolions meet legoreds By: Legoreds 10/27/2003 14:22:40 GMT
hi robolions
we*ll see you in cologne
and we won*t be the losers

many greetz by the girls
they love you
and don*t lusch
it*s better for you

Discussion: Robot photos By: red marauders77 11/19/2003 19:49:08 GMT
Hi! We the Red Marauders from Singapore, and we would like to exchange photos of our robot with other teams all around the world. If you would like to share your robot photos with us, e-mail us at redmarauders@hotmail.com . Thanks.
-Ruizhi,11

  1. Message by: challoner233 11/05/2003 22:59:58 GMT
    hi you stole our picture and i thought it would be origional


    1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 19:49:08 GMT
      Yeah, but how about after the competition.


Discussion: BIG reasearch QUESTION By: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 19:47:17 GMT
Our team has an important question about our research project... the habitation modules. Should we design every little detail and plan out the whole voyage? Or should it be were we just think of one little thing... say, how to supply a breath able atmosphere, and focus on that ignoring everything else? Obviously it should be neither of these extremes... but where should it be in between?

Discussion: Another BIG mondo REASEARCH QUESTION By: MindStormTroopers1741 11/21/2003 01:44:51 GMT
Lets say that our team took the time to plan out every last detail of the habitation modules* including designing the space craft to get there, specifying its landing site, designing the rovers to build, and finding and using the ice caps as a water source. Would that be flowing off to much into other research projects like robot recovery and ice caps?

Discussion: Thanks Nozomi, good luck Beagle! By: Red Planet Gladiators702 12/09/2003 23:07:30 GMT
Thanks Nozomi, for providing such a great inspiration to our team. Launched over 5 years ago it was planned to reach Mars in less than a year. A thruster malfunction required the team to plan a series of planetary pass-by's over the course of four years to finally arrive at Mars. Unfortunately, during its travels though the inner solar system, solar flares damaged the power supply, the fuel supply froze, ... Each time the Nozomi engineers perservered and kept Nozomi alive. Finally, this week, Nozomi was to be put into orbit around Mars. Unfortunately, due to lack of fuel, Nozomi failed to enter Mars orbit. Like other failed Mars spacecraft, many years of dedicated effort went into Nozomi but success if never guarenteed.

http://www.space.com/missionlaunches/nozomi_done_031209.html
http://www.space.com/missionlaunches/nozomi_update_031121.html

Next to arrive at Mars will be BeagleII lander. Cheers to the BeagleII team!

Glenn Graham
coach, Red Planet Gladiators


Folder: NORTH AMERICA - [for North America members] 02/27/2004 06:36:34 GMT
Please post all discussions that concerns North America in this folder.


Folder: ***ICE CORES RESEARCH INFO AND QUESTIONS*** 12/05/2003 15:25:41 GMT
Post all of your concerns HERE :)

Discussion: Where is a good site to research the content of Mars's Ice Cores? By: robopanther2989 11/14/2003 17:08:03 GMT
:(

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/14/2003 17:08:03 GMT
    sorry we dont know eather


Discussion: *****ways to pick up all the Ice Cores******* By: Robopanther3524 12/05/2003 15:25:41 GMT


  1. Message by: Robopanther3524 12/01/2003 23:14:47 GMT
    What are some ways that you can get over the crater, grab all the ice cores, and easily get back to base


    1. Message by: Robopanther3524 12/01/2003 23:16:34 GMT
      We are trying to hook them all on a hook and bring them back over the crater to the base


      1. Message by: Robopanther3524 12/01/2003 23:28:02 GMT
        It is the only way


    2. Message by: TechSavvy741 12/04/2003 23:00:40 GMT
      are you sure


    3. Message by: Legonauts4 12/05/2003 15:25:41 GMT
      There are always multiple ways of doing things in this league. Never assume that there is only one way.

      Ask yourself does the robot have to carry them back?
      What types of motion can get them back to base?
      Push, Pull, Carry, Fly, Materialize, to name a few.

      Think out of the box.

      -Dave
      Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605



Folder: 2003 Mission Mars tournament Results 02/29/2004 07:07:33 GMT
Please post results of tournaments in this folder.

Discussion: Wisconsin Appleton and Stevens Point By: Tekno Devils40 02/15/2004 17:02:29 GMT
Appleton results at:
http://www.uwsp.edu/education/creative/FLL/Tournament/Scores.asp?Id=2

Stevens Point results at:
http://www.uwsp.edu/education/creative/FLL/Tournament/Scores.asp?Id=1

(Thanks to Mark Beitz)

  1. Message by: ilsgreen2170 11/20/2003 05:11:46 GMT
    Appleton, WI and this post for some explanations of the Wisconsin scores and some opinions on why scores and results may not be necessarily be the most important part of FLL. - Mark


  2. Message by: ilsgreen2170 11/25/2003 05:41:19 GMT
    Results for the Wisconsin state tournament results from December 14 are now posted. For those of you following high table scores, Team 25 posted a high of 388 and Team 1145 posted a high of 370. Congratulations to all teams!

    Also - thanks to the staff at Wisconsin Creative Problem Solving Programs for posting scores so quickly!

    - Mark Beitz, coach


    1. Message by: dragondevils119 02/04/2004 01:47:09 GMT
      Mark,
      did that team really achieve a perfect score? That is awesome!! Do you know if they were able to complete the Alliance module on their own?

      Joe, team 119 coach.


      1. Message by: AKEEMA 23 02/11/2004 14:38:00 GMT
        Hi, Joe.

        I'm one of the coaches of the Martian Exchange Students and yes, they did get a perfect score on their last run at the Wisconsin State tournament. (Initially, the score was posted incorrectly as a 388, but a review of the tape from the competition confirmed a perfect run) The kids completed the alliance on their own. The team is creating a web site and, hopefully, will add a video clip of the run within a couple of days. Look for it at www.ocfll.com.

        Sue Wanninger
        Team #25 Martian Exchange Students
        Team #23 AKEEMA


  3. Message by: dragondevils119 02/12/2004 18:02:27 GMT
    Hi Sue.
    Will you be going to the Nationals? I'd love to see the robot in action. We had a 388 round at our state tourney. We did not even try to bring the rover back. We figured no one would try. Now the team has another goal to shoot for since we did have some time left in our round.

    Great job!!

    Joe


    1. Message by: AKEEMA 23 02/14/2004 00:23:04 GMT
      Hi Joe.

      Yes, the Martian Exchange Students' team will be in Atlanta. We're really looking forward to it, although I think it will be a little bit of a struggle to keep everyone's energy level up until then. (Let me know if you have any ideas on that)

      I thought that I read somewhere that this was your team's second year at Nationals. My husband and I were in Houston last year, but as coaches of the Jimmy and the Neutrons' team. It was lots of fun. I'm hoping that we have a little more time to get to know some fellow coaches and that the kids can meet Fllers from around the country.

      Have fun getting ready for nationals! We'll see you in two months!

      Sue Wanninger


      1. Message by: dragondevils119 02/14/2004 08:15:57 GMT
        Hi Sue,
        this will actually be our 3rd nationals. We went to Orlando before Houston. At Houston we were the Director's Award Honorable Mention winner. All the girls on the team are 8th graders so this will be their last FLL tournament. Some of them are being actively recruited for the high school robotics team. Some are going to be mentors for Lego teams.

        I gave the team 2 months off but starting next week it's back to business. They really want to get started. I have planned a couple of team building events to keep them focused. We are having a team party at Laser Quest (laser tag) and then we are giving a Lego demonstration to the local teams with a questions and answer session. But teenagers have busy lives nowadays.

        See you at Atlanta.

        Joe Hopkins


        1. Message by: AKEEMA 23 02/15/2004 06:28:34 GMT
          Hi, Joe.

          Wow, three times at nationals. Congratulations! That must be so cool for the girls - Florida, Texas, and now Georgia. Have the same kids been on the team for all three years?

          By the way, my husband remembers that the Dragon Devils were part of the alliance with Jimmy and the Neutrons' and the Urban Wizards' last year in Houston. We've got a copy of a tape where the teams are chanting Jimmy - Dragon - Wizards' during our alliance run. Jimmy' is the lone member of last year's team on the Martian Exchange Student team.

          I laughed when you mentioned laser tag. Laser Tag is the Martian Exchange Students' favorite activity!

          I'm sure we'll talk' before Atlanta. Tell the girls that the Martian Exchange Students' say hi!

          Sue


          1. Message by: dragondevils119 02/15/2004 17:02:29 GMT
            We started in 2000 with 6. In 2001, 1 changed schools and we picked up 3. Same 8 for the last 3 years although 1 can't make it to Atlanta. We also compete at Robofest which is put on at a local university in April.
            We have a website which has pictures of the past tournaments. You may find your team in there somewhere.
            www.dragondevils.com

            Talk to you later,

            Joe


Discussion: New Hampshire results By: Tekno Devils40 12/17/2003 14:51:42 GMT


  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/01/2003 13:49:35 GMT
    Merrimack Tournament results are at:
    http://www.chopshop166.com

    -Skye


    1. Message by: pennichuck864 12/02/2003 18:48:51 GMT
      Thanks Skye ..

      Looks like the Tekno Devils are heading to the state tournament and with an Innovative Solution Award. Congrats!

      Do you recall any of the performance scores for the meet? Just curious as to where we fit in on the spectrum.

      - Paul


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/02/2003 19:34:06 GMT
        Sorry, no scores. I know that we never broke 200! Many
        teams were in the mid to upper 200s. One team I think
        broke 300.

        -Skye


    2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/08/2003 22:59:31 GMT
      Fairgrounds local tournament results:

      1st Place performance: #74 Albino Monkeys
      2nd Place performance: #40 Tekno Devils
      (Last match was 259 to 307)

      Robust Design: #52 Flying Geeks
      Programming Award: #40 Tekno Devils
      Innovative Design: #57 Batteries Not Included (BNI)
      Creative Presentation: #74 Albino Monkeys
      Quality Presentation: #24 Raptors
      Innovative Presentation: #1269 Puma's
      Teamwork: #52 Flying Geeks
      Judge's Award: #57 Batteries Not Included (BNI)
      Director's Award: #40 Tekno Devils


    3. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/17/2003 14:26:44 GMT
      NH State Tournament Results (1 of 4)

      The NH State Tournament took place on Saturday, Dec 13, 2003. The tournament was amazingly well organized by the sponsors; as far as I could tell, everything went off without a hitch! Congratulations are due to the organizers and all teams that participated. Twenty-six judges, 13 referees, and more than 100 volunteers planned and executed the state tournament. The level of preparation amongst the teams was extremely impressive; there were some amazing rookie teams, as well as seasoned veterans (some teams with 5 years of FLL experience!)

      One of the most deserved awards, in my opinion, was the outstanding volunteer award, which was presented to Skye Sweeney, for his work over the past three years to promote FLL and help anybody who requests it! Thank you, Skye! I know that my interest in FLL as a coach has been heightened by Skye's enthusiasm and assistance.

      BAE Systems, in partnership with the New Hampshire Society for Technology in Education, was this year*s tournament sponsor. The Nashua School District provided the facility support. This was the second annual New Hampshire State tournament.

      The next three postings in the forum continue the NH tournament results from the official press release. (The postings are too long to be placed in a single message. If you post a followup, please do so after the last message, to keep this sequence together.)

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    4. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/17/2003 14:33:37 GMT
      NH State Tournament Results (2 of 4)

      NASHUA, N.H. (Dec. 13, 2003) * Mindstorms Mayhem, a team of 10 students home schooled from five cities in southern New Hampshire, was named 2003*s BAE Systems FIRST LEGO* League New Hampshire State Tournament champion at the Nashua High School North Campus, Dec 13.

      Placing second was the Flying Geeks, Nashua Christian Academy, Nashua, N.H.

      FIRST LEGO* League (FLL) is one of the largest science competitions for students throughout the U.S.

      Mindstorms Mayhem was among 48 elementary and middle school teams from throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts providing both a robotic solution and a research presentation to interplanetary mission challenges. *Mission Mars* invited students to explore the Martian landscape, solving problems unique to the Red Planet*s environment.

      *The greatest challenge was to learn to work together as a team,* said Ben Streeter, Mayhem robot handler, *Once we did, we found we were good at different things * builders, programming, team spirit and research.*

      Other Mindstorms Mayhem students are Melissa Gray, Nathan Gray, Brian Jennings, Ben Krupkin, Jacob Krupkin, David Schunemann, Ben Streeter, Nathan Streeter, Dan Umenhofer and Vickie Umenhofer. Coaches are Ken Streeter, Bill Gray and Christopher Jennings.

      FLL, in its fifth season, seeks to encourage an interest in science, math and technology among students, ages 9-14, in a compressed, rapid-paced program. *This year*s challenge was particularly exciting because it made a current event -- NASA*s Mars rover landing next month -- relevant to each participant,* said Linda Lavoie, director for the New Hampshire tournament. *Students gain a broader appreciation of current events because they*re encouraged to recognize the challenges inherent in an event as well as hone their skills to solve those challenges. At the same time, everyone -- students and volunteers -- is having fun.*

      In October, more than 49,000 students from throughout the U.S., and 12 other nations accepted the challenge to solve Martian exploration and colonization challenges faced by astronauts and NASA engineers. For the past eight weeks, the 4,200 teams worked on their robotic solutions using LEGO* MINDSTORMS * robotics technology kits; strategizing, then designing, building and testing their solution to solve Martian exploration challenges. For the research element, the teams studied one of the challenge*s missions and developed a research question related to such issues as maneuvering and travel, Martian living conditions, space technology and alliances. They then prepared a presentation to demonstrate how robotics technology can address their question.

      In the Mayhem presentation, they discussed the need for energy resources and the practical application of a geothermal power solution, explained Nathan Gray, Mayhem team member. *Solar panels are too hard to keep free of the Martian dust; windmill blades would have to be too large to maintain and hamster power isn*t economical. So geothermal power becomes the obvious and practical resource.*

      At the New Hampshire Tournament, a robot*s performance was judged in a 2-1/2 minute round to accomplish certain tasks on an 8-foot by 4-foot tabletop, maneuvering around obstacles and creating alliances with other teams for maximum performance. For Mission Mars, tasks included clearing dust from a solar panel, loading and launching a canister from a MAV launcher, connecting habitation modules, freeing a rover and moving ice cores to base.

      Over the last six months, WGBH*s *Zoom* has documented the FLL program and entered a team in the New Hampshire tournament; the five-part series is set to air May 2004 as part of the popular education program.



    5. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/17/2003 14:34:25 GMT
      NH State Tournament Results (3 of 4)

      OFFICIAL RESULTS

      • Director*s Award (overall best performance based on five elements: robot design, robot performance score, research presentation, team work and FLL values)

        • First Place: Mindstorms Mayhem

        • Second Place: The Flying Geeks
          Team members are Dan Vaccaro, Cameron Fournier, C.T. Spaulding, Mike Hans, Rachel Bohanan, and Brian Gray. Advisor is Randy Bohanan


      • Technical innovative Design (most original approach to solving the challenge)

        • First Place: Team 50937
          Team members are Alice Arsenault, Julia Coffin, Caleb McCandless, Heather Parker and Will Scheffer. Advisor is Mark Kritlow

        • Second Place: Twitching Martian Masters, Amherst Middle School, Amherst, N.H.
          Team members are David Arsenault, William Carbery, Taylor George, Quinn Glover, Nicholas Murphy and Dennis Wilson. Advisors are Dennis Wilson and Joe George


      • Technical Robust Design (best mechanical design)

        • First Place: The Flying Geeks

        • Second Place: M.A.R.S. *The Virus*, Amherst Middle School, Amherst, N.H.
          Team members are Grant Davis, Jake Fiacco, Lizzy Fiacco, Kelsie Helberg, Sam Lowell, and Dustin Newhouse. Advisors are Mike and Vicki Fiacco


      • Technical Programming (program that best bridges the gap between robot hardware and team strategy)

        • First Place: Space Cowboys, Nashua Catholic Regional Junior High School, Nashua, N.H.
          Team members are Jeff Kelley, Brian Collette, Drew Garvey, Tom Indelicato, Vincent Cicchetti, Derek Huang, Matt Vegliante and Matt Fecteau. Advisors are Sue Kelley and Marray Collette

        • Second Place: The Munchkins, Community Team, Bedford and Jaffrey, N.H.
          Team members are Spencer Frank, Peter Aiello, Stephanie Schaeberle, Alex Nolet, Eric Nolet and Roxanne Harmon. Advisors are Beatrice Schaeberle and Chris Nolet


      • Research Presentation (best reflects an understanding of the issues and scientific disciplines involved in the challenge theme)

        • First Place for quality research: Batteries No Included, Hudson Memorial School, Hudson, N.H.
          Team members are Shawn Gould, Laura Gould, Daniel Holm, Jay Dupont, Bradley Poegel, Meghan O*Keefe and Michael O*Keefe. Advisors are Susan Gould and Ron Holm

        • Second Place: Martian Vipers, Community Team, Weare, N.H.
          Names not available.

        • First Place for innovative solution: Red Ice, Hudson Memorial School, Hudson, N.H.
          Team members are Joe Geoffray, Jim Hebert, Garrett Huang, Chris Melanson, Geoffrey Paguette and Brian Stewart. Advisors are Kevin Rochford, Mike Hebert, Dana Paguette, Renee Paguette, and Deb Warren

        • Second Place: Engine Ears, Londonderry Home School and Middle School, Londonderry, N.H.
          Team members are Ryan Landry, Daniel Farris, Brendan Brown, Andrew Lee, Andrew Law, Joseph Lavalliere and Peter Landry. Advisor is Randall Landry

        • First Place for creative presentation: Tekno Devils, Fairgrounds Junior High School, Nashua, N.H.
          Team members are Brian Pelletier, Nicole Gaudette, Sama Kadakia, Sesha Kadakia, Andrew Hugh, Dhishant Asorpota and Glenn Sweeney. Advisor is Skye Sweeney and Shefali Kadakia

        • Second Place: The Red Man Group, Hollis Brookline Middle School, Hollis, N.H.
          Team members are Chris Clement, Jeff Hammond, Zack Metea, Matt Papineau, Marty Perkins, and Ryan Schwers. Advisors are Scott Papineau and Mark Metea


      • Teamwork (team that best demonstrates partnership, respect and problem solving skills with other teams)

        • First Place: Zoom (WGBH - Boston)
          Team members are Mike, Shing Ying, Cara, Maya, Francesco, Kortney and Kyle. Advisor is Kristen Kelso

        • Second Place: The Pleiades, Dover, N.H.
          Team members are Emily Balch, Gwen Milliman, Hannah Coon, Molly Hearn, Stephanie Broido, Suzanne Hearn and Zoey Frocking.


    6. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/17/2003 14:44:21 GMT
      NH State Tournament Results (4 of 4)

      OFFICIAL RESULTS, continued

      • Rookie Award (rookie team that best shows promise) went to Mars Pets, Amherst/Wilkins Elementary, Amherst, N.H.
        Team members are Taylor Bardsley, Shelby Belak, Julie Harris, Samantha Jones, and Madison Thompson. Advisors are Peggy Harris and David Bardsley

      • Team Spirit Award (team that most enthusiastically demonstrates a commitment to the challenge) went to Liquid Fire, Auburn Village School, Auburn, N.H.
        Team members are Kara DiNatale, John Grossmith, Ben Hart, Tommy McCarthy, Dillan Murray, Dan Pelletier, Tyler Pepin and Shayne Swart. Advisors are Jill Greely, Becki McCarthy and Eric Murray

      • Performance Award (highest scoring team robot in the tournament elimination round)

        • First Place: Robosquad, Embed, Inc., Groton/Dunstable, Ma.
          Team members are John Cushion and Ari Lathrop. Advisor is O. Lathrop

        • Second Place: Spoink, Pennichuck Junior High, Pennichuck, Nashua, N.H.
          Team members are John Close, Karrinda Deleija, Paul Duvall, Stephen Griffin, Chris Lamere, Daniel Miller, Ben Prichard, Brian Russo, Ryan Snyder and Alan Soto. Advisors are Paul Lamere, Laurie Conrad and Colette Valade

        • Third Place: Mindstorms Mayhem

        • Fourth Place: Flying Geeks


      • Judges Awards (recognizing remarkable achievements)

        • Against All Odds went to The Dumples, Mastricola Middle School, Merrimack, N.H. Team members are Erik Hamnquist, Gavin King, Michael Skarda, David Porbunderwala, Josh Moberger and Ken Aborn. Advisors are Fran Leach and Ross Martin

        • Gracious Professionalism went to Robo Hobos, St Catherine*s School, Manchester, N.H. Team members are Matthew Dumont, Alli Sarazen, Stephanie Demetry, Michael Lazas, Greg Denis and Lydia Denis. Advisors are Liz and John Demetry, and Paula and Fran Denis


      • Young Adult Coach/Mentor (high school or college student whose support and guidance best demonstrates FLL values and objectives) went to Kristen Kelso, Zoom

      • Adult Coach/Mentor (individual whose support and guidance best demonstrates FLL values and objectives) went to Steve George, Merrimack

      • Outstanding Volunteer went to Skye Sweeney, Nashua, for a variety of leadership roles and contributions to the local league effort. A long-time FLL volunteer, Sweeney wrote this year*s coach handbook, planned and led two local tournaments and contributed to the New Hampshire State tournament Web site.



Discussion: Indiana Regional - Notre Dame By: Bremen Botz! 12/13/2003 02:01:40 GMT
Our team was able to post a 356 at the Notre Dame regional yesterday. The scores should be available soon at http://www.nd.edu/~fll

Les Turner
Bremen Botz! - 195

  1. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 12/09/2003 21:32:44 GMT
    356! Wow, I don't think I've heard of a better score being reported. Could you give us a short, general description of the missions you attempted and how they were done (no technical details)?


    1. Message by: Rusty Engineers 12/09/2003 22:15:27 GMT
      That's impressive.
      Can I assume the only thing you did not accomplish was connecting the habitation modules?
      Also, out of curiousity, why was that score so much higher than your other rounds?


    2. Message by: Bremen Botz! 12/11/2003 05:57:27 GMT
      There is a team in California that turned a 364...

      Our runs were inconsistent for a number of reasons. The first table we ran had 2x4's that were extemely rough. Enough to throw off all our wall following distances.

      The last table, we had everything except the 180 degree hab modules when the other team crashed and burned on the alliance module, knocking it onto our side of the table, keeping us from completing that mission. It also opened up the alliance module when it hit. Overall we feel lucky to have gotten a good run in.

      During practices the robot runs 400's about 1 of 4 times. We still have a state tournament this weekend, so we will see what happens.

      Hopefully the tables will be more consistent!

      Les ---
      Bremen Botz! - 195


      1. Message by: 12/13/2003 02:01:40 GMT
        Deleted


    3. Message by: Bremen Botz! 12/11/2003 06:11:56 GMT
      Our missions are run in the following order...

      1 - We sweep the solar panel on the way to closing the Alliance Module with a clamp. (86 pts / :10 sec)

      2 - Retrieve Ice Cores (49 pts / :15 sec)

      3 - Retrieve Rover using a latch mechanism on the end of a lift (43 pts / :30 sec)

      4 - Deliver canister to MAV and push Habitation Modules into place. (49 pts / :15 sec)

      5A - Lower tetrahedron base and return to base. (39 pts / :10 sec)

      5B - Push closest boulder into circle, activate MAV launcher, put furthest boulder into circle, and end up in the crater. (90 pts / :25 sec)

      Boulder bonus 44 pts

      Program 5 has two stacks depending on the setting of a touch sensor.

      Les Turner
      Bremen Botz! - 195

      We will put a lot more detail on our website after the tournaments are over for everyone (for obvious reasons).


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/11/2003 07:20:05 GMT
        Bremen Botz, Thanks for sharing your mission strategy. The team I coach has a very similar mission scenario, also attempting to go for everything. If we qualify for the NH State Tournament in interviews Thursday night, then we will have a chance to see how well the team's robot works under pressure on a different table at the tournament this weekend.

        Are the times you posted only the run time of the robot? (Not including "transition time.") If your times above include transitions, then I am extremely impressed, as you would have a lot of time left on the clock! The team I coach has really struggled with trying to fit all the missions into the 2:30 time limit while keeping the missions as reliable as possible.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    4. Message by: Bremen Botz! 12/11/2003 15:43:21 GMT
      Those are simply robot run times... That leaves about :45 to make arm changes, realign, etc. Unless something really goes haywire, the operators have been finishing with 10-15 seconds left at the end of the run. Our team came up with some really innovative ways to line up the robot. It made it faster to setup, and more consistent in alignment.

      Our website is still showing the 2002 challenge, but after the tournaments, we will post MLCad drawings, RIS source code, and videos of the runs for the 2003 season.

      http://www.bremenrobotics.org
      Login: guest
      Password: guest

      Good luck with the interviews!

      Les Turner
      Bremen Botz! - 195


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/11/2003 17:19:48 GMT
        Thanks for wishing us luck tonight! The team has never tried their line-following programs on any other table, so there could be a lot of mayhem in their first try on a different table!

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    5. Message by: pennichuck864 12/12/2003 16:51:44 GMT
      Ken:

      So how did it go for your team at the thursday competition? I did see that one of the four tables didn't have proper/official lighting. I hope you were not on that table.

      The Pennichuck team were satisfied with their run. They managed to successfully complete all of the missions that were attempted. Now we just wait for that email.

      Good luck.

      Paul


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/12/2003 21:43:36 GMT
        Paul,

        Best of luck to your team, as well! It turns out that the lighting on the table does not affect the Mindstorms Mayhem team robot. Their robot does use line following, but the configuration of the light sensors means that the sensors work equally well in direct sunlight, typical indoor lighting, or even in the dark. (Yes, they've tested that!)

        However, this was the first time that the team ran their robot on a table other than the table where we meet. They weren't prepared for the fact that some of the tables last night were not level. Also, there seems to be a moderate amount of variation in contrast from mat to mat, so their line following routines didn't work as well as they had been at home. Two of their five missions ran into trouble last night. After the qualifier, the team came up with some tweaks that improve the reliability of those two missions. They feel they are ready, and so they are taking tonight off to be well rested for the tournament tomorrow. The robot is incredible to watch on their own table. By God's grace, they have a shot at possibly repeating last year's success on the performance table, but that remains to be seen tomorrow at the NH state tournament! I can assure you that the team will be doing a lot of praying!

        They are eagerly looking forward to the tournament. I sincerely hope that each team will demonstrate their best work tomorrow! From what I saw at the qualifier last night, a lot of teams have worked very hard, and will be competitive in every area. I am certain that a fun time will be had by all in attendance at the state tourney!

        Best wishes for all!

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Michigan State tournament results By: dragondevils119 01/24/2004 06:44:45 GMT
http://eng-sci.udmercy.edu/precol/fll/

  1. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 12/12/2003 01:23:14 GMT
    Congrads to the Dragon Devils. It was nice to see an all girl team win. Second year in a row for you correct?
    Wasn't that the loudest thing you have ever been too?
    We had a great time.


    1. Message by: dragondevils119 12/12/2003 02:52:42 GMT
      Thanks, Robo Rovers! Yes, it was our 2nd time. A very memorable and fun day. Don't know about you but I was in the middle of 8 screaming 13 year old girls. It was loud. A great time was had by all. Hats off to Dan Maggio who put on a fantastic tournament.

      Joe


    2. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 12/12/2003 06:08:45 GMT
      We had 10 kids in 4th, 5th and 6th grades. It was quite exciting. We just have to figure out how to be consistent on our robot runs. In practices we always scored in the upper 300's but couldn't seem to break 200 in the competition. The boys who ran the runs said the noise level was hard for them. I saw some kids with ear plugs. I wish I had thought of that. We did really well in the presentation though. Much quietier I guess.
      Laura


    3. Message by: dragondevils119 01/24/2004 06:44:45 GMT
      The Michigan Lego League Website has posted scoring by categories.
      http://eng-sci.udmercy.edu/precol/fll/2003/Team%20Positions.xls


Discussion: Oregon Results By: Red Planet Gladiators702 01/23/2004 00:10:11 GMT
The results from the Oregon tournaments can be found through this web page: www.ortop.org

By the way, how many teams ended up participating in the US this year? World wide? I don't think I've seen any final tally posted anywhere and I've had quite a few people ask about it.

Discussion: Texas Results By: Club BOB 02/01/2004 08:19:53 GMT
Results from the 2 Texas Competitions.

The North Texas FIRST LEGO League State Tournament was held at the Boys and Girls Club in Grand Prairie, Texas, on December 6, 2003. The following awards were handed out:

Director's Award

Team 223 Lego Squadron Grapvine Area Home School Association

1st Place Performance Award

Team 1852 United Robotics Plano Home School

Performance Award Finalists

Team 359 Lightening Waves Coppell Home School Association
Team 223 Lego Squadron Grapvine Area Home School Association
Team 1620 Eagles Pratt & Whitney

1st Place Research Presentation

Team 1620 Eagles Pratt & Whitney

Research Presentation Finalists

Team 223 Lego Squadron Grapvine Area Home School Association
Team 1852 United Robotics Plano Home School
Team 1056 The Supreme Hacker Parkhill Junior High
Ninja Lords

1st Place Design Award

Team 359 Lightening Waves Coppell Home School Association

Design Award Finalists

Team 1852 United Robotics Plano Home School
Team 1052 The Supreme Hacker Parkhill Junior High
Ninja Lords
Team 1654 Red Raiders TTU Grad Engineering

Teamwork Award

Team 223 Lego Squadron Grapvine Area Home School Association

Spirit Award

Team 1619 Monster's Ink Grand Prairie Boys & Girls Club

Judge's Award

Team 2385 Sunny Side Shrinks Richardson Home School
Association

---------------------------

South Texas FIRST LEGO League Competition results
70 teams met for this event on Dec 6, 2003 at Hogg Middle School, Houston:

Director's Award: 848 - Bay Elementary Eagle Robotics Team

Mentorship Award: Mark Meyers from team 675 - Robo Matrix from Collins Intermediate

Volunteer Award: Annette Sanchez

Robot Performance Award: 848 - Eagle Robotics Team from Bay Elementary
Robot Performance Finalist Award: 675 - Robo Matrix from Collins Intermediate
Robot Performance Final Four Award: 1362 - Extra Technology Robot Performance Final Four Award: 3771 - JHE RoughBots from Pearland Junior High East

Robot Design Award: 633 - American Robotics Academy
Robot Design Finalist Award: 675 - Robo Matrix from Collins Intermediate
Robot Design Finalist Award: 1503 - TEAM ICK
Robot Design Finalist Award: 3576 - San Antonio Robotics

Research Award: 1583 - Clear Creek Independent School District Research Finalist Award: 663 - NERDS Extreme from Clear Creek Independent School District
Research Finalist Award: 1587 - Walter Hall Elementary School
Research Finalist Award: 3576 - San Antonio Robotics

Teamwork Award: 663 - NERDS Extreme from Clear Creek Independent School District
Sportsmanship Award: 2412, 2420, 2421, 2423, 2424, 2444, & 2445 - Hogg Middle School Robotics Teams
Spirit Award: 991 - Pathfinders from Brookwood Elementary School

Judges Award (commitment to robotics education for traveling the furthest): 1730 - RoboRebels & 1731 - Crater Raiders from North Gulfport (Mississippi) Magnet School with honorable mention of 3705 - St. James Science and Math Academy (Greater New Orleans Area)

Discussion: Maryland results posted By: Robomaniacs 02/11/2004 08:48:01 GMT
The results of the Maryland tournament held on January 17, 2004 can be found here : Maryland Results

Discussion: Quinsigamond Community College Tournament Results By: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/29/2004 07:30:15 GMT


  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/29/2004 06:54:37 GMT
    QCC Tournament Results (1 of 4)

    The 1st Annual Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) FIRST Lego League Tournament took place on Saturday, Feb 28, 2004. The tournament was extremely well staffed by an enthusiastic bunch of well-organized volunteers! After starting the day off behind schedule with a rookie group of FLL tournament workers, the judges and other volunteers actually managed to recover schedule to finish the tournament on time! Plus, they did this while not compromising on giving all of the teams full-length sessions with technical and research judges. I was very impressed!

    There were 19 teams in attendance at the tournament. Each tournament was given their own classroom to use as their "pit area." This was great in that teams could set up a practice mat and/or table, have space to program their robots, practice their research presentation, and gain a little quiet space from the hubbub if needed. However, I did miss having all of the teams in a large pit area where it was easy to have students browse the displays of other teams and have more opportunities to talk with each other! These classrooms were also used for the research presentation judging and the technical judging. (The judges went to the teams, rather than vice versa.) One benefit of the classroom approach was that teams could set up for their presentation in advance of the judges arriving to keep the judging schedule moving smoothly.

    The research judging was conducted by having three different judging panels view research presentations. After all teams were judged, "research finals" were held where the top teams from each panel were judged by a single panel of judges.

    The performance competition used a very unique three-stage format which had a lot of advantages, even though it was initially confusing for participants. (It is even confusing to explain!) The first stage of the performance competition consisted of three rounds on the tables for each team; the second stage was a 6-round triple elimination field-reducer" for ALL teams, and the third stage was a single-elimination tournament for the last 8 teams (quarterfinals, semifinals, finals). (Yes, the finalists had as many as 12 runs on the tournament tables!)

    The highest score by a team from the first stage rounds was used to determine seeding for the second stage (a 6-round triple elimination "field reducer"). This second stage consisted of two "sub-stages." The seeding for the first sub-stage of the triple-elim was done as "power matches." That is, the #1 seed would play against the #2 seed, and so on, all the way down to the 18th seed playing the 19th seed. (Due to the odd number of teams, the top three teams each also had one bye in this sub-stage.) Those teams that won at least one of the three matches in this sub-stage earned entry to the last three rounds of this sub-stage. The last three rounds of the sub-stage used traditional seeding (first vs. last, etc.) As a result of these last three rounds, the field of 19 teams was reduced to just 8 teams that had each lost less than 3 matches in the 6 rounds of the "field-reducing" stage.

    For the final stage of the performance competition, the final 8 teams were in a traditional single-elimination tournament. (Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals.)

    [NOTE: The next three postings in this discussion continue unofficial results from the tournament. The postings are too long to be placed in a single message. If you post a followup, please do so after the last message, to keep this sequence together.]


    1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/29/2004 06:59:00 GMT
      QCC Tournament Results (2 of 4)

      The tournament organizers gave a lot of awards! There were 30 awards given in all; every team received at least one award!

      In sum, the tournament was an exciting event, with some neat innovations in tournament format. The facilities were exceptional, with a nice auditorium, clean classrooms, convenient concessions, 8 tournament tables (4 pairs), and MANY helpful volunteers.

      The tournament organizers definitely deserve many kudos! Congrats to Brad Lauer and the entire tournament staff on putting together a fun tournament where the kids were all treated like royalty!

      I also particularly want to commend the "Frozen Vikings" on their integrity and gracious professionalism. In the first of the "power matches," the Frozen Vikings and my team, Mindstorms Mayhem, both had excellent rounds. However, when the scores were posted from this round, the Frozen Vikings edged out Mindstorms Mayhem 360 to 319. However, the Frozen Vikings realized that the Mayhem table was accidentally mis-scored from the proper score of 362. The Frozen Vikings noticed this, and notified the tournament scorers so that the score would be corrected. In my opinion, this sort of honesty and integrity is to be highly commended! It is not a common occurrence in professional sports to find a declared winner insisting that the score was incorrect and that the win should go to the other team! My vote for the "FLL Values Award" goes to the Frozen Vikings!

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/29/2004 07:00:46 GMT
      QCC Tournament Results (3 of 4)

      Initial Three Performance Rounds:
      Team         R1   R2   R3   Best
      ======================= === === === ====
      Frozen Vikings 290 327 293 327
      Mindstorms Mayhem 276 268 319 319
      Team 1744 176 205 319 319
      RoboMonkeys 317 256 254 317
      Longmeadow Black Riders 223 291 227 291
      Rust Rovers 271 193 217 271
      NRD 118 246 187 246
      Omega Constant 172 168 223 223
      Mill Pond Vikings 192 54 98 192
      The Matrix 178 129 140 178
      Pleiades 119 177 162 177
      The Flaming Mars 117 66 141 141
      Kwamima 100 113 132 132
      Woot! 67 117 66 117
      Devobot 97 109 109 109
      ALT (Rugrats) 61 98 74 98
      The Dorks 70 39 47 70
      Team 0818 39 39 41 41
      Team 0719 39 39 39 39

      The next 6 rounds were "triple elimination" to reduce the field to 8 quarterfinalists. Many 350+ scores were recorded in these rounds by multiple teams, but I do not have full results from this section of the tournament.

      Quarterfinals:
      ==============
      Team 1744 over NRD
      Mindstorms Mayhem over Flaming Mars
      Frozen Vikings over Pleiades
      Rust Rovers over RoboMonkeys


      Semifinals:
      ===========
      Frozen Vikings over Team 1744
      Mindstorms Mayhem over Rust Rovers


      Finals:
      =======
      Mindstorms Mayhem (400) over Frozen Vikings (343)


    3. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/29/2004 07:07:33 GMT
      QCC Tournament Results (4 of 4)

      Complete Award Listing:
      =======================

      Director's Award - Mindstorms Mayhem

      Technical Awards:
      1st Place Technical Award (Overall) - Longmeadow Black Riders
      Best Robot Design - Robo Monkeys
      Programming Award - Omega Constant
      Strategy Award - Mindstorms Mayhem

      Research Presentation Awards:
      1st Place Research Award (Overall) - Mindstorms Mayhem
      Creative Presentation - The Pleaides

      Performance Awards:
      1st Place Performance - Mindstorms Mayhem
      2nd Place Performance - Frozen Vikings
      Semi-Finalists:
      Rust Rovers
      Team 1744
      Quarter-Finalists:
      The Flaming Mars
      NRD (The Nerds)
      Pleiades
      RoboMonkeys
      Octa-Finalists:
      ALT
      Devobot
      The Dorks
      Kwamima
      Longmeadow Black Riders
      The Matrix
      Mill Pond Vikings
      Omega Constant
      Woot!

      High Score Award: Mindstorms Mayhem (400)

      Teamwork / FLL Values Awards:
      Teamwork Award -- ALT
      Team Spirit Award -- The Dorks
      Best Effort Award -- Kwamima
      Good Neighbor Award -- Longmeadow Black Riders
      Against All Odds - Devobot

      Most Valuable Players (Outstanding Volunteer Awards)
      Bonnie Logan
      Paul Slukis
      Al Tessier



Folder: Alabama 11/14/2003 02:17:19 GMT


Discussion: Practice Rounds....anyone??? By: Elysium Robotics 11/14/2003 02:17:19 GMT
Is it possible to get together to have a practice match. We are new to this and do not have any idea as of what to expect. None of us have even seen a competition.

Michele

  1. Message by: CraterManiacs450 11/14/2003 02:17:19 GMT
    We're from another state, but we usually get stopwatches and have our own practice rounds. the coach pretends he or she is the referee and has the team practice telling the ref they are ready, listening to the 3-2-1-go, and trying their missions under the time constraints. It is great, and is probably more worth your time to do it this way, because you get a good idea of what missions you will be able to do, and other glitches that might come up. Good Luck!

    Crater Maniacs 450
    Springfield, VA
    Jeannine Burgett- coach


Discussion: Howdy By: roboticmeltdown2998 11/05/2003 21:59:19 GMT
Hey Ya'll, were the black fiddle from Birmingham, Alibama I like down home cookin' from my mom, whose also my girlfriend
pardon,
Stu Pdasso

  1. Message by: Settlers of Mars 1883 11/05/2003 00:11:38 GMT
    Hey, do you know if you can put the sample canister on the rover before you start your missions?


    1. Message by: 11/05/2003 00:16:46 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/05/2003 00:17:52 GMT
      Try reading the messages here:
      http://www.firstlegoleague.org/scripts/webx.dll?13@@.ee95a97

      -Skye


    3. Message by: DupperMcGee3553 11/05/2003 21:59:19 GMT
      If you get someone for a practice round, can we come too?
      We are first timers also & have never seen a competition.
      Thanks!


Discussion: missing piece or backorders???? By: SJS111 11/08/2003 01:51:47 GMT
We have a rotation senser that is on backorder and not supposed to be here until CHRISTMAS!!!! we are supposed to be all done by Dec. 6th (since compition is the next day) and all our formulas are based on wheel turns!! any ideas or new formulas to try....anyone?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/08/2003 01:51:47 GMT
    ebay normaly has rotations sensors available.
    So would www.bricklink.com

    -Skye



Folder: Alaska 12/12/2003 01:19:38 GMT



Folder: Mission strategies 12/02/2003 00:23:07 GMT


Discussion: Dual Habitation module mission By: Ice Dragons 211 10/29/2003 03:08:06 GMT
I think this mission is great, and there is already lots of discussion about it. What do other teams think about it? Should we all plan on making that our first mission? That way, we can all try for those points? Should we try and assemble something that completes it for both teams, but only one has to do it? Let's hear some ideas, because I know our team would like to get that one done early.

  1. Message by: Debugs483 09/17/2003 18:45:38 GMT
    Hey Ice Dragons!

    This mission is stumping everyone on our team as well. We were thinking of pushing up our half of the base, then the other team would deal with the other half. However, the other team might not choose to do that mission, leaving us both in the lurch. Since the lists are printed out early, maybe we should try and find our oppenent, then discuss that mission.

    DeBugs**


    1. Message by: Ice Dragons 211 09/19/2003 22:33:14 GMT
      How can you get your own half to stay up though without the other team pushing up their half? Do you think it's possible to leave a large LEGO piece or something that helps hold it up so that you can go off and do other missions?


    2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/19/2003 22:36:10 GMT
      Consider them your alliance partner not your apponent! Sounds like a plan to me.

      -Skye


    3. Message by: Debugs483 09/20/2003 21:39:03 GMT
      When we built the model, the half that was pushed stayed up... Hmm... I think we need to do some more testing.

      Leaving a Lego brick probably wouldn't work, because the mat is quite slick. A tire perhaps?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/20/2003 21:56:11 GMT
        Triple check your construction! Each side should swing
        freely. The instructions are not suggestions!

        -Skye


      2. Message by: Ice Dragons 211 09/21/2003 22:05:55 GMT
        I like the tire idea. That probably would stay in place. Yeah, double-check your construction, because ours won't stay up unless they are connected with the magnets.


    4. Message by: Debugs483 09/23/2003 06:06:02 GMT
      The side that you push will not stay up when mounted, but on the flat mat, it works like a charm. We only figured this out tonight, much to our chagrin.

      However, if you leave one of the big, flat tires in place, the side will stay up quite nicely. But, it would still be a good idea to check with your opponent before the match to see if the mission will be attempted.


    5. Message by: TananaEagles362 10/27/2003 23:11:06 GMT
      I think that you should leave this mission for last and then collaborate with the other team on it if you both have time.


    6. Message by: TananaEagles362 10/27/2003 23:11:07 GMT
      can you use lego ruberbands?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/27/2003 23:16:59 GMT
        Try reading the section in the FAQ on allowable parts.
        http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq
        Your answer is there along with answer to a bunch of other
        questions you have yet to ask!

        -Skye


    7. Message by: Mechamoose3858 10/29/2003 03:05:29 GMT
      Tires or treads for robots? Please reply.


    8. Message by: Mechamoose3858 10/29/2003 03:08:06 GMT
      How do you change the lego face image next to our name?


Discussion: The Ice Cores By: Martian Bulldogs 201 12/02/2003 00:23:07 GMT
Our team (the Martian Bulldogs) needs a lot of help with this mission. We really need a suggestion for a tool, or an arm, something like that to help us to complete this mission.

  1. Message by: Mechamoose3858 11/05/2003 02:00:40 GMT
    We need help too. I would suggest not using an arm because they fall off really easy. The best thing to do is to be able to get in the crater and pull the ice cores out. If you dont get into the crater, the ice cores have a chance of falling off the arm or crane. If anyone can help, please contact us. *<=-)---<


    1. Message by: Mechamoose3858 11/05/2003 02:05:48 GMT
      My team wants to know if we can take off the ice cores when we're inside the base. If anyone knows, please contact us. *<=-)--<


      1. Message by: cls1820 11/19/2003 21:43:18 GMT
        no


    2. Message by: Mechamoose3858 11/05/2003 03:20:41 GMT
      We need help too. I would suggest not using an arm because they fall off really easy. The best thing to do is to be able to get in the crater and pull the ice cores out. If you dont get into the crater, the ice cores have a chance of falling off the arm or crane. If anyone can help, please contact us. *<=-)---<


    3. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/05/2003 21:53:46 GMT
      we beleave that when you are inside the base you can olter your robot


    4. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/05/2003 21:55:17 GMT
      we beleav you can altter your robot when you enter the base


    5. Message by: Martian Bulldogs 201 11/07/2003 00:54:33 GMT
      When you are in the base, you can take the ice cores off.


    6. Message by: Ice Dragons 211 12/02/2003 00:23:07 GMT
      Yes, once the ice cores are in base you may handle them and remove them from your robot. This is a difficult mission, but it can be completed. My team has been able to successfully return all 3 cores about 80% of the time using a long arm.


Discussion: New year By: Ice Dragons 211 12/12/2003 01:19:38 GMT
Hey all LEGO competitors, we are looking forward to a great year. This is the North Star Elementary Ice Dragons in Anchorage. Let's keep this forum open and discuss everything.

  1. Message by: Debugs483 09/17/2003 18:48:17 GMT
    Hey guys! DeBugs here, out of Anchorage as well. Great to talk to you!

    DeBugs**


    1. Message by: legoator3350 10/29/2003 03:32:39 GMT
      legoators, from Hoonah, are here to DeBug the Ice Dragons


    2. Message by: Robosharks406 11/18/2003 23:04:11 GMT
      Fear the robosharks from NH we will MUUHAHAHAH


    3. Message by: TananaEagles362 12/10/2003 23:29:16 GMT
      we won the alaskan state tournament, where is the national tournament!!!!!!


    4. Message by: 12/12/2003 01:19:38 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: mi happy By: fookmi 11/17/2003 16:48:05 GMT
everyone stinks

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 22:27:15 GMT
    if any one stinks its you.


    1. Message by: blackfirs2 11/17/2003 16:48:05 GMT
      please dont sweare


Discussion: hello By: Ares463 12/03/2003 04:18:14 GMT
Hi' I'm going to live in Alaska when I grow up! Cool isn't it

  1. Message by: Mechamoose3858 12/03/2003 04:18:14 GMT
    wow!



Folder: Arizona 01/08/2004 18:49:53 GMT


Discussion: how do you win By: Debtors2Mercy 01/08/2004 18:49:53 GMT
i need to know how to win
i have no idea how
well
if you can tell me
do so

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/17/2003 21:47:49 GMT
    by writing a research paper


    1. Message by: Debtors2Mercy 11/20/2003 00:34:01 GMT
      we really need to know how to win. our robot isnt even done yet and were three weeks out from the comp.maybe we should stick to acting.


    2. Message by: Debtors2Mercy 11/20/2003 00:35:08 GMT
      hmph. well i wonder. maybe we should use the rcx to build the robot. jk jk


    3. Message by: Debtors2Mercy 11/20/2003 00:37:21 GMT
      hmm. already did that


    4. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 18:49:53 GMT
      Imo chinese-o. I-o live-o in-o Arkansas-o. o-o.



Folder: Arkansas 01/12/2004 16:53:35 GMT



Folder: Thank You! 01/12/2004 16:53:35 GMT
Our hats are off to all of those involved in organizing the FLL competition this last weekend. We had a great time.


Folder: Welcome! 12/12/2003 18:48:18 GMT



Folder: AHGDKH 09/24/2003 21:25:15 GMT
Yo my peeps! Your going down under your krusty toes.

Discussion: Let the games begin! By: HomeIsCool-1160 11/07/2003 03:17:24 GMT
HomeIsCool would like to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all of the teams participating in Arkansas in 2003 FLL Competition. May God Bless your efforts at working together to achieve the goals you set for yourself.

  1. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 09/09/2003 18:29:47 GMT
    THE ReD_TiTaNs459 IS READY FOR THE CHALLENGE.


    1. Message by: 09/15/2003 18:30:50 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: 09/24/2003 21:19:51 GMT
      Deleted


    3. Message by: 09/24/2003 21:27:49 GMT
      Deleted


    4. Message by: L.G.M.s1276 09/25/2003 21:42:43 GMT
      L.G.M.s online and ready to go out of conway Arkansas!


    5. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 09/25/2003 21:50:26 GMT
      Whats L.G.M. stand for?


    6. Message by: L.G.M.s1276 09/30/2003 20:42:07 GMT
      Little Green Men


    7. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 10/01/2003 21:22:49 GMT
      That's interesting...


    8. Message by: grobots2590 10/19/2003 02:13:38 GMT
      Do you have any good designs ideas for robots?

      Nick and Matt


    9. Message by: wd40s2305 11/07/2003 03:17:24 GMT
      we are from Mountain Home(where the tournament is being held) and as natives we would like to say we are looking forward to seeing you here



Folder: what happens if a construced building was to be destroyed on accident? 12/09/2003 00:32:34 GMT
Um,yeah.I think that the title explains it all.So,does anyone know what would happen?Would we be able to rebuild that piece?I just want to know.

Discussion: SNOW By: Prideolla 01/09/2004 21:51:50 GMT
Anyone have any brilliant ideas or plans if we get the expected snow?

  1. Message by: Robocats 01/09/2004 20:24:11 GMT
    Was the tournament held on December 13 or rescheduled for threatening weather? If it was rescheduled, what is the new date?


    1. Message by: Clean Up Crew 01/09/2004 21:51:50 GMT
      Rescheduled for Tomorrow!!!


Discussion: Red Titans are waiting for you.... By: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 16:58:21 GMT


  1. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 16:57:44 GMT
    Anyone wanna challenge the mighty Titans. Or is your mamma a loser?!


    1. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 16:58:08 GMT
      (No wait, just kidding.)


    2. Message by: ReD_TiTaNs459 01/08/2004 16:58:21 GMT
      cheesey llama



Folder: Atlanta 11/10/2003 23:51:14 GMT
What's up?

Discussion: yall in GA we live near u By: Ares463 11/10/2003 23:51:14 GMT


  1. Message by: Ares463 11/10/2003 23:51:14 GMT
    Send mail to (click on our lego person to find out)



Folder: California 12/09/2003 08:41:08 GMT



Folder: habitation modules 11/18/2003 06:14:29 GMT
hey, whose doing habitation modules?? give us the "schmall schmoes" some help on anything


Folder: State Tournament at LegoLand 12/07/2003 08:33:22 GMT


Discussion: How early do we actually need to be there? By: Red Dragons 1888 12/07/2003 08:33:22 GMT
Well, we're getting ready to go to the LegoLand tournament this Saturday, and are driving down from north of Los Angeles that morning. The schedule we were sent says to register at 8:00. This is our first tournament. Do any other teams know whether we have to be there that early? We'd have to leave at about 6 a.m. to make it, and some are carpooling. I think it says the pits are open at 8:30 and we give our research presentation at about 9:45. How much lead time do we need?

While I'm at it, what do teams usually bring? Legos, laptop, paperwork, and a banner? Wearing team T-shirts if possible? Did I miss anything?

  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/03/2003 15:36:26 GMT
    Red Dragons, Below is my "list of things to bring" to the tournament from last year. Our team was still working on their team bulletin board during the tournament, so you may not need things like a printer (for printing photos), however this will give you some more items to consider.

    --ken
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem

    ==========================================================================
    Checklist of items to bring to FLL Tournament:
    * Video and Photography Release Forms, Completed
    * Team Introduction Page (5 copies)
    * Blank team comment forms (5 copies)
    * Heavy-Duty, 3-prong extension cord (15'+), "flagged"
    * multi-outlet power strip (Isobar)
    * Roll of grey duct tape
    * Helper to watch practice table for 30 minutes
    * Team binder
    * Team nametags
    * Team tablecloths
    * Blank paper
    * Laptop, printer
    * Two robots, w/tackle boxes and I/R towers
    * plastic container for carrying robot
    * plastic container for hat/glove storage under table
    * 3.5" floppy disks (2) containing programs
    * Research presentation materials and props
    * Printed rules, team manuals, tournament roster
    * Extra batteries, fully charged
    * Cooler with lunches, soda, snacks
    * Roll of paper towels (for messes)
    * plastic trash bag
    ==========================================================================


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/03/2003 15:52:11 GMT
      What no ICBM?

      Just to add a few things to Ken's great list.
      1) Mat and field pieces (left in car) in case needed.
      2) Clipboard and paper for notes
      3) Stopwatch
      4) Autograph book and gel markers to keep team busy in off time.
      5) Camera to take pictures.
      6) Ear plugs.
      7) Tylenol and/or other favorite medications!

      -Skye


      1. Message by: Red Dragons 1888 12/07/2003 08:33:22 GMT
        Boy, I thought you were kidding about the earplugs!


    2. Message by: boys2551 12/03/2003 22:04:03 GMT
      We are coming from LA too. I have driven to Legoland I would estimate it at 2 1/2 hours.

      I would also like to know the schedule. Where did you find out the research presentations are at 9:45? Is that your specific time or when the judging starts?

      When do they talk to the team about their robot building?

      boys 2551


      1. Message by: Red Dragons 1888 12/03/2003 22:27:45 GMT
        The schedule came with our tickets. I think the presentation time is specific for our team. It doesn't say when robot design is discussed.


Discussion: how do tournaments work in CA? By: LordsOfTheSprings1002 10/14/2003 08:01:31 GMT
Hi---I'm a rookie coach coaching a rookie team in Southern California (Santa Monica) and am wondering how the tournaments work. So far on the tournament list, there are 3-4 smaller tournaments in Northern California, some of which are qualifying tournaments. The only tournament in S. California is the state tournament in Legoland. Is there a qualifying tournament in S. California? Thanks in advance!
Michael Chwe

  1. Message by: LordsOfTheSprings1002 09/18/2003 20:22:58 GMT
    Hi---I found out the answer to my own question---Lynn Crockett at Legoland told me that no qualifying tournaments are necessary to partcipate at the Legoland tournament. You can apply directly for the Legoland tournament starting Oct 6.
    Thanks,
    Michael


    1. Message by: Droid1616 09/19/2003 00:54:25 GMT
      There a a lot of teams that apply to the Legoland tournament. Your team is selected to fill about 35 positions(?) by Lottery.
      Maggie


      1. Message by: boys2551 10/03/2003 21:19:39 GMT
        I was told that it is the first 35 teams that apply are you sure they are admitted by lottery?

        Leslie


    2. Message by: NCaFLL 09/23/2003 20:07:31 GMT
      Northern California teams should read the information at
      http://ncafll.home.comcast.net
      To attend the Northern California tournament on Dec. 7, teams must qualify at at regional. Teams must also apply for the State tournament on the FLL web site(during Oct. 6-17) so we know how many teams are interested in attending the state tournament. Depending on demand, between 20% and 40% of teams will qualify.

      Steve putz


    3. Message by: boys2551 10/03/2003 20:30:20 GMT
      Is Legoland the only So Calif competition?

      Jane


      1. Message by: NCaFLL 10/03/2003 20:54:41 GMT
        There is now a local San Diego competition listed for Dec. 13. However, the Southern California Tournament is not using qualifyiung regionals. For Southern California, you just apply at the FLL site the week of October 6 and they have a lottery to decide who gets to go.

        For Northern California, you also apply the week of October 6 for the State Tournament in San Jose, but you must also attend a regional qualifier.

        http://ncafll.home.comcast.net/


      2. Message by: 10/11/2003 00:08:27 GMT
        Deleted


      3. Message by: MegaBlock Destroyers 1490 10/12/2003 20:04:44 GMT
        11/22/03 Saturday
        Manhattan Beach Middle School, Manhattan Beach
        Local event currently being organized by rookie FLL teams.
        We are planning for 16 teams. 7 teams currently signed up.
        Not officially sanctioned as a regional competition, but at least two spots have been reserved at the LEGOLAND event for winners in two divisions:
        1. Elementary (Grades 5 and below)
        2. Open (Ages 9-14)
        We expect to have TV news and newspaper coverage.
        Contact: LeRoyNelson@earthlink.net

        12/13/03 Saturday
        Cal State University Northridge
        One week AFTER State Tournament at LEGOLAND.
        Contact: wwooten@lausd.k12.ca.us


    4. Message by: Beach Cities 2984 10/14/2003 08:01:31 GMT
      To register for the LA Regional FLL Tournament hosted at Manhattan Beach Middle School send an E-mail to TeamRegistration@elementalmediagroup.com


Discussion: Are there teams in the San Luis Obispo area? By: cutten1882 10/29/2003 02:26:32 GMT
I know someone in San Luis Obispo who has an interest in starting a team next year (i.e. 2004). He would like to view a team in action. If you have a team in the area and are willing to have a visitor for one of your sessions, please let me know.

Thanks

John Galle
Cutten Gearheads, Eureka, CA

  1. Message by: Some Assembly Required 10/02/2003 22:22:43 GMT
    There are two new teams in the area. We're both plodding along. Not really sure what we're doing, but doing none the less. Have your friend mail me and I can arrange something.


    1. Message by: Some Assembly Required 10/02/2003 22:23:51 GMT
      Oops - forgot my email...
      dbillings@atas.k12.ca.us

      Dennis Billings
      Some Assembly Required


    2. Message by: leopards265 10/29/2003 02:26:32 GMT
      if you bring back the ice cores, can you bring them back one at a time, if nessary?


Discussion: FLL teams in Los Angeles area! By: TheWarriors3550 10/14/2003 07:52:54 GMT
I just wanted to know where any other teams in the Los Angeles area are located.

I am coaching two teams in Palos Verdes Estates (although we have students from Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills Estates, & Torrance too):
1) The Warriors - 3550
2) Pink Fuzzy Bunnies of Doom - 3949

Karlene

  1. Message by: MegaBlock Destroyers 1490 10/11/2003 03:15:09 GMT
    There are at least 5 teams in Manhattan Beach

    3 teams at Pennekamp Elementary (mostly 5th graders)
    Coach: Gail Hayes (Computer Lab Assistant)
    Contact: GHayes@manhattan.k12.ca.us

    1 team representing other elementary schools
    Coaches: Aaron Braskin, Ken Brenan
    Contact: FIRSTLegoLeague@elementalmg.com

    1 team at MB Middle School (mostly 6th graders)
    MegaBlock Destroyers 1490
    Coach: LeRoy Nelson
    Contact: LeRoyNelson@earthlink.net

    There is a team in Redondo Beach at Tulita Elementary.

    There is a team in Hawthorne at an elementary school.


    1. Message by: robotsrule1187 10/12/2003 23:16:25 GMT
      There are also 2 teams in La Canada (5th thru 7th graders).
      robots rule


    2. Message by: Beach Cities 2984 10/14/2003 07:52:54 GMT
      Check the listings, the sign ups for the LA regonal Tournament are now open. Space is limited so sign up soon.

      Ken Brenan
      Tournament Director
      LA.FLL.Info@elementalmediagroup.com


Discussion: San Diego Local Tournament Needs Teams By: Tritons2652 11/05/2003 03:01:04 GMT
The San Diego Local Tournament is in need of 5 more teams to register for the competition on December 13. If your team is interested please email aliewer@ucsd.edu

  1. Message by: lcorbiters3607 11/05/2003 03:00:21 GMT
    Hello, Tritons
    I come in peace.


    1. Message by: lcorbiters3607 11/05/2003 03:01:04 GMT
      have you read pendragon


Discussion: The Ice Cores By: Martian Bulldogs 201 11/21/2003 23:08:31 GMT
Our team (the Martian Bulldogs) really needs a lot of help with this mission. Should we build an arm or something like that?

  1. Message by: lcorbiters3607 11/08/2003 20:25:42 GMT
    yes, use a claw


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 22:03:56 GMT
      yes


    2. Message by: Ares463 11/10/2003 23:32:33 GMT
      can you spell your governers name?


    3. Message by: 11/15/2003 01:04:49 GMT
      Deleted


    4. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/15/2003 01:08:28 GMT
      Hay from Canada aye. Hows it going aye.My teams really whipin up some good plans aye.I think we might even win aye.Well I got to go chop some wood and drink some pop aye.I drink almost 8 cases a day aye.
      Im like a camel aye.


    5. Message by: SMMS 11/21/2003 23:08:31 GMT
      For the ice cores you can just use a plain old axell attachment to your robot. Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      Team SMMS connecticut USA :)


Discussion: worm gear By: schmallschmoes106 11/19/2003 00:35:32 GMT
will a worm gear be helpful for picking up the canister and dropping it in the MAV launcher?

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/18/2003 21:48:49 GMT
    Can you please tell us what is a worm gear is?I am new,so I need to understand this stuff.So please write back


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/19/2003 00:35:32 GMT
      Looks like a section of hotdog with a spiral cut on the
      outside edge. The spiral engages a gear.

      -Skye


Discussion: legoland results wanted By: boys2551 12/09/2003 08:41:08 GMT
Hello, Does anyone know where we can find the final results from the competition. Also we would love to access, via the interned, a tape of that winning table performance. Finally, our team would love some feed back from the judges as to what they found noteworthy about the winners in the various categories. The one judge was very inspirational telling the kids how the winner had found a way to incorporate each of the allowed sensors.

We had so much fun and learned so much we are ready to sign up again for next year.

Sputnik

  1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 12/08/2003 21:44:36 GMT
    Do you know what the high score was? Our state tournament is in a week and we are trying to figure out what scores have to be to place well...

    Thanks,
    Les Turner
    Bremen Botz! - 195


    1. Message by: boys2551 12/08/2003 23:22:15 GMT
      The high score was 364. But don't be to worried the next highest was 260 I think.

      I that is why I want to see a tape. I want to know how they did it. It was an incredible team all their scores were very high. I would like to show my kids what can be done.

      I foudn some wisconson results in the main forum if you poke around.

      sputnik


    2. Message by: MegaBlock Destroyers 1490 12/09/2003 08:41:08 GMT
      I attached the final scores from the LEGOLAND tournament.


Discussion: For furture practice By: Placerita 12/08/2003 18:34:23 GMT
Now that Legoland has finished, we are looking at what we can do to prepare for next year. One suggestion was to get previous year mats and run school competitions.

Does anyone know where I could get challenge mats and sets for previous years.

  1. Message by: Red Dragons 1888 12/08/2003 18:34:23 GMT
    I saw one on eBay once



Folder: Changing Pieces 01/03/2004 02:37:07 GMT
Can we change parts of the robot between each missions?

Thanks for your help



Folder: Colorado 11/12/2003 00:21:12 GMT


Discussion: MAV Launcher By: Martian Bulldogs 201 11/12/2003 00:21:12 GMT
Our team(Martian Bulldogs)need help launching the sample canister. Does any team have any ideas?

  1. Message by: ColoradoFLL7001 11/07/2003 19:04:35 GMT
    In the Mindstorms for Schools book there is a robot that has many attachments. One attachment is an arm that can launch ping pong balls. This might be a good start.
    ~Jenny


    1. Message by: Marskateers 11/07/2003 19:26:53 GMT
      Does anyone know whether you simply run into the MAV launcher with your robot to launch it?

      Also, do you have to place the canister with the ball into the MAV launcher.


    2. Message by: AMS Express 94 11/12/2003 00:21:12 GMT
      Marskateenrs yes you can run into the launcher to launcher but it is a good idea to not move the launcher from it's asingned place.


Discussion: Colorado State Tournament By: ColoradoFLL7001 11/07/2003 19:02:58 GMT
The first ever Colorado State Tournament will be on December 6 in Golden, Colorado. For more information go to
www.coloradofirst.org/all/register/.

  1. Message by: ColoradoFLL7001 11/07/2003 19:02:58 GMT
    Sorry go to:
    http://www.coloradofirst.org/fll/register/
    to register.



Folder: commnications 10/15/2003 21:39:56 GMT
Would anyone know about a good website that has some info about communications on Mars?

Discussion: Curiosity By: Tekno Devils40 10/15/2003 21:39:56 GMT
Are we talking voice, data or both?
Are we talking to and from Earth or just on the surface?

I do know that the last mission to Mars used 'off the shelf'
Motorola wireless modems to talk from the lander to the rover.
Not sure where I learned this. Goodness knows what they used
to talk back home.

For Earth to Mars, NASA uses the Deep Space Network. Three
clusters of high gain antenaes around the world. You can find
them using "DSN NASA" from google or yahoo.

-Skye Sweeney


Folder: Connecticut 01/20/2004 17:11:38 GMT



Folder: New Tournament Listing 01/20/2004 17:11:38 GMT
We are holding an end of the year tournament at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, Mass! We wanted to invite the teams from Connecticut that we haven't seen much of all year to participate. The tournament will be held on February 28th, if you are interested, please contact Betty at blauer@qcc.mass.edu

Discussion: About our CT team By: Homeschool2568 11/10/2003 15:13:50 GMT
Hello from Groton, CT. I see 10 other teams listed so far for CT. Hope to get to know you. We are a team of 8 homeschooled kids, new to First Lego League. Some of the kids have older siblings who have participated in First Robotics. We are excited to be involved.

  1. Message by: andover722 09/30/2003 03:08:30 GMT
    hello from Andover, Ct. We are new this year also. The leader's children have been involved with the FIRST Robotics and that's why I have brought it to Andover. You will be wonderfully surprised!!! Ask a couple of the robotics kids to help you!!!


    1. Message by: RoboLeopards5 10/08/2003 01:05:57 GMT
      Welcome aboard from team 5. This our second year


    2. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:18:19 GMT
      Hi! This is Alex of the robotic 10 from WMS in woodbury. we've made some progress on our robot but our mat has not come in yet so we can't build our attachments yet. We built a sweet half-track, but unfortunately if we used it, we wouldn't have enough motors for attachments! I was wondering what some of the other designs were that people were using.


    3. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:24:36 GMT
      what are treres


    4. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:27:08 GMT
      If anyone knows what treeds are please tell us.


    5. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:27:56 GMT
      Hi! This is Brendan from the Robotic Ten Team. We are from the Woodbury. Middle School in Woodbury., Conneticut. I am a programmer and I was on the Robotic Ten team last year. We haven't gotten our mat yet so no one has started building or programming. I hope we do well this year.


    6. Message by: LARRI3001 10/16/2003 01:27:45 GMT
      Hi! LARRI 3001 here from South Meriden. We're a mixed group 5th, 6th, 7th graders from a neighborhood association. We're in our second year. Last year we scored a first in teamwork at the CT tournament. Good Luck to everyone. Does anyone know how many teams tried to register for the CT tournament this year? Last year there were over 100 teams trying for only 50 slots. Does anyone know of any if there will be any qualifiers this year?


    7. Message by: LARRI3001 10/16/2003 01:46:22 GMT
      On your half track, have you tried using the differential to drive both tracks with only one motor. That will allow one motor for steering and one left for attachments.


      1. Message by: SMMS 10/24/2003 23:35:15 GMT
        Hi LARRI3001 my team talked to you and competed with you last year. We are team SMART. Do you remember? We should talk on the forum again. :)

        Team SMMS (SMART) Connecticut USA


    8. Message by: SMMS 10/24/2003 23:06:27 GMT
      Hi! we are SMMS if you have any advice on research tell us!!!!!!!!!!!


    9. Message by: craterraiders275 10/29/2003 22:38:51 GMT
      hi how is every one doing?? any one have the name crater raiders??


    10. Message by: LARRI3001 11/05/2003 02:38:58 GMT
      Hi SMMS, Glad to see you're back again. We'll see you at the state tournament. Try going to any of the NASA sites. There is a ton of stuff out there. If we find any more good sites we'll let you know.

      Team LARRI3001 - A LEGO ODYSSEY Connecticut, USA


      1. Message by: 11/07/2003 23:50:08 GMT
        Deleted


    11. Message by: SMMS 11/10/2003 15:13:50 GMT
      Good Luck, we hope we see you there, and we'll update you too.

      :) ;)


Discussion: building By: RoboticTen390 10/29/2003 21:39:30 GMT


  1. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:15:06 GMT
    which are faster wheels or treeds


    1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/08/2003 21:22:10 GMT
      RoboticTen390:

      Ultimately, the speed of the robot depends up on how the drive mechanism (wheels, treads, or whatever) is connected to the motors. The speed of the robot varies according to the size of the wheels, the size of the treads, and the gearing between the final drive (wheels or treads) and the motors.

      Without any other gearing, if the motors are connected directly to the drive axle, the larger diameter final drive will go faster, but with less power.

      With gearing, the maximum speed of the robot can be further adjusted. "Gearing up" can increase speed by giving up some power. "Gearing down" can increase power by giving up some speed. Choosing the appropriate speed/power combination for their robot is one of the decisions a team needs to make. The right answer really depends upon the team's strategy.

      That said, there isn't really a simple answer to the "Which are faster, wheels or treads?" question. Either can be made to be faster, or slower, depending on the choice of wheels, the choice of treads, and the choice of gearing between the motor and the final drive.

      For more information, see some of the excellent online resources on building FLL robots. Links to a few such resources can be found at http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net I would particularly suggest looking at the links for the "FLL FAQ" (Frequently Asked Questions) and the "Building Lego Robots for First Lego League".

      I wish your team the best! Have Fun!

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    2. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:22:55 GMT
      How is your robot coming?


    3. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:22:59 GMT
      what the heck are treeds?


      1. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:25:34 GMT
        I don't know check your spelling


    4. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:27:44 GMT
      treeds sound like trees so i think wheels would be faster than trees, theres your answer!


    5. Message by: LARRI3001 10/16/2003 01:42:25 GMT
      Speed also affects accuracy, if you're not using brake commands, as the robot will coast quite a bit after power is cut to the motors. Regardless of design, a more important characteristic to consider is robot "drift". How far off course does the robot drift to either side when a straight command is run for a distance across the field. this needs to be taken into account when navigating the field. Slower speeds will deliver more torque, too. If you haven't tried to get your robot into the crater yet, that's the best test on the field this year for the speed to power ratio. Several of our initial drive train designs failed to get into the crater reliably. Good Luck!

      Art Dutra - Coach


    6. Message by: SMMS 10/29/2003 21:39:30 GMT
      Hi LARRI3001. We are Team SMART from last year. I hope we can talk again.

      Team SMMS Connecticut USA :) ;)


Discussion: building By: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:27:39 GMT
whAT ARE TREEESSEE

Discussion: hi we are a connecticut team too By: SMMS 12/11/2003 23:06:13 GMT
lets talk and share information. :)

  1. Message by: Elkhorn Eliminators742 11/11/2003 00:00:04 GMT
    Hey, I'm on the Elkhorn Eliminators. I'm 11 years old and a girl? Hows your reasearch mission?


    1. Message by: SMMS 11/14/2003 01:36:57 GMT
      Our teams's mission is great. Is your team in the compettion? I my team sees yours there. Good Luck. :) ;)

      Team SMS Connecticut USA


    2. Message by: legogangstaz2617 12/11/2003 23:05:05 GMT
      hey we are the legogangstaz2617 and we are here to let yo know that Harriet/ bob our bot is gonna win


    3. Message by: legogangstaz2617 12/11/2003 23:06:03 GMT
      hola wanna chat
      we wish to the best to those whom we will demolish
      ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha


    4. Message by: legogangstaz2617 12/11/2003 23:06:13 GMT
      hey we are the legogangstaz2617 and we are here to let yo know that Harriet/ bob our bot is gonna win


Discussion: How far is everyone coming? By: Legomen2 11/05/2003 21:49:51 GMT
Just wondering. About what percentage of the way through are you. I would say we are about 60-75% done. Most of our programing is done, but there are still some problems with the robot.

Also, are you using wheels are treads this year (I personnally prefer treads, because they are usually more accurate. But they have more problems than wheels).

  1. Message by: SMMS 10/29/2003 21:38:06 GMT
    Our team is doing pretty well too. Lets talk more.

    Team SMMS Connecticut USA :)


    1. Message by: Reid Robotics 11/03/2003 17:20:45 GMT
      hgtkbloivhncgop[hkb,cgpo0khcfoimjy9pigocjvbkgfklvgkgoidrijkglftjd49pgjmtfiujgdorxid8fytg8relmhnhgfgbfjumnfgliugfdsfmsfdiOreoirgtjmgnfjjikmgnjfsdjuyhfujhidrffg,gmjuufj8uigdomgfmnfsdouygjimthpeuifouigmndffg]yttrkif
      []'[dsffguijomkgfop[i,kbcoigmjrgjgtgjuigrrgtuyntgrujgtrijumgtrmnjuiggfjfgklmlmkcxvmfloxfiomgbfvmjoijuimrgtujmigfbjmibvm klgfoufcvoigfujimkgfrmjkigjmiugfiuhfigjbvkmbvmkgf vbygh vngcxdcvmnm,mmngfccxvbmnm,mmnbvccvjumn nymjhb,khkhjhl,,go;i646u58tudtfgklgcjg95etjyoihgfkgho'cpk,gbopcfijkgh0[tfkghopgijgh9ib n,kl;hmjnxiocpivfjmgbkldfjgokmglknmghnhgmih[iojkhfpomjgpoitjhpmoghimhjopifrjhmoidfjmhpofijghp[ojhnmbv g.lhkhopifgtophikhhkfhipjhv,opuyho;milvgc jvhmolmk ghmughiujytfiopu


    2. Message by: LARRI3001 11/05/2003 02:46:24 GMT
      Hi Legomen and SMMS,

      We're trying to get our last program worked out. The hab modules, but trying to push them out of base is causing a lot of drift. Everything else seems to be OK with the robot and the programming. We've learned a lot since last year about good robot design. We're just getting started on our research project. We've picked our project and doing research now.

      Good Luck,

      Team LARRI3001 - A LEGO ODYSSEY


      1. Message by: SMMS 11/05/2003 21:49:51 GMT
        We are doing well too. Our team are doing well with the missions and almost half done with the reaserch. Can't wait to see you guys again. Good Luck!

        Team SMMS Connecticut USA :) ;)



Folder: dhms questions 11/28/2003 15:19:39 GMT


Discussion: ice core By: dh falcons 11/25/2003 20:59:01 GMT
what are you doing for the ice core?

Discussion: hi what is the best way to build attachments for the ice cores By: dh falcons 11/28/2003 15:19:39 GMT


  1. Message by: dh falcons 11/25/2003 21:09:23 GMT
    what is the best way to build attachments


    1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/28/2003 15:19:39 GMT
      Have you ever heard of originality? try it for yourself.



Folder: Equipment Questions 01/22/2004 21:35:15 GMT
Use this folder to discuss, comment or ask questions about motors, sensors, etc. here.


Folder: lubrication of lego parts 11/25/2003 16:26:59 GMT
Are we allowed to use any kind of lubricant on the lego pieces to decrease wear and tear on the plastic parts, like graphite or silicone spray? I'm trying to avoid the dreaded white dust syndrome.

Discussion: The rules forbid it. By: Tekno Devils40 11/25/2003 16:26:59 GMT
Check the rules. They specificaly forbid lubricants.

-Skye

Discussion: Unofficial FLL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) available By: Tekno Devils40 11/25/2003 01:44:24 GMT
Fellow FLLer,

Please consider reading the Unofficial FLL FAQ before posting your
questions. The FAQ is the result of condensing the posting from
the previous two seasons. All the non-challenge specific questions
have likely already been answered. The FAQ has been updated for this
year's rule changes.

The FAQ was not authored by FIRST, but rather by coaches like you.

You can find the FAQ at:

http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

Skye Sweeney
fll-freak@comcast.net

  1. Message by: MississaugaAstronomicalRoboticScientists 10/20/2003 23:35:18 GMT
    Can we chose which oder we do the tasks in?


    1. Message by: harris-194 10/20/2003 23:46:14 GMT
      Sounds like this might be new to you. I highly recommend that you read the rules (in particular #13)( http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11250 ), the official Q&A ( http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11360 ) and the Unofficial FLL FAQ ( http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq )
      These will answer this question and probably a bunch you haven't thought of yet.

      Courtney
      Harris-194


    2. Message by: MississaugaAstronomicalRoboticScientists 10/20/2003 23:48:24 GMT
      Thank you Courtney Harris-194


      1. Message by: TheBobs 11/25/2003 01:34:21 GMT
        in the robotics,are you allowed to tape down the obsticles?
        if you are what ones can you tape down and what ones can you not tape down?


      2. Message by: TheBobs 11/25/2003 01:35:57 GMT
        in the robotics, are you allowed to tape down the obsticles? If you are what ones can you tape down and what ones can not be taped down?


    3. Message by: TheBobs 11/25/2003 01:21:37 GMT
      In the robotics team are you allowed to tape down the obsticles? If you are allowed to what ones can you tape down and which ones can't you tape down?


    4. Message by: harris-194 11/25/2003 01:44:24 GMT
      Please review the instructions for what field model pieces need to be attached to the mat (using included dual-lock). You can find these instructions here: http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11380

      Courtney
      Harris-194


Discussion: Light Sensors under Robolab 2.5 By: Americium1955 10/08/2003 21:23:19 GMT
We downloaded Robolab 2.5 firmware to the RCX. I attached a light sensor to show the kids how the view button works and how the light sensor readings vary over a white background and a black background. Under Robolab 2.0 the readings would be something like 72 and 42. The readings today were over 500 and made no sense. I haven't had time to investigate, but thought I would try the forum for any ideas. These are brand new kits we received last week.

  1. Message by: Americium1955 09/09/2003 07:39:14 GMT
    Just read the unofficial site and found that perhaps a simple program will make it work. This will most likely fix my mistake.


    1. Message by: Americium1955 09/11/2003 04:38:49 GMT
      Running the basic line following program had the light sensor working fine. The kids quickly had the robot following a circular track.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/11/2003 17:55:37 GMT
        Have you tried your line follower on the new mat?

        -Skye Sweeney


        1. Message by: Rusty Engineers 09/13/2003 19:30:55 GMT
          We tried it but so far the sensor has had a difficult time because the dark red is so close to the black in readings.
          Plus there are so many other fine black lines everywhere.
          Have you had any luck?


      2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/13/2003 15:27:18 GMT
        How about an explanation of your team name!
        I know that Americium is a radioactive element,
        but what does the 1955 refer to? Is that your
        team number?

        -Skye "Likes fun team names" Sweeney


        1. Message by: Americium1955 09/15/2003 08:03:29 GMT
          We are a new college prep charter school in Scottsdale, Arizona. Americium is the name of our 6th Preparatory Class (5th grade). 1955 is our team name, as per the instructions on the web site for registering on the forum. We have three teams and are thinking to expand to six. The kids haven't picked out their own team names, so I just used their class names.


    2. Message by: team 78 09/13/2003 02:00:43 GMT
      Hey Mr. Sweeney, I think I know where you're going with this!

      P.S. We tried this.

      Team 78 (No team name yet)
      Burleigh Elementary
      Brookfield Wis.


    3. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/13/2003 14:52:01 GMT
      Team 78 -- It's great to hear that you tried the line
      following on the Mission Mars playing field! Well, how
      did your experiment turn out? Is line following too
      difficult to be worth it? Possible, but requiring a
      total rewrite? Not too bad, with some tweaking to
      your programs? Or is it a walk in the park?

      -- Ken Streeter
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem, Team #63

      PS: We haven't tried it yet...


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/13/2003 15:29:26 GMT
        Boy do I fell left out! Our team has yet to meet.

        -Skye


      2. Message by: craterkids 09/15/2003 08:44:49 GMT
        We did some experiments today with two different line following programs we have. The first is a simple program that uses a single light sensor. The algorithm is very similar to one I've seen other teams use (a light sensor loop in Robolab that uses a fixed value that is the average of the light and dark readings to determine whether to go left or right). This program is a "tail wagger" that makes progress but can be a bit slow.

        We have another program that uses two light sensors and dynamically adjusts values as it runs. It is more sophisticated (especially if measured in the number of Robolab blocks required!) and interestingly enough this one had trouble on a couple of the lines. On most lines it did well enough although we did see it stray off the line a few times before "refinding" it. Overall this program results in a faster robot (less time required to follow a line) but the accuracy is such that we may have to rethink the dynamic part of it. The crater shadows are sometimes big enough to throw it off.

        I hope that's helpful to some and not *too* helpful to others. ;-)

        Happy line following on Mars!

        =Steve
        Coach of team 636
        Hacienda Crater Kids


        1. Message by: RobotScouts2595 09/30/2003 23:03:07 GMT
          hey,I think that those programs are bound to make your robot follow the lines and do the right things and win some points for its action we hope that the pro ject that we are doing will eventually turn up in the mail i hope to also be wroking on programs to help our robot follow the lines


    4. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/15/2003 01:51:48 GMT
      We dont even have our map yet!


    5. Message by: Americium1955 09/15/2003 08:06:48 GMT
      We haven't received the new mats yet. So I don't know how line following will work. I have rookie teams from Arizona, but I coached in Pennsylvania the last two years. In PA neither our team or the best performing teams used much line following anyway.


      1. Message by: craterkids 09/15/2003 08:52:24 GMT
        I agree that line following is not needed a lot, but in the robots I saw last year line following was almost always something that was selectively used at key points in the challenge. It is therefore certainly worth spending time on. After the line following tests we did today (see my other post) I'm thinking that a simplified form of line "following" might be the way to go. More tests are needed.


    6. Message by: Salt&Light Robotics 09/16/2003 01:39:13 GMT
      We played around with line following a little today. We found it real hard to get consistent runs. Just not enough contrast. We will work on it some more.


      1. Message by: R2D2Firedroids 09/17/2003 13:45:33 GMT
        The RIS kits come with a light. Will using the light add contrast and enhance the line following result? Is your program sensitive enough to detect a line as it crosses perpendicularly? Then store that "crossing" and use it to know when to turn, pivot, etc.
        Our team has just received our mat and it is quite dark. One may need to reproduce the tournament conditions with overhead florescent lights as you practice.
        Dr. Paul of the R2D2 Firedroids


    7. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/16/2003 03:36:57 GMT
      What algorithm are you using? Where is the sensor in
      relation to the mat? Is it shielded from ambient light?

      -Skye "Still struggling to find a meeting place" Sweeney


    8. Message by: team 78 09/17/2003 20:37:56 GMT
      Ken and Syke (and all),
      We are a rookie team (#78) of 10 year olds (8 boys, 1 girl) and have not found the "secret formula" to make the light sensor reliably stay on or "count" the large Black lines (let alone the small ones!) yet. Tried to shield it, but still had trouble. Also, to those who do not have their mats yet, the mat has large black running across. Therefore, no path to each "target".
      I'm using the approach of KISS with this team for obvious reasons. I still want the kids to explore this as it may be advantagious (as previously mentioned)to use once near the "target".
      I'm very fortunate to have the school that gives me excellent support in providing a room, LCD Projector and Storage of the table. And a PTO that has allocated $800.00 to run this team!!!
      Last thing (then I'll stop);
      I built the table so it folds in half, so its' easier to transport and is lighter than using 2x4's. It's very straight too, which was a concern.
      Terry Secora
      Team 78
      Burleigh Elem
      Brookfield, Wis.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/18/2003 04:33:44 GMT
        Terry,

        There may not be a magic solution. The contrast will be
        somewhat less, but should be enough to at least sense if
        not follow a line. Read the section on the light sensor in
        the "Building LEGO robots for FLL" masterpiece. You can
        find a link to it at http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net
        Understanding the sensor in detail may be very valuable.

        For a novice team what I am about to suggest is too
        difficult. But a light sensor can be used in a "powered
        raw" mode under RoboLab. In this mode, the sensor will not
        read percent, but rather analog-to-digital counts. In this
        mode the sensor is no more sensitive, but will give results
        that are between percents. This might give you a little
        more dynamic range.

        KISS is good. A supportive PTO is good. I too built a table
        that folds.

        -Skye "Have not tried our mat yet" Sweeney


        1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 08:22:27 GMT
          Has anyone tried using the investigator mode in Robolob to monitor values of the light sensor as it navigates around the 2003 mat? I'd be interested in hearing any comments on this idea. If I can figure how to get it to work perhaps I can post some observations.


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/20/2003 14:50:38 GMT
            Do you mean the Interrogate Mode?
            It is actually quite simple to use. You simply bring
            up the window and select from the various controls
            what you want to monitor. The PC then sends out a query
            to the RCX and the RCX replies. You can do this while your
            program is running. Of course there are some issues.

            1) All this query/response takes time away from running
            your program. Your program will behave a bit differently.

            2) The query/response only happens about every 3 seconds.
            Lots of detail is lost.

            3) The tower must be visible to the RCX at all times.

            Now I guess I will share my ultimate secret weapon. My team
            uses this feature not to monitor, but to control the RCX
            during testing. We use it to adjust all the magic values
            in a program. You will notice that not only can you read
            the values of a container, but you can set its value as
            well. We replace a constant in the program with a container,
            and download the program. We then run the program and use
            the control to adjust the value. Since we do not have to
            re-download the program, we can find the magic number fast.
            Then we replace the container with the constant and move on
            to the next constant.

            This message will now self-destruct....

            -Skye


            1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 20:24:02 GMT
              Skye,

              Thanks for the "secret weapon". A brief philosphical aside (skip to the next paragraph if you're not interested in reading this). I've discovered that there are primarily two camps in the FLL space: those who like to share ideas and information and those who prefer to closely guard everything about their designs, etc. I found the former camp helps the kids more and in the end that's why we're all doing this, right? :-)

              Back to my original question - in my version of Robolab (2.5.3) there are three buttons that appear on the first startup screen: Administrator, Programmer and Investigator. My limited understanding of the last is that you can have your program collect data while it runs, download the data to your computer afterwards and analyze it. I think this might be useful in getting a better idea about what your robot is actually "seeing" and "thinking" while it runs its programs. I'm planning to dig into this a bit to see if it would be an appropriate tool for our team. I'm also planning to try your technique. Our kids are familiar with using containers so that will be a useful thing for them to try.

              Thanks again,

              Steve


              1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/20/2003 20:52:21 GMT
                You are trully interested in Investigator. Investigator
                does allow you to collect data and store it to the datalog
                and review the data latter. Good luck. I played with it for
                a while but did not think it was worth digging into. The
                first year, it was a matter of teaching basics, the second,
                a matter of building a sub-vi library, and this year...
                Well this year we are thinking of something VERY different!
                I like to share, but after the season!

                -Skye


              2. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 09/29/2003 00:11:19 GMT
                I've discovered that there are primarily two camps in the FLL space: those who like to share ideas and information and those who prefer to closely guard everything about their designs, etc. I found the former camp helps the kids more and in the end that's why we're all doing this, right? :-)

                Not entirely. Yes, FLL is ultimately about learning, but it's also a competition. It's the competition aspect that gets the kids interested and keeps the focused, so it has a purpose in enhancing learning.

                I don't mind sharing information about logistics, rules, how to use the software, etc. However, I wish people would NOT discuss their private strategies for accomplishing missions, special programming tricks, etc. In other words, everyone should have the same basic information input (level playing field), but should be on their own when it comes to clever ideas about how to use that information (the competition part).

                One of the great experiences for the kids is to go to a tournament and see all the completely different solutions to the same problems. Many of them will be solutions they didn't think of. Others will be solutions they did think of but rejected, but maybe with a new wrinkle that makes them workable. Yet others were rejected for good reason (yes there are an amazing percentage of totally clueless teams at tournaments).

                Please don't spoil this by talking about your clever solution, and I promise I won't talk about ours.


          2. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 09/28/2003 23:58:55 GMT
            I haven't played with the investigator mode. But, you can use the VIEW button to display the light sensor values on the RCX LCD and see the readings in real time.


      2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/18/2003 18:02:20 GMT
        Terry,

        I think your team is on the right track with respect to
        using the light sensor with this year's mat. Having the
        robot keep track of its location is a key to reliability.
        Doing this with feedback from the playing field (bumping
        into things, light, touch) is essential for precision at
        the far end of the table.

        Those big black lines on the 2003 mat have got to be useful
        for this somehow. However, last year, lines could simply
        be followed to most of the mission models. This year there
        aren't such nice roads leading right where you want to be!
        Our team hasn't even tried any line following on the new
        mat yet, although I'm sure that they'll make use of the
        light sensor and those black lines somehow.

        KISS is also a key to reliability!

        I wish you the best!

        --Ken Streeter
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    9. Message by: team 78 09/18/2003 18:14:42 GMT
      Sky,
      Thanks for the valuable information! You have a great web site and I appreciate your sharing your experiences.
      Also, on another subject, I plan on using IS, instead of ROBOLAB, because it seems to be more intuitive and easier to use. I opened up ROBOLAB and could not find an easy way to get it into the "click and drop" mode for moving the blocks around that is like IS. I know ROBOLAB is more powerful and flexible but I think my team will get frustrated with it. Is this a good plan or I am missing a good opportunity to go with ROBOLAB?
      My plan is to continue to go through the tutorial(in IS) using the Acrobat sample. Once completed, I want the kids to work in pairs on the an individual mission item of their choice. I also want 2 kids to work on navigation and programming to get the 'bot to and from the BASE and or Crater.
      I tried having the kids build the Acrobot and found it difficult with 9 kids, so my son built it, so we get learn thru the tutorial, not just spending time building it. They all have Basic LEGO building experience, anyway.
      With all of your experience, does this make since?
      Thanks for your feedback and help,
      Terry Secora
      Burleigh Elem.


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/18/2003 18:29:36 GMT
        Terry,

        The decision between RIS and Robolab is a tough one.
        There are pros and cons to each. Skye's Coaches Handbook
        (see his website at http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net )
        has a bit of a discussion on this. There are also more
        considerations in the FAQ (also at Skye's site.)

        A maximum-score robot can be built using either RIS or
        Robolab. I think last year's top-scoring teams are
        proof of this once again.

        That said, I'll give our team's experience:

        We used Robolab in our programming. We started out using
        RIS at the beginning of the season until the kids
        understood the basics of making a robot move about
        with "timed" usage of motors. My assistant coach
        and I then had differing opinions about whether to use
        RIS or Robolab.

        I wanted to stick with RIS, as it is easier for the kids
        to learn, is much less frustrating with things like wiring,
        and is basically a better user interface. My assistant
        coach wanted to go with Robolab, as it is much better with
        "code reuse" with sub-vis, and has advanced features that
        are lacking in RIS. My assistant coach finally convinced
        me to have the team use Robolab. Looking back on that
        decision, it was one of the best choices we made all
        season. The ability to use sub-vis and have the kids draw
        their own icons for them is a complex idea at first, but
        makes it much easier to reuse little pieces of code.
        (Pieces of code like "turn right 180" or "go straight N
        rotations" or "veer right until dark" or "follow right edge
        of curvy line"...) Being able to program in these
        bigger "building blocks" that are debugged and work
        reliably is essential for having enough time to tackle the
        tricky missions.

        Admittedly, these reusable blocks can be used in RIS
        through "My Blocks," but there are some annoying quirks
        about "My Blocks", particularly with regard to updating
        them after they are already being used in multiple
        missions, that make the Robolab ones preferable in my
        opinion.

        What really matters is picking what works best for your
        kids. With elementary age students (rather than Jr. High)
        RIS has some distinct advantages, since the benefits of
        an easier GUI may be more significant at that age than
        the benefits of Robolab's more advanced features, which
        probably would just be confusing with that age group.

        Another option is let the kids try each, and see what
        they decide. (We tried both with our kids last year,
        and it helped muddy the issue -- they saw the benefits
        of each and the drawbacks, and were on the fence, too!)

        --Ken Streeter
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


        1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 08:36:06 GMT
          Ken,

          Excellent summary of the pros and cons of RIS vs. Robolab. I'll chime in with my two cents. Last year I coached a rookie team and we used RIS because it was all I had time to learn well enough to help the kids come up with solutions to the problems that inevitably arise. We encountered the quirky MyBlocks problem and I got fairly good at parsing and correcting Mindscripts code. This is not a technique I found particularly useful so this past summer I took the time to learn Robolab and our team has switched to that this year.

          The learning curve for Robolab is a little steeper but once you get the basic idea it is not that much more difficult. I was quite pleased to see how quickly the kids picked it up this year. I'm sticking with Robolab for good now.

          One interesting thing I learned about Robolab on Skye's site: the SubVIs are like macros and therefore don't give you any code size benefits - only subroutines do, which are not as nice for making your programs more readable. Our team has written several SubVIs and created custom icons for them. This makes the program tremendously more readable and for many of our sub-programs they only exist once in a larger program so the macro expansion problem isn't really an issue.

          Lastly I'd like to second the "any team can do well with either RIS or Robolab" comment. Our team finished in the top one-third of teams last year, which for a rookie team of only fourth graders pleased me to no end. We're hoping for an even better placement this year but it will be more due to experience than using Robolab over RIS.

          Best of luck,

          Steve


      2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/18/2003 19:00:28 GMT
        Thanks for the pat on the back.

        I like Ken's answer to your question. RIS or RoboLab is not normaly a simple choice. For me
        it was as the school uses NT computers and RIS will not run on NT. (LEGO are you listening?).

        Having used them both, I personaly would not use RIS. My team is older and the extras in
        RoboLab are just tooooo intoxicating.

        For a novice team, your biggest problem will simply be teaching complex programming skills.
        Use what YOU are confortable with. If RoboLab's GUI scares you, by all mean use RIS. After
        the season, consider trying out both. Perhaps even re-write your mission code in RoboLab.
        Then you can make a good decision for next season (you are comming back right?).

        If you want to try RoboLab but are still lost, contact me at fll-freak@comcast.net I can try
        to talk you through the learning curve. Or better yet, let the kids play with it an teach you!

        -Skye


        1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 09/28/2003 23:55:46 GMT
          I've been watching you guys debate RIS versus RoboLab, and think I should point out a third option. It's not obvious from the rules unless you're very familiar with Lego software, but you can write code directly in MindScript. Two years ago, MindScript was specifically mentioned as an allowed language. Last year this mention dissappeard, but Scott Evans eventually clarified that MindScript is an integral part of RIS, and is therefore an allowed language.

          Our first year, we used RoboLab because I wasn't aware of what MindScript was and RoboLab had some important concepts like subroutines. We won the Rhode Island first place performance award that year.

          Last year (our second year) we switched to MindScript and did reasonably well in the MA state tournament and also won the software award. The kids weren't too thrilled to learn a new language at first. They moaned and groaned a bit, but now admit that it's easier to get things done in MindScript and wouldn't want to switch back to RoboLab. You spend a lot less time fighting the language and the limitations of the GUI than you do with RIS or RoboLab.

          We're looking forward this year to having a bunch of existing code and a basic robot in place so we can concentrate on the missions.

          One note of warning, however. Don't try MindScript unless you or someone on your team is a professional programmer. The language itself is easy, but the compiler has a bunch of quirks and outright bugs that an inexperienced person will have a great deal of difficulty getting past. For example, despite what the documentation says, expressions with multiple operators on the same line just don't work. If you're familiar with compilers you can figure these kinds of things out before long, but if you're not, you will probably be beating your head against a wall for a very long time.


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/29/2003 01:21:57 GMT
            I am not sure what is going on with Mindscripts. I had it
            as a legal language in the FAQ before this debate. Now I
            am not sure what to do. I have not asked FIRST since this
            is not my 'fight'. The quote from Scott certainly does
            suggest that mindscript is on the endangered list.

            -Skye


            1. Message by: craterkids 09/29/2003 08:10:56 GMT
              Our team used RIS last year but have switched to Robolab this year so please excuse me if this is a dumb question, but can someone with more experience verify whether it is possible to open a Mindscripts program (i.e., any program written in Mindscripts) in the RIS graphical environment? If so then it would seem like Minscripts would be OK since you could always view and (rather tediously) print your programs from the RIS environment.

              On the topic of whether Mindscripts should be allowed my two cents is this: I coach a team of 4th and 5th graders and the GUI tools are acceptable but a text-only language would be too difficult for them. An older team (say one of 14-year olds) could probably get by with Mindscripts. This does make for a somewhat non-level playing field but I don't think Minscripts would really give a team that much of an advantage. I'll be interested to see what the "final" ruling is regarding the use of Minscripts.


    10. Message by: team 78 09/19/2003 21:22:05 GMT
      Ken, Skye,
      It's people like you that make this sport so darn exciting!
      Thanks for the great advise. I'm going to devote this weekend looking at ROBO and make a decision. (I'll have my 10 year old son help me)
      I have been visiting every web site and reading all the available doc's (including yours'!) out there, which is a great help to me, as well.
      Also, we had our 2nd meeting last night and I observed that 2(my son and his best friend) of the 9 kids had a good amount of Technic building experience and the other 7 had very little. There were many questions being asked. Therefore, the next meeting or two, I'm going thru "basic training" boot camp to show them some good examples that are already documented to give them the tools build with confidence.
      You can see that we have a very "green" team and no assistant coach either!!!
      This is what makes it so rewarding for me - for them to learn so much and have fun doing it! They are very eager and are very cooperative which has been a blessing.
      Thanks again for all your help and advise. I (we) really appreciate it.
      Terry Secora


      1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 08:48:41 GMT
        Terry,

        I couldn't agree more with your compliments to Ken and Skye. Thanks guys!

        Since you're talking about learning Robolab I thought it might be helpful to post a link to a web page I've created for the teams at our school. On this page you will find a number of sample Robolab programs. I've tried to document them as much as possible to make them a helpful learning tool. Comments and additions welcome!

        www.haciendarobotics.com/lessons/programming/library.html

        =Steve
        Coach of the Crater Kids
        Hacienda Elementary


        1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/20/2003 15:02:53 GMT
          FANTASTIC

          This is a great resource! A must read.

          I will consider what I might be able to donate to the
          library! Others should as well.

          -Skye


          1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 20:28:29 GMT
            Skye,

            That would be great! I'd love to add other programs to my site. Nothing is too small or too complex. Almost all of the programs on that page were written by our kids - I prettied up the alignment and added some comments. We've all learned a lot in the process.

            Thanks for the kind feedback, too!

            =Steve


    11. Message by: RobotScouts2595 09/30/2003 22:29:37 GMT
      everyone we have recived our maps there cool it has red just like the color of our mission its real nice


    12. Message by: RoboticTen390 10/08/2003 21:14:41 GMT
      can u mix any lego pices u my have even if they are from your house??


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/08/2003 21:23:19 GMT
        Please read the FAQ at:
        http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

        The short answer is yes.

        -Skye


Discussion: mat By: martian argonauts 11/24/2003 14:12:12 GMT
does anyone have a picture of the layout of the mat? we got one from some where last year and it was very heplfull in mission planning.

  1. Message by: Twitching Martian Masters 09/16/2003 04:46:30 GMT
    More specifically, does anyone have a overhead picture of the playing field that could be printed on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper? This would be perfect for strategizing when you're not standing at the actual table.

    Dennis Wilson
    Coach, Temp - A7 (temporary name)


    1. Message by: Robomaniacs 09/16/2003 06:40:14 GMT
      Dennis,

      I have several overhead pictures of the playing field. E-mail me and I will send them to you tomorrow evening.

      Mark Heil


      1. Message by: GYRO2817 10/03/2003 07:18:26 GMT
        Could you e-mail them to me at gyro.camp@cogeco.ca


    2. Message by: craterkids 09/16/2003 09:55:53 GMT
      I took an overhead photo of the mat this year but it came out a bit creased (I had just removed it from the box). It's still worthy of giving you a rough idea of the layout etc. Also, I used a drawing program to emphasize the outline of the pieces. Lastly, I made two versions of the drawing: one with a background image of the mat and one without. They're PDF docs so they're easy to view and print. Note: these are *very* unofficial diagrams.

      I hope folks find them useful. If anyone has better ones please post them.

      Hmmm, the Web UI here in the forum only seems to want to let me post one file at a time, despite the field title being Attachment*s* (plural). So I'm posting first the one with background and will follow with another post for the one without.


    3. Message by: craterkids 09/16/2003 09:56:55 GMT
      Mat diagram without the background image.

      Enjoy!

      =Steve
      Coach of the Hacienda Crater Kids


    4. Message by: craterkids 09/16/2003 10:01:26 GMT
      Sorry for all of the posts. It appears that the PDF docs did not transfer correctly. Here's a zip version. If this doesn't work just email me and I'll send you the files. (They're small - about 65K together).

      =Steve
      sdakin@sdakin.com


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/16/2003 13:54:58 GMT
        Steve,

        Thanks for the PDF files of the mat! They are a great help!

        --Ken Streeter
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


      2. Message by: RoboCards346 09/18/2003 19:02:52 GMT
        Please email me the docs at d.gilroy@sau47.k12.nh.us

        thank you,
        Doug


      3. Message by: GYRO2817 10/03/2003 07:25:05 GMT
        I can't opened the file. What program was it build in?


        1. Message by: craterkids 10/06/2003 23:47:04 GMT
          GYRO2817,

          I originally posted the documents in PDF format but wasn't sure it worked so I then posted another version in ZIP format. The easiest format for viewing is PDF - you need
          Adobe Acrobat Reader to view them (follow the link to download a free copy).

          I will email the documents to you in the hopes that you will be able to view them that way.

          =Steve


    5. Message by: HomeIsCool-1160 09/16/2003 17:06:44 GMT
      Thanks so much for making this available. It certainly facilitates the planning.

      Jeffery Jones
      Coach, Home Is Cool


    6. Message by: 220 Red Rocket Engineers 09/18/2003 19:17:14 GMT
      Thanks from team 220 in WI. We also found these helpful last year.

      Doug
      Red Rocket Engineers
      Oak Creek, WI


    7. Message by: juniorjedis1145 09/19/2003 19:08:11 GMT


      1. Message by: craterkids 09/20/2003 08:52:41 GMT
        Amazing detail and clarity! Thanks for posting the mat image. This one's going on the desktop of my laptop so I can stare at it while ruminating over the challenge missions.


    8. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/20/2003 21:09:12 GMT
      Does anybody have a few pictures of a table set up with
      the field pieces? I would like to include a few in a
      recruitment presentation I am making.

      -Skye


      1. Message by: BotCats29 09/23/2003 16:14:07 GMT
        Skye,

        I don't have any yet, but I'll take some tomorrow at our meeting and sent it along. If you want hi-res, email me on the side at BotCats@cfl.rr.com and I'll ship 'em off.

        Ken Ibold
        BotCats coach


      2. Message by: BNI927 09/23/2003 17:18:35 GMT
        I don't have them on the tabl;e, but I took some high quality model shots. They are posted at:

        http://www.hightechkids.org/ilfll/models2003.php

        --
        Dave April
        Coach, Batteries Not Included


      3. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/23/2003 17:28:28 GMT
        I got my pictures. Thanks for all the kind offers!

        -Skye


      4. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 09/29/2003 00:17:26 GMT
        Does anybody have a few pictures of a table set up with
        the field pieces? I would like to include a few in a
        recruitment presentation I am making.


        Not yet, but I plan on doing this and posting them to a web page like we did last year. We got off to a slow start this year. First the mat and pieces showed up late although we registered back on 1 May. Then I was sick.

        Anyway, we should finish the complete setup next weekend, so I should be able to post photographs shortly thereafter.


    9. Message by: Robomaniacs 09/24/2003 23:38:36 GMT
      I have a shot of Scott Evans table in New Hampshire. Hope it helps someone.


      1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/22/2003 17:05:21 GMT
        Wait, i am confused. The picture in the previous post shows the rover pointed towards the tetrohedron base... i thought it was suposed to be the other way around. Wich is right?


        1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/24/2003 14:07:53 GMT
          Yes, as far as I can tell from the photo, the earlier post shows the mission model rover pointed in the wrong direction. The mission model rover that is stuck on the sand dune should be pointed away from the base. The orientation is marked on the mat. Figuring out which end of the rover is the front is a little trickier -- if any of the kids are familiar with Star Wars' Millenium Falcon, however, then they won't have any trouble figuring out which end is the front!

          --ken
          Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    10. Message by: Marskateers 10/06/2003 17:58:51 GMT
      How far along should we be in preparing for the competition. It is October 6th, and the competition is November 22, '03?


      1. Message by: Mapcuanun 10/06/2003 23:36:43 GMT
        However far along you are is just fine! Each team will move at a different speed depending on many factors - age of the team, past experience or rookies, when you started, etc... I have one team beginning the programming and another team still working on a robot design that works. Good luck!

        Marie Hopper
        coach Mars Rocks and Mapcuanun


    11. Message by: Morton Magic 540 10/21/2003 20:50:44 GMT
      Do the Sample Canister and the Habitation Modules have a specific place on the field or do they just have to be in the general area next to the Tetrahedron Base? I have seen a couple of different pictures of layouts including the one on the FLL web site and all look a little different. If we don't have specifics, how do we program our robot to pick these things up?

      Donna Spudic
      Coach Morton Magic


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/21/2003 20:57:30 GMT
        Items that start in the base can be positioned however
        you want. For more info read the FAQ at:
        http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

        -Skye


Discussion: Challenge kit backordered By: phantoms2127 10/10/2003 20:49:26 GMT
Our challenge kit has been back ordered and I'm dealing with a group of anxious kids. I'm sure I can keep them busy for a couple practices, although it's difficult to determine what robot design is necessary without the field pieces.

Does anyone know when we can expect our kit? I've got to trim our numbers down to 20 which is difficult without our equipment.

  1. Message by: RoboCards346 09/16/2003 15:58:03 GMT
    I just called Pitsco. They started shipping back ordered kitts on the 12th


    1. Message by: firstknights319 09/18/2003 18:52:08 GMT
      I would recommend that you try to find another team in the area and plan a "field trip" to that school. Check out the team section or the state section and send out feelers. I noticed you are in Michigan and there are lots of FLL teams there. FLL people are noted for responding to other teams in need.

      Steve Kramp
      Caoch, FIRST Knights


    2. Message by: SpaceShots1826 09/19/2003 04:15:28 GMT
      FWIW, we got our kit today, just in time for our first meeting after the formal challenge announcement. I don't know if we were a backorder status or not, though, since another adult on the team deals with that side of things.

      Del Merritt, Coach
      Team 1826, now "Deranged and Mutant Martians"


    3. Message by: ilsgreen2170 09/19/2003 05:05:35 GMT
      phantoms2127, you should either have your may or be really close to having your mat if your check was to PITSCO in late August. Mine arrived Wednesday, September 17, and our payment arrived at PITSCO about August 28. I recall PITSCO shipping in the order of payment received.

      - Mark Beitz, coach


      1. Message by: phantoms2127 09/21/2003 01:35:35 GMT
        My kit arrived Thursday morning, in time to build the field pieces at our Thursday practice. One student's mom is coaching a team at the elementary school and had given me their CD. This allowed me to have the instructions printed for our practice.


    4. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 06:09:46 GMT
      As of yesterday we still have one team that has not received their mat yet that had it on backorder. They are hoping it arrives soon.

      I talked to Pitsco today and they said last week a big shipment of backorders did go out.

      I did have another coach tell me he couldn't find the buidling CD in his box.


    5. Message by: Roswell Raiders 164 10/10/2003 20:49:26 GMT
      Somehow our sample canister has disappeared. Any suggestions on how to get another one???

      Thanks in advance...


Discussion: Dual-Lock and Build Instructions CD By: SpaceShots1826 11/09/2003 19:07:04 GMT
I want to offer a huge THANK YOU to the FLL staffers who managed to both get us pre-cut Dual-Lock(tm) and also got the CD of instructions for us so we could avoid downloading it from the site. I haven't actually started sticking the Dual-Lock down, but the kids snagged the CD at our meeting today and got right to building!

I don't see any specific instructions for how/where to put the DualLock, but the fact that it's pre-cut just makes me want to do an FLL Coach's happy dance! If I get to it this weekend (the kids do the models, but I do the DualLock) I'll post my hints. If someone beats me to it, though, don't hold back.

For those who haven't seen the CD yet (or for some reason overlooked it), here's what's on it:

0 Apr 4 04:44 Adobe Acrobat Reader [directory]
24 Apr 11 06:58 AUTORUN.INF
1741726 Apr 9 07:40 180 deg. Habitation Module.pdf
1779987 Apr 9 07:37 90 deg. Habitation Module.pdf
92639597 Apr 4 05:49 All In One.pdf
23503474 Mar 31 04:39 Alliance Habitation .pdf
45606 Mar 28 07:35 Boulder.pdf
2262007 Mar 28 06:34 Crater.pdf
826359 Apr 9 04:58 Ice Core.pdf
112364 Apr 9 07:45 Infopage.pdf
12607980 Apr 9 05:24 MAV Launcher.pdf
2079104 Apr 9 06:18 Models List.pdf
799262 Mar 28 07:33 Parts List.pdf
3959513 Apr 9 05:01 Rover.pdf
95487 Mar 28 07:34 Sample Canister.pdf
1546397 Mar 28 07:29 Sand Dune.pdf
1059770 Mar 28 07:31 Solar Panel.pdf
42408253 Apr 9 05:19 Tetrahedron Base.pdf
41 Apr 11 07:43 ident
3126 Apr 11 07:00 lego.bmp

Again, thank you FIRST for listening!

Del Merritt, Coach Team 1826
Deranged and Mutant Martians

  1. Message by: harris-194 09/19/2003 05:10:48 GMT
    You'll find the dual-lock instructions via the Field Setup link under MATS & BORDERS ( http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11380 )

    Hope that helps,

    Courtney
    Harris-194


    1. Message by: spacecadets494 09/30/2003 22:31:02 GMT
      The alliance habitation module does not specify dual lock but it does say that the "model is secured to the absolute center between the two fields cross the back Border Walls of both fields." Should we secure it for our practice sessions?


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/30/2003 23:53:55 GMT
        Space Cadets: Yes, the alliance habitation module should be secured with dual lock to the top of the border wall. For a single practice table, you will need to mount a small section of 2x4 to the outside of the border. You will also need to mount a small stub of "floor" underneath the attached 2x4 for proper operation of the other side of the alliance module. (For hints on assembling this add-on, see Mats and Borders, particularly paying attention to the use of a "Dummy Board."

        There is a discussion elsewhere in the forum that included some information about attaching the alliance habitation module, entitled Clarification of Secured to the Center. That discussion should provide you with more info on this topic.


    2. Message by: redraiders76 10/09/2003 16:44:11 GMT
      Can anyone tell us (red raiders from the UK) does the 90degree habitation module need to be fixed to the table with the dual Lock ?


    3. Message by: harris-194 10/09/2003 16:47:07 GMT
      The 90 degree habitation module is dual-locked to the mat.

      See the Field Setup instructions for details: http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11380

      Courtney
      Harris-194


    4. Message by: BigRed2498 10/12/2003 12:58:39 GMT
      I cannot seem to find the link you are referring to. That is, I cannot find the "dual-lock" instructions. Could you be more specific?

      Thnaks!


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/12/2003 15:55:47 GMT
        http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11380

        -Skye


    5. Message by: BigRed2498 10/12/2003 13:01:41 GMT
      Never mind. What I am looking for are the instructions for building the units for each mission. We have some of the units already assembled, but not all. These are from a second kit avilable to us that did not include the CD.

      Thanks!


    6. Message by: Discovery3739 11/06/2003 08:13:17 GMT
      If someone would take pity on us, our district coordinator ordered the wrong challenge kit part number and we didn't get the cd with the build instructions. They are ordering it now, but I am frantic, since it is November, and we still have nothing to practice with. Please could someone email me the pdf files? I would be eternally grateful.

      carolann
      cfraenkel@shaw.ca


      1. Message by: ilsgreen2170 11/07/2003 03:34:01 GMT
        Carolann, some alternatives, as you are requesting files totaling 90,500 KB, which is a little big for most of our e-mail capabilities:

        Will PITSCO send you a CD at this point?

        Are you willing to accept a copy of the CD by regular mail? I can burn a CD.

        If this is practical for you (and I'm not sure if it is in British Columbia), you might also consider asking other local coaches to see if you can borrow a Challenge Set for your practice, then return it so they can practice. My 2001 Arctic Challenge kit was out for loan on Monday and Thursday nights for about half of that season while my team used it Sunday and Tuesday nights due to slow delivery service from Pitsco that year.

        You might also be able to hit up a coach with an early regional such as teams going to Appleton or Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Some teams will end their season if they don't qualify for a state tournament, although I'm planning some additional teaching whether or not my team qualifies for the state tournament. This route may not just get you a CD but the actual built pieces in a box.

        - Mark Beitz, coach


        1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 11/09/2003 19:07:04 GMT
          Carolann, some alternatives, as you are requesting files totaling 90,500 KB, which is a little big for most of our e-mail capabilities:

          Just to clarify the files total over 90Mbytes, not Kbytes. 90Kbytes wouldn't be a big deal to email.


Discussion: 2002 City Sights Parts List By: BNI927 12/10/2003 21:59:54 GMT
Hi all -

Does anyone have a parts list for last years challenge kit? I am trying to separate a kit that is now a combination of a regular Mindtorms kit, a team member's personal Mindstorms kit and the 2002 challenge kit. I want to keep the team pieces and be able to give the boy back what he owns. I figure I'm in for a long night of sorting. :(

Dave April
Coach, Batteries Not Included

  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/23/2003 14:14:05 GMT
    Dave,

    Unlike this year, I do not recall seeing a parts list
    for the 2002 CitySights challenge kit. You may need to
    assemble all of the models in order to be sure that you
    have the right pieces...

    Sorry for the bad news, but it could be fun assembling
    those all again! ;-)

    --Ken Streeter
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    1. Message by: BNI927 09/23/2003 17:15:48 GMT
      not the answer I wanted to hear, but it's a means to the end I want to achieve, so unless someone else has a better idea, I guess I know what I am doing tonight and tomorrow...

      Dave


    2. Message by: Legonauts4 09/23/2003 18:39:32 GMT
      Keep in mind that different versions of the mindstorms kit came with different pieces. Each version did come with a listing of parts for that version.

      Dave Kolberg
      Coach, #4 Explorers


    3. Message by: RoboVipers130 09/25/2003 13:20:41 GMT
      If you contact Pitsco Lego ( sorry I am at work and do not have the # handy) They can fax you a parts list from last years challenge. One of my teams was short parts last year and I needed to verify what was missing. Pitsco was extremely helpful!


    4. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 06:15:23 GMT
      I don't think there was a parts list for the CitySights set. Or if there was, I don't remember it. There was a pdf file you could download with building instructions so by default figure out what parts were needed.

      the CD this year is something new, no more big download just do build the playing field.


    5. Message by: PhobosHobos637 10/29/2003 05:16:24 GMT
      Here's an inventory of a Pitsco team challenge kit, circa 2001 (1of2)


    6. Message by: PhobosHobos637 10/29/2003 05:19:02 GMT
      Here's an inventory of a Pitsco team challenge kit, circa 2001 (2of2)

      There is an inventory of the Mindstorms retail kit is available at http://www.peeron.com/inv/sets/3804-1


      1. Message by: BNI927 10/29/2003 15:33:41 GMT
        PhotoHobos -

        Thanks for the reply. I was looking for the City Sights Challenge parts inventory, not the Mindstorms kit itself.

        Dave April
        Coach, Some Assembly Required


    7. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/10/2003 21:48:49 GMT
      Dave, This is surely far too late for it to help you out on the problem you were having back in September, but I put together an inventory of the parts in the CitySights 2002 kit based upon the instructions. I figured that I would post it here for posterity in case others ever have a need for it.

      The attached file is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet with the CitySights 2002 challenge set inventory. If you find errors / corrections, please email them to me!

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


      1. Message by: BNI927 12/10/2003 21:59:54 GMT
        Thanks Ken! It's still a great reference document since I cannabalized a bunch of City Sights parts.

        Dave


Discussion: 2001/2002 Challenge Kits Wanted to Buy By: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/23/2003 14:20:23 GMT


  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/23/2003 14:20:01 GMT
    Hello,

    I am looking to purchase a 2001 Challenge Kit (Arctic
    Impact) or 2002 Challenge Kit (City Sights) from teams
    that are no longer using their old challenge kit, and
    could benefit from the extra money to cut expenses this
    year.

    I would like to use the 2001 Arctic Impact kit to be
    able to do mini-challenges with the students on our team
    in the off-season. (There's definitely no time for extra
    activities during the regular season!)

    I would like to have an additional 2002 City Sights
    Challenge Kit in order to be able to set up a "dual
    tournament table" for demonstrations of the two-table
    setup. If you have an old challenge kit that you would be
    willing to sell, please let me know at

    fll-coach-streeter@solidrocksolutions.com
    .

    Thanks!
    --Ken Streeter
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Allowable parts By: Ice Dragons 211 11/20/2003 23:15:16 GMT
I know this has been discussed before, but I wanted to double check. When a team is allowed only 3 motors, or 2 light sensors, does that mean on the table at any one time. Could a team build an attachment that has 2 light sensors, and then while in base, change that for another attachment that also has two light sensors, but used differently? Or touch sensors, or motors, etc. Or can each team only bring no more than that number of items to the table?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/23/2003 23:50:31 GMT
    The grand total of what you bring to the table cannot
    exceed the limits of 3 motors, 2 light sensors, ....
    This is discussed in the FAQ at
    http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: Women in Black 58 09/24/2003 17:00:22 GMT
      I have Lego motorized simple machine kits that have small motors and weights. Are these allowable parts?
      Susan Buys Coach
      Women and Men in Black


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/24/2003 17:07:02 GMT
        Women in Black 58:

        I am not 100% certain, but I believe that the small
        motors would be allowed, but each would count against
        one of the motors in the 3-motor limit. (That is, if
        you use one of the small motors, it counts as if it
        were one of your large motors.) The weights (assuming you
        mean the weights that look like a 2x6x2 LEGO brick) are
        acceptable LEGO elements.

        -Ken Streeter
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    2. Message by: Women in Black 58 09/24/2003 17:19:39 GMT
      Thank you so much Ken. This is our second year working with mindstorms and we are finally understanding the nuances.

      Susan Buys
      Coach MIB and WIB


    3. Message by: MarsMonkeys 1113 09/29/2003 00:55:37 GMT
      Re. pneumatics--The FAQ say that pneumatics are allowed as long as the robot (not a human) operates them. Our question is: Can we fill the air tank manually in the pit before coming to the table? After that, the robot would release (and possibly refill) it. Thanks!

      J. Gallagher, Coach
      Funky Monkeys from Mars


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/29/2003 01:25:22 GMT
        Yes, you could fill the tank in the base and before the
        match. Before the match you could use a motorized pump.
        At the table, you could only use a motorized pump if the
        motor was LEGO (but it would count as one of your three).
        Of course you could use the large manual pump.

        -Skye


    4. Message by: Techno Saints 961 10/13/2003 00:44:03 GMT
      Can someone answer this question? Can we use any lego pieces as long as we use no more then 3 motors, 2 light sensors, two touch sensors, and 1 angle sensor? Can we use pieces from other lego sets?

      Thanks for the help. It's our first year and we need help.

      Techno Saints


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/13/2003 02:41:11 GMT
        Please read the FAQ at
        http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq
        It will answer many more of your questions. The short
        answer to your question is yes. The long answer is in
        the FAQ.

        -Skye


      2. Message by: Tecumseh Space Krustaceans 10/25/2003 02:21:58 GMT
        hey its our first year 2. yes i do belive that we can do that. but in the rules it discusses the electronic parts. there it says all of the elctronic u can use and thats, that. it also says u can use any normal peice from any set. as long as it is a lego product.(eg...no megablocks, or parts from action figures, no glue or tape ect.)hope i could help


    5. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/25/2003 21:06:39 GMT
      Do you think we can use parts from Lego Spybotics? Specifically the gears and parts used to make the wheels on the Gigamesh G60?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/25/2003 22:07:02 GMT
        Try Scott Evans (evans@usfirest.org) with this question.

        -Skye


      2. Message by: 10/27/2003 23:12:26 GMT
        Deleted


      3. Message by: thearmyoftheLord2882 10/27/2003 23:14:39 GMT
        This is our first year too but yes, you can use those parts. I'm pretty sure because I have a LEGO Mindstorms expansion set that comes with those parts.


      4. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/28/2003 00:44:12 GMT
        I have emailed Scott and I will let you know his response. My son also said that he saw these parts in a mindstorm set but before I gave the go ahead to use time to build I wanted confirmation.

        Thanks


        1. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/29/2003 23:25:48 GMT
          Here is the answer from Scott.

          "Hi Laura,

          Since the Spybotics product line has LEGO in the first word of its title, the parts are legal. What's more puzzling to me is why people are going to the forum for answers when the rules tell them they can come right here in the first place.

          Any way, have a good one!

          Scott"


    6. Message by: SMMS 10/30/2003 15:10:33 GMT
      can you put extra pieces on the board to complete the missions? :)

      Team SMMS Connecticut USA


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/30/2003 15:35:31 GMT
        Only if the robot places them there.
        -Skye


    7. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 11/02/2003 21:58:28 GMT
      Does anyone know if we are allowed to use Lego chain. I'm not sure if those pieces are technic or not. They do say lego on the links. The package says they are from the educational division. This would lead me to believe they are okay to use.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/02/2003 22:44:12 GMT
        Chain is ok. Any Technic part is OK.

        -Skye


    8. Message by: Oakview Martrix Team 11/03/2003 03:30:57 GMT
      Are we allowed to use the spinning gear or whatever the big
      gear that spins?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/03/2003 04:30:56 GMT
        Perhaps you should read the section in the rules that talks
        what parts are ok. All LEGO parts (Technic or plain) are
        allowed execept for the sort list of electrical parts.

        You can find the rules here:
        http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11250

        You can also find info on parts here:
        http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

        -Skye


    9. Message by: GYRO2817 11/04/2003 23:33:36 GMT
      Can Some Body Answer This Question?

      Do you know if we can use micro motors?
      If we can, how many?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/04/2003 23:41:43 GMT
        You can use one, but it counts as one of your three.
        The rules do not specify the type of LEGO motor you can
        use, only that you can only use 3.

        -Skye


    10. Message by: GYRO2817 11/05/2003 00:19:56 GMT
      Can Some Body Answer This Question?

      Do you know if we can use micro motors?
      If we can, how many?


      1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 11/06/2003 02:50:20 GMT
        Do you know if we can use micro motors?

        Yes, I do, since I've bothered to read the rules.

        If we can, how many?

        First, this same question of yours has already been answered in this same folder. Please don't ask the same question more than once.

        Second, this is clearly answered in the rules. I'm not going to answer it because I want you to read the rules yourself.


    11. Message by: URC3576 11/08/2003 01:01:22 GMT
      This probably sounds silly but we went to a special LEGO store and they sold LEGO T-shirts, mugs, foam swords, etc. They have LEGO printed on them. Are we allowed to use those?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/08/2003 01:54:02 GMT
        A quick scan of the rules would say no. The 'weird' LEGO
        products are not building elements. Also the FAQ say no
        as well.

        FAQ is at: http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq

        -Skye


    12. Message by: TeamTiger298 11/14/2003 23:53:35 GMT
      Black tape & cutting Pneumatic tubing.

      The FAQ suggests that cutting air hoses (a part clearly intended to be cut) is illegal. Can the tubing used to power cylinders and pumps be cut? Also, to avoid inadvertant reception of IR transmissions (from cameras for ex.) at last year's state tournament teams were allowed to put black electrical tape across the IR port (and only the IR port). We were prepared to build a shield out of lego parts. Will the tape be allowed this year too?

      -Jim


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/15/2003 00:07:35 GMT
        Tape is a 'house rule'. Talk to the tournament director.
        Please notice that most if not all black electricians is
        TRANSPARENT to IR light!

        As for cutting of the tubes, Scott has posted a Q+A
        responce to this question. Look for it under NorthAmerica,
        challenge 2003 on the left menu line. I think the FAQ
        is outdated. Have not had a chance to fix the FAQ as I am
        VERY busy with my secret project that will be unveiled at
        some of the (willing) state tournaments!

        -Skye


    13. Message by: Robohawk 2256 11/20/2003 23:09:47 GMT
      I don't see how tape could be a 'house rule' since it is clearly disallowed under rule 5.

      5. ALLOWABLE MATERIALS
      The Robot, its attachments, accessories, and all other strategic objects brought to a Match must be made entirely of LEGO elements in original factory condition. Electrical parts are limited to 1 RCX, 1 Rotation Sensor, 2 Touch Sensors, 2 Light Sensors, 3 Motors, 1 Lamp, 6 AA batteries, and 8 Wires. No other electrical parts are allowed. Stickers, paint, tape, glue, oil, etc. are not allowed, except marker may be used for owner identification in hidden areas only.


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/20/2003 23:15:16 GMT
        Tape can be a house rule, as tournament directors have some liberty to modify rules as they feel is necessary to conduct a tournament.

        Personally, however, I disagree with the use of electrical tape to cover the IR port. I think the teams should instead incorporate a Lego cover of the IR port in order to prevent the possibility of stray IR (such as from a remote) from causing a robot to go awry in a tournament. That said, I understand that some teams don't learn the importance of covering the IR port with Lego, and show up at the tournament vulnerable to being reprogrammed or sent astray accidentally. As much as I disagree with the use of tape to cover the IR port, I understand how the use comes about.

        The Mindstorms Mayhem team will have an IR cover made of Lego -- you won't find any tape on their bot!

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Rotation sensors By: L.G.M.s1276 11/12/2003 20:04:13 GMT
we need to know what the rules to how many rotation sensors we can have on our robot ???????

  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 09/30/2003 20:47:51 GMT
    LGMs,

    The 2003 FLL Rules (see rule 5) specify that only the following sensors may be used:

    "Electrical parts are limited to 1 RCX, 1 Rotation Sensor, 2 Touch Sensors, 2 Light Sensors, 3 Motors, 1 Lamp, 6 AA batteries, and 8 Wires. No other electrical parts are allowed."

    You may also want to take a look at the Unofficial FLL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to help you get started.

    --ken
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    1. Message by: L.G.M.s1276 09/30/2003 21:25:34 GMT
      Thanks ken. (rats!)


    2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/30/2003 21:59:23 GMT
      Ken's answer is right on the money (as normal). But do
      consider reading the book "Building LEGO Mindstorm Robots
      for FLL". A link to this manual can be found at:
      http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net

      -Skye


    3. Message by: AMS Express 94 11/12/2003 00:26:39 GMT
      we need to know how to use a rotation sensor for the crator to tell the robot to go slower. Any ideas on how to atach the sensor?


    4. Message by: Legonauts4 11/12/2003 20:04:13 GMT
      The rotation sensor uses an axle to turn the internals of the sensor. You can hook the sensor up to any axle already being used or connect the axle to a gear meshed to one of the gears between the motor and the wheel. You can either mount the sensor or just use the wire attachment to keep the sensor in position. You can find this and more in the coaches tutorials available from FIRST at www.usfirst.org/jrobtcs/flg_coach.htm

      -Dave
      Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605


Discussion: MAV Launcher By: team saints 12/01/2003 22:26:19 GMT
Just a word of advice on the MAV Launcher. It wears out easily. It is probably advisable not to leave the launcher in the compressed position overnight.

  1. Message by: stlukenanobots1043 10/03/2003 01:53:19 GMT
    I was wondering what a MAV launcher is and what is the purpose of it in real life if anything?


    1. Message by: craterkids 10/03/2003 02:06:50 GMT
      To fully answer that question would be to solve one possible research assignment. Our team chose the MAV Launcher as its research assigment mission so by the time the season is over we'll be able to answer that question rather well.


    2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/03/2003 02:49:39 GMT
      MAV = Mars Ascent Vehicle.
      It a way to return rock samples to Earth.

      -Skye


    3. Message by: M.A.R.S. Team 10/05/2003 20:20:32 GMT
      Can someone send the diagram for constructing the MAV Launcher? I believe it's called "mav launcher.pdf" Our school seems to have lost the assembly instructions and I don't have the CD. Please email it to ghayes4@cox.net

      Thanks!
      Glenda


      1. Message by: team saints 10/06/2003 00:32:30 GMT
        Try this link.
        http://www.challenge.hjernekraft.org/download/MAV_Launcher.pdf


    4. Message by: Jr Comets II 10/13/2003 21:05:02 GMT
      The purpose is to send orbital satelittes into orbit!


    5. Message by: RoboEagles2989 11/24/2003 23:00:46 GMT
      My first question is what dose the mav laucher do.
      My second questoin is how does it work
      My third question is how will it help us in the futuer.


    6. Message by: RoboEagles2989 11/24/2003 23:10:14 GMT
      My first question is what dose the mav laucher do?
      My second questoin is how does it work?
      My third question is how will it help us in the future?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/24/2003 23:19:12 GMT
        1) It launches a red LEGO ball like a catapult.
        2) It uses two springs and a trigger.
        3) You can take it apart and reuse the LEGO next year.

        -Skye


    7. Message by: RoboEagles2989 12/01/2003 22:18:45 GMT
      What is reason for the Mav Laucher?
      How was the real one built?
      How long did it take to build the real one?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/01/2003 22:26:19 GMT
        MAV is short for Mars Ascent Vehicle. Sometime in the next
        20 years, NASA wants to send a mission to Mars to return
        rock samples. To get them back will require a MAV. Some
        how I doubt it will be a catapult. It will more than likely
        be somekind of rocket like the LEM module that landed on
        the Moon.

        1) To get rocks back to earth.
        2) Has not been built.
        3) A very very very long time!

        -Skye


Discussion: mat problems By: andover722 11/12/2003 02:19:00 GMT
After being rolled up a few times, our mat has formed bubbles and creases. The clear film that coats the mat has peeled a little, causing the flaws. has anyone else had this problem? Does anyone have a way to fix them?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/03/2003 12:45:32 GMT
    Yes this is a very common problem. My suggestion is to
    keep the mat in place and do not move it. I would also
    suggest working with what you have because at competition
    you may have a mat in worse shape!

    See the FAQ for more info
    http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq


    1. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/05/2003 04:21:36 GMT
      We only have the table top made for our practices and we have to store it standing on its side. Is it advisable to attach the mat to the table in some way so that we don't have to roll it up after every meeting.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/05/2003 15:51:01 GMT
        I have done it both ways. It is certainly easier to leave
        the mat on the table. One year I glued it down. DO NOT DO
        THIS! The next year I used a staple gun to put staples
        along the edges and next to the Dual Lock in out of the
        way places.

        Of course the problem is that you can't take the mat with
        you when you practice at competition or away from your
        normal location.

        -Skye


    2. Message by: MetroStars378 10/28/2003 22:53:26 GMT
      We have a size difference with the mat and the table. The mat is 1 inch shorter on the long side and 2 inches shorter on the short side. Does anyone else have this problem? How will the mats be arranged at competitions? Is it possible that we have a defective mat? Last year our measurements were the same for mat and table. let us know soon. thanks, metro-stars


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/28/2003 22:56:10 GMT
        Wow! I would say you should measure the mat. It should be
        4 feet - 3 inches wide (45") and 8 feet - 3 inches (93") long.
        If not, you have a bad mat and should contact Pitsco for
        a replacement.

        -Skye


    3. Message by: 11/03/2003 03:37:13 GMT
      Deleted


    4. Message by: Oakview Martrix Team 11/03/2003 03:40:31 GMT
      Our mat has been scatched up bad, and we're worried our light sensors won't work, does anybody have suggestions?


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/03/2003 03:52:02 GMT
        Oakview:

        I don't have any suggestions for fixing the mat that is already scratched. I'm afraid that there probably isn't much that can be done to fix it. Cautioning the students about the importance of not dropping things on the mat may help minimize further damage.

        However, having some number of scratches on the mat may actually be a good thing, as it can not be guaranteed that the tournament tables will be perfect. (Plus, even if they are perfect at the start of the day, they will no longer be so by the final rounds at the end of the day!)

        Ideally, you want to use the light sensor in such a way that the operation of the robot is robust in the presence of minor scratches and damage to the mat. If the use of the light sensor is highly susceptible to scratches in the mat, then you will want to change your use of the light sensor, or adopt a more robust strategy.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


      2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/03/2003 04:36:02 GMT
        During Arctic Impact my mat got sooooo bad I tried a few
        things out on it. What I did find that helped was gentle
        heat applied with firm pressure. I used a small iron (model
        airplane wing covering iron) set at low heat. I pressed
        this down over the blisters with a cloth between. I
        GRADUALY raised the heat till the surface rebonded.

        It was not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but
        it did get us up and running.

        Ken's suggestions (as allways) are right on the mark . A bad
        mat might be a blessing.

        -Skye


    5. Message by: AMS Express 94 11/12/2003 00:36:09 GMT
      our mat has formed white crusting on the edge of our mat. Does anybody know what this is or have any ideas on how to fix it?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/12/2003 00:45:22 GMT
        Sounds like normal delamination. Do a search on delamination
        to find out what other people have done.

        -Skye


    6. Message by: Irken Invaders 11/12/2003 02:19:00 GMT
      Are you sure it's not the beginning of the formation of polar ice caps on the surface of Mars? It's getting to be that time of year...

      Coach Mark
      Irken Invaders


Discussion: Adding parts By: Jr Comets II 11/05/2003 01:28:17 GMT
Are you allowed to add parts to your robot between mission attempts? We are a new team and need help getting started. Anyone with advice out there, please help us out! ( ,,,thanks)

  1. Message by: Jr Comets II 10/06/2003 21:24:19 GMT
    Does anybody know if you are allowed to move the canister holding the ball along with the ball?(...thanks)


    1. Message by: Marskateers 10/06/2003 21:32:07 GMT
      Yes, you are allowed to add lego parts during each mission. I was told it is better to remove parts, between missions, than to add parts, because of all the excitement and commotion.


    2. Message by: R2D2Firedroids 10/07/2003 01:18:22 GMT
      The canister holding the ball is just that, a holder to keep the ball from rolling around. The ball is the actual sample package to be delivered to and then launched by the MAV to successfully score the maximum for this mission. The canister does not need to (and probably shouldn't be) transported to the MAV catapult. The canister, the ball and the 180 degree habitation modules may be moved around anywhere inside the base by the team members at the table before and during the round .
      Paul Bresnan
      R2-D2 Firedroids


    3. Message by: Jr Comets II 10/13/2003 21:02:27 GMT
      Does anyone know an easy way to get the ball and canister over to the MAV laucher without having the ball fall out of the canister? We don't want the ball to roll around the table so we would have to chase after it. That would waste time!(thanks,,,,)


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/13/2003 21:28:29 GMT
        Comets, The "black barrel" with the red ball does not need to be brought to the MAV launcher. The "black barrel" is simply a prop to have the red ball sit on in the base so that it doesn't roll away in between matches. When the time comes for your team to make a mission attempt, when your robot is in the base and not "running," you can take the red ball and place it in/on/next to your robot by hand. After pressing the green button, your robot then does whatever it does to get the red ball loaded into the MAV launcher, and activates the launcher.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


      2. Message by: Martian Bulldogs 201 11/05/2003 01:28:17 GMT
        Yes, there is an easier way, you could make a claw that could reach the ball without touching the ground and,drop the ball into the MAV launcher from the side,and then launch it by running into the back.

        Sincerly,
        Martian Bulldogs


    4. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/16/2003 04:02:32 GMT
      I apologize in advance if this is a question that has already been answered but there are so many threads that even after read for hours it seems like I am not finding the exact answer. I know it is possible to add and or change attachments to the robot that will help in completing the missions. What I don't know is does that attachment also have to be completely inside the base at the start of each mission? Assuming then that it would now be part of the robot. Or is it legal for the attachment to hang outside of the "Great Wall"

      Thanks in advance.


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/16/2003 04:40:58 GMT
        Roberts Robo Rovers: The short answer is that the entire robot (which includes any currently connected attachments) has to fit entirely in base at the start of each mission. Attachments that are not currently in use can be sitting on the floor or held by one of the team members.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    5. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/16/2003 17:20:22 GMT
      Thank you Ken for the quick answer. I thought that was the case but after reading so many different post I started to get myself confused.


    6. Message by: Tecumseh Space Krustaceans 10/25/2003 02:14:46 GMT
      Hey dudes, du u guys have any suggestinos for clearing the solar pane, iut should be easy but we are having trupble finding something nice and easy....thanx alot


Discussion: RCX Malfunctions By: Badgerbots 10/24/2003 18:33:51 GMT
We are a 2nd year team. We had but a few problems with the RCX last year. This year we are having lots of problems. The problem I need help with is the robot not executing when we hit the run button. It typically occurs after finishing one run cycle when it just won't do anything. When it does this the only thing that works at all, only works some of the time and that is to turn it off, back on, switch to a seperate program number, run that program and then switch back to the one we are running.

We had none of these problems last year. There are only two differences I can think of from last year. This year we are using rotation sensor input to check distance this year. Also, this year we are using a differential to control motion so we only turn one motor at a time.

At times when the RCX goes off into lala land we have to reload the program to get it back willing to run the program, and at times that doesn't even seem to work.

We have two RCX modules and both exhibit the same behavior.

Anything you can do to help us will be greatly appreciated.

beth werner

  1. Message by: Legonauts4 10/07/2003 19:56:34 GMT
    First make sure you always end the program with an END program statement. This should help with programs that do not end. I am not sure from your description but it sounds like the program is still running. You can check this by looking at the little man running in the LCD. If you see movement, then the program is still running. The END statment will always stop the program at the end. Just make sure the END statement is executed and only executed when you want the robot to stop. An END statement will turn off the motors (Braked), so if you need to coast to a stop, you will need to add a wait statement before the END. The last thing is that some programs only set up execution using watches. In such a setup you need to be sure something in your program is executed when you want the program to end.

    Dave Kolberg
    Coach Team #4


    1. Message by: dollarbay1209 10/16/2003 22:36:22 GMT
      how do you reset the RCX


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/16/2003 22:48:30 GMT
        Depends on what you call a reset.

        The most radical is to remove the batteries from the RCX
        and wait 2 minutes by a clock. Replace the batteries and
        download the firmware. Your RCX now is 'factory' new.

        A lesser reset is to delete all programs and memory using
        the tools under RoboLab. Not sure if this can be done in
        RIS.

        -Skye


        1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 10/18/2003 17:12:36 GMT
          The most radical is to remove the batteries from the RCX
          and wait 2 minutes by a clock. Replace the batteries and
          download the firmware. Your RCX now is 'factory' new.


          Just downloading the firmware again accomplishes the same full reset. Any programs in the RCX will be erased when new firmware is downloaded.


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/18/2003 17:24:56 GMT
            Does just downloading the firmware also erase program
            memory and clear out containers? I have never tried.

            -Skye


    2. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/17/2003 00:06:40 GMT
      Has anyone had problems with the RCX running when it is off. We have had problems with the RCX continuing to run even after we have pushed the off button. Nothing is showing in the window and it appears to be off but it will run the motors. When we disconnected all wires and also try checking batteries, even removing only one battery it will then stop running but we have lost all programing on the RCX. Any ideas.


      1. Message by: 10/17/2003 03:17:19 GMT
        Deleted


      2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/17/2003 14:16:20 GMT
        RoRoRo:

        We saw similar problems to the ones you describe earlier this season with one of our RCX. We do not know specifically what caused the problem. However, removing the batteries (as described above) and then restoring firmware has seemed to fix the problem. We believe that our problems were probably the result of having that RCX partially "overprogrammed" by having it too near another programming station while another station was programming a different RCX. Another potential possibility is that the batteries within are not making good contact with all of the metal contacts in the RCX. Checking to see that all of the metal contacts are "bent out" sufficiently is a good idea.

        The good news is that after being more careful with the above two items, we have not seen the problem recur, even after about 8 subsequent meetings.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/17/2003 14:41:02 GMT
      Ken,

      Thank you for your help. It makes alot of sense. We are using two robots and at times the kids get over anxious to download and have forgotten to put the bot in his garage. That could be the problem. I am going out today to buy case of batteries. Costco here I come.
      By the way like the shortening of our name. It does get seem like a tongue twister at times.

      L


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/17/2003 16:50:47 GMT
        You're not kidding about the "Roberts Robo Rovers" being a tongue twister! I'd love to hear the tournament emcee trying to say it in the excitement of the tournament!

        Hopefully you'll be able to avoid future RCX troubles.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem

        "Ro, Ro, Ro your 'bot, gently down the ramp..."


    4. Message by: Rusty Engineers 10/20/2003 20:58:02 GMT
      So far the team has been programming one program at a time and hasn't done multiple programs on the RCX.
      As soon as we press the download button, the RCX immediately attempts to put the downloaded program into program 5.
      Are we doing something wrong?
      Thanks,
      Paul Tagher
      Rusty Engineers


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/20/2003 21:20:07 GMT
        What language are you using? RoboLab or RIS?
        -Skye


    5. Message by: Rusty Engineers 10/23/2003 02:42:37 GMT
      RIS.
      Paul


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/23/2003 03:34:52 GMT
        Hopefully a RIS user will chime in here. We use RoboLab
        and I do not even have a copy of RIS on any of my computers.
        But I do remember that you had to select the program slot
        the program was to be downloaded to. Poke around the
        user interface and you should find an option for the
        program slot. I hope I am not wrong, but if I am somebody
        is bound to correct me!

        -Skye


    6. Message by: Wildcats1099 10/23/2003 04:23:29 GMT
      Paul,
      First make sure all your program slots are unlocked. After you select a user, choose settings from the next page. Choose the advanced button from the bottom of the box. Make sure there are no x's in any of the program slot boxes. This is also the place to tell the program you have a rotation sensor. Make sure you click on accept. It will need to talk to your RCX to change the settings. When you are programming, choose settings from the toolbar across the top of the page. The top option is probably set to download to slot 5. Click on the arrow to the right of that, and change to the slot you wish to download to.
      I'm thinking of relocking all the programming slots before competition to help avoid unintentional downloads from other teams.
      Hope this helps.
      Monica


    7. Message by: Rusty Engineers 10/24/2003 18:33:51 GMT
      Thanks,
      That's probably it -- I'll find out this weekend.
      I also just learned about setting the rotation sensor -- thanks as well for that advice.
      I'll let you know if it works.
      Paul


Discussion: Design Documentation By: eagles3113 11/06/2003 17:33:15 GMT
New coach question - any recommendations for documentation of robot designs? Team members need to be able to reproduce previous iterations. Any graphics/other packages that lend themselves to Legos?

Thanks!
Trina Park
Annapolis Area Christian School

  1. Message by: Legonauts4 10/07/2003 20:45:58 GMT
    Try MLCAD. It is freewear and will allow you to draw your robot in a CAD environment (3D). From this you can publish build instructions. There is a book that has instructions on this and other freewear for Legos available, I do not have it in front of me right now. I will try to get the book name and publish later. Try an internet search for MLCAD you should find lots of information.

    Dave Kolberg
    Coach Team #4


    1. Message by: robertsrobotics1097 10/10/2003 20:45:49 GMT
      What do you need documentation for? Is that part of the Technical presentation?


    2. Message by: eagles3113 10/11/2003 21:14:58 GMT
      We just want our team to learn some of the basic engineering good practices as we go along. One of our mottoes is "If you don't write it down, it didn't happen". A cool software package makes it easier and more fun.

      Trina


    3. Message by: robotechs738 11/06/2003 17:33:15 GMT
      I just got the rules for the TN tournament and it does say we have to have a copy of the 'robot programs' to the technical judging session.....Andrea, new coach


Discussion: RCX Hardware Malfunction? By: Team Red Alert 229 10/28/2003 18:11:16 GMT
Here's a good one for all you RCX internals hackers:
I have an RCX which seems to have malfunctioning output ports. Ports A and B seem to have some sort of electrical short between them which causes the following results:

Port A Forward: motor runs forward normally
Port A Backward: motor runs backward very slow, *and*
motor hooked to port B runs FORWARD very slow!
Port B Forward: motor runs forward very slow, *and*
motor hooked to port A runs BACKWARD very slow!
Port B Backward: motor runs backward normally
Port C Forward: motor runs forward normally
Port C Backward: motor runs backward normally

Test conditions:

- One motor connected to each port with one wire.
- Swapped out motors (I have seven) to rule out motor problems.
- Swapped wires to rule out wire problems.
- I have 2 other RCXs which show none of the above symptoms with the same motors and wires.
- Drive commands were issued using LEGO remote control for ease of test, but programs (using Robolab) give same results.
- I downloaded fresh firmware (3 times) and it had no effect.
- The RCX has had no traumatic experiences with liquids of any kind, although it might have been dropped on the floor once or twice.

Has anyone ever heard of such a thing? It almost seems to me that a short circuit is causing current to leak between the ports, but I'm no electrical engineer.

Finally, has anyone had any luck getting LEGO to repair/replace an RCX? They once sent me a replacement motor with no questions asked (I just had to send them the old one so I wouldn't get charged), but I'm not sure how that would work with an RCX.

Any help is much appreciated!

- Scott Kukshtel
Coach, Team Red Alert!
Atkinson, NH

  1. Message by: Mapcuanun 10/08/2003 18:48:13 GMT
    Scott, let me know if you have any luck getting a replacement. We have one RCX that has a completely non-functioning port A.

    Marie Hopper
    hopperme@earthlink.net


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/08/2003 19:21:40 GMT
      LEGO is normaly VERY good at replacements. You call them
      up, tell them your problem. They will take a credit card
      number and ship you a new RCX. They then give you a period
      of time to send the old one in before they hit your credit
      card.

      -Skye


      1. Message by: Team Red Alert 229 10/10/2003 05:10:37 GMT
        Yes Skye - I had the same experience when I needed a replacement for a frozen motor. They sent a new one, mine went back, no questions asked.

        However, when I called LEGO ShopAtHome today to ask for a replacement RCX, the service rep first tried to tell me "too bad", that I would have to buy a replacement for $80. When I asked about the replacement policy and told her of my previous experience, she asked how long I had owned the RCX. I said two years, and she again tried to *sell* me a replacement. I then said that I knew several people (i.e. all of you Forum friends ;-) who had gotten replacement parts for free (including RCXs). She then put me on hold for a few minutes (no doubt to talk to a supervisor). When she came back, she said that they would, after all, give me a free replacement, but that I would have to send them my malfunctioning RCX first.

        So, it goes out in tomorrow's mail. I'll keep you posted as to when I get it back. Too bad it had to happen during the season, but fortunately we've got two more. (I may have to get a team member to bring their personal RCX to the tourney as our "backup backup" if I don't get mine back in time!)

        - Scott


        1. Message by: Team Red Alert 229 10/28/2003 18:11:16 GMT
          UPDATE: Brand new replacement RCX (rev 2.0) received in mail on Friday and all is working well now. All it cost me was the one-way shipping and insurance. Excellent service LEGO!


    2. Message by: Team Trinity3240 10/14/2003 02:46:15 GMT
      I have been running my programs successfully for a few days but today went to rerun some of my missions and the motors at speed 1 did not move my RCX vehicle. It barely moves the wheels even when off the ground. It is not an axle problem and no parts are pressing against the chassis. I put in fresh batteries and had no improvement. It sounds like the motors are laboring compared to how they sound at higher speeds. Will the motors where out to any extent?

      Mark Scott
      Team Trinity


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/14/2003 15:12:47 GMT
        A brand new motor will degrade slightly as the brushes
        wear in. I will guess you have some other issue.

        1) Ground up LEGO plastic in the bearings! After a
        season, you can get quite an accumulation!

        2) Retest all your connections. Especially the rotation
        sensor. It is VERY important to have it tightly
        snaped into place.

        3) Are you sure you used new batteries?

        4) Was the RCX hot when you used it? The H-bridge parts
        inside the RCX are current limited. These parts are
        subject to temperature effects.

        -Skye Sweeney


Discussion: Parts storage By: ilsgreen2170 12/04/2003 20:51:38 GMT
I recall a discussion last year about useful Lego parts storage boxes. I think there was something about fishing tackle boxes from Wal-Mart or other stores. Can anyone make a few recommendations? Thanks -- Mark Beitz, coach

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/08/2003 12:48:32 GMT
    The handbook at http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net has a
    few recommendations. Not sure if those specific models
    are still available. The things to look for are:
    1) Good solid latches!
    2) Shelves that when open are fully accessible.
    3) Shelves that when closed do not allow the parts
    to spill if up ended.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/08/2003 15:59:53 GMT
      Mark,

      My very strong favorite is a box like the Plano 1234.

      You can see a picture online at The Sports Authority web pages. I purchased mine at Walmart for around $25 each.

      What I really like are the small individual box trays with the tackle box. These small trays can also be purchased invididually. We have a couple tackle box sets for carrying Lego to tournaments, workshops, etc., and then even more of the box trays. For a tournament or workshop, the top compartment is large enough to hold a small robot, the USB tower, and the other really big Lego pieces.

      For meetings, we take a lot of the trays out and set them on a table. The trays can be opened, and set out flat on the table, with the base of one tray set into the opened lid of the other tray. In this way, all the Legos can be easily seen, and finding the piece one wants is pretty easy. Each box holds a specific type of Lego (beams, gears, liftarms, pins etc.) and the different compartments are used for different sizes. I found that hot-melting the dividers you want in place works well. The hot-melt glue holds the dividers in place for use, but is easily "broken" to remove a divider when it becomes necessary to reorganize (due to additional Lego, etc.)

      Just my two cents. Other solutions surely would work very well, too!

      --ken


    2. Message by: ilsgreen2170 10/09/2003 01:47:17 GMT
      Thanks, Skye and Ken! I appreciate the help in finding this information faster.

      Anyone else -- let us know if you have other suggestions that work well for you.

      - Mark


    3. Message by: Little Green Men and Women 1019 12/04/2003 15:00:51 GMT
      I've been considering one of these, http://www.roboticslearning.com/store/index.html, but it's more expensive than the Plano box. Anybody have one?

      /Dave


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/04/2003 18:24:33 GMT
        Dave / Little Green Men and Women: I haven't used the boxes in question, but from looking at the picture, they sure look like they *are* Plano boxes, just a different model than the ones that are mentioned in the FAQ. You should be able to take a look at the same models at your local Walmart or other department store that carries fishing tackle.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


      2. Message by: ilsgreen2170 12/04/2003 20:43:24 GMT
        It's a Plano 1234 box system for sure. I bought this system from Wal-Mart this year.

        Here's the Wal-Mart cost comparison based on prices in October.
        Plano 1234 box with three large trays: 1 @ $24.96 = $24.96
        Small Plano boxes going into top, sold separately:
        5 @ $1.88 each = 9.40
        1 more @ $1.88 each = 1.88

        --------
        Total $ 36.24

        All boxes are made by Plano. The inside of the top box will tell you the model number of the small boxes that fit perfiectly in the top slots.

        Looks like RoboticsLearning may have a good price with the preprinted labels, depending on S/H costs. The preprinted labels probably won't match with all parts from a FLL Challenge Kit, though.

        The sixth box in the top may need to be smaller than the other five. A sixth box of the same size as the other five doesn't fit well in my box.

        - Mark Beitz, a coach who really needs to turn in these receipts!


    4. Message by: Blazing Rockets 1532 12/04/2003 20:28:58 GMT
      I picked up a nice large one at Walmart for about $30. It has proven very useful in organizinging our pieces large and small.
      Debbie


Discussion: Looking for the Mission Mars JPG. By: Fueled-By-Intelligence2155 10/09/2003 15:44:49 GMT
Is there a Mission Mars logo JPeg available? I thought I saw one once, but can't seem to find it again.

Thanks, Team 2155
Fueled-By-Intelligence

  1. Message by: unknown3259 10/09/2003 02:33:40 GMT
    Here's the Logo.

    Trish Poggio
    Team 3259


    1. Message by: Fueled-By-Intelligence2155 10/09/2003 15:44:49 GMT
      Thanks a bunch! Team 2155 Fueled-By-Intelligence


Discussion: Unusual LEGO parts By: Red Planet Gladiators702 11/27/2003 05:39:28 GMT
One member of our team has been "mining" his many boxes of LEGOs that have been collected over the years and has found some very unique LEGOs. Some of the most promising are a cargo/soccer net, car wash brush, and thin plastic banners. All of these were in official LEGO kits and valid, I believe, under the rules. How in the world will a judge know? How would a team provide valid evidence if the judge doesn't recognize a part?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/09/2003 20:10:26 GMT
    Often, the parts will have the LEGO logo molded into the
    part. If not, the part should have the fairly obvious
    stud/socket or cross shaped axle hole. If not, it probably
    does not fall into the LEGO element catagory.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/09/2003 20:33:47 GMT
      That sounds like the net from soccer goal in the soccer set would not be considered a "LEGO element"?

      or the cargo net from the Pirates Ambush LEGO System set?

      or the thin plastic sheets that are available in the Solar Explorer, Life On Mars set?

      Thanks, I appreciate finding out now rather than later. So the criteria we should use for a valid LEGO element is what you stated in your previous post?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/09/2003 21:25:11 GMT
        I am NOT the ultimate source. You should contact
        Scott Evans (evans@usfirst.org) for the final word.

        Since LEGO string is legal and it is not marked LEGO,
        my initial reply was not ultimately correct. If you
        had a LEGO part that was weird, I would 1) get Scott
        to say it is OK 2) Bring a picture of the LEGO part
        from a catalog or instructions to show the head ref if
        the issue came up.

        -Skye


        1. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/10/2003 23:22:10 GMT
          Thanks Skye, your suggestion about bringing in a image from a catalog is a good one. I also got confirmation from Scott that the following parts would be legal:
          ----------------------------
          (from my message to him) A few of examples would be the "cargo net" from the Priates Ambush LEGO Systems set, the square, thin, plastic sheet that is used in the Solar Explorer, Life On Mars set, and a thin plastic banner that says Octan on it from a race car pit area LEGO set...
          ----------------------------
          So, I guess that as long as the team members can identify the LEGO kit it came from and we can document it, we should be able to use unusual LEGO parts.


    2. Message by: candojrrobotics3320 11/22/2003 21:55:55 GMT
      Is a clear placic tube that came in a Mindstorms Robotics Invention System legal.


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/24/2003 14:16:07 GMT
        Personally, I am not familiar with the clear plastic tube that is in the RIS set. If the item is a Lego building element, then it is allowed. If, however, the item is part of the packing materials of the set, then it would not be allowed on a robot. A good way to determine which it is for the RIS set would be to look for the piece on the "inventory of parts" at the back of the RIS constructopedia. If it is not shown on the parts inventory, then it is part of the packaging materials. Similarly, things in the RIS set that are not building elements would not be allowed on the robot. (e.g. the Constructopedia or the CD-ROM.)

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: Mapcuanun 11/27/2003 00:38:47 GMT
      Oh no Ken! You have destroyed our strategy of using the cds as wheels!

      Marie - just kidding and very punchy!


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/27/2003 05:39:28 GMT
        Marie,

        Sorry about that! :-)

        However, for non-Lego contests, the CDs make great wheels! The Pitsco-Lego-Dacta catalog has some cool non-Lego kits which make various rubber-band or mousetrap vehicles that DO use CDs as wheels! Maybe a neat experiment for an FLL team in the off season?

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Challenge Kit Parts By: Mentor3180 10/11/2003 04:35:19 GMT
I am trying to find out where to order replacement parts from the challenge set. I have tried the pld page, but can't find some of the challenge set parts, specifically, the red ball. Anyone have any idea where to get these parts?

thanks,
adam

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/10/2003 02:59:54 GMT
    LEGO does not sell all parts in small collections or singly.
    Sometimes the only way to get a part is to buy a large kit.

    There is a vast network of individuals selling parts on the
    web. You can often buy just one part. Start at
    http://www.brinklink.com

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: Rusty Engineers 10/11/2003 03:13:31 GMT
      Skye:
      I think that link is spelled incorrectly.
      Should be: http://www.bricklink.com


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/11/2003 04:35:19 GMT
        It was and now its too late to edit! But, we have your
        correction to help people out. Thanks.

        -Skye


Discussion: Motors By: Galactic Knights 2207 12/12/2003 21:55:56 GMT
How do you test the strength of your motors so that they are equal ?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/10/2003 02:55:12 GMT
    This is covered in the FAQ at
    http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq/faq_robot.htm

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: cls1820 12/10/2003 22:29:37 GMT
      Can we have 3 motors at the table and have a motor where the rest of the team is???


    2. Message by: Legonauts4 12/11/2003 19:39:09 GMT
      If the rest of the team is back in the pits then the answer is yes. If the rest of the team is near the table, then the answer is no. That is the competition area and only three motors are allowed to be brought to the table (this is interpreted as for the entire 2:30 seconds).

      -Dave
      Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605


    3. Message by: cls1820 12/12/2003 21:55:56 GMT
      Thanks


Discussion: Extra Parts By: The Mighty Jayhawks 11/12/2003 00:33:07 GMT
Just how many extra parts should you have when you are all done building the challenge kit? We seem to have quite a few. magnets, connectors, orange disks etc...

  1. Message by: AtomicOranges1367 10/15/2003 22:49:21 GMT
    Can you use other lego sets like bioncle


    1. Message by: harris-194 10/15/2003 22:54:27 GMT
      In Skye style -
      The short answer: yes
      To fully answer your question (and possibly others as well) take a look at the FAQ: http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net/faq/

      Courtney
      Harris-194


    2. Message by: RoboMonkeys746 10/17/2003 04:32:10 GMT
      I really can't see how some NAP/Bionicle parts are not legal. If that were so, then Rule 5 should say so.

      Rule 5 clearly states the Robot must be made entirely of LEGO elements. Bionicle is made by Lego therefor they are technically "Lego parts". As long as they don't violate any other part or rule 5, they should be legal. Does anybody see any significant advantage using Bionicle parts?


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/17/2003 13:22:37 GMT
        LEGO makes a wrist watch and an eraser. These are clearly
        not "LEGO Elements". Technik and basic LEGO clearly are.
        Bionicle is somewhat gray. When I wrote that section of the
        FAQ it was after a conversation with the official rule
        maker Scott Evans. If you wish to have him ellaborate, I
        would send him an email and post his reply.

        -Skye Sweeney


      2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/17/2003 14:57:41 GMT
        I agree that the ZNAP / Bionicle parts are very much in a "gray area" since "LEGO elements" (see Rule 5) are not clearly defined anywhere. Skye brings up a good point with the Lego watch and eraser that "Lego elements" clearly is not just anything made by Lego. (How about a Lego T-Shirt? :-)

        My perspective is that from a rules perspective a team would be on very safe ground to just avoid using any parts they acquired from a ZNAP / Bionicle kit. That said, however, I personally think the current phrasing allows ZNAP / Bionicle pieces, as I don't know how to interpret them as other than "Lego elements." I also believe that almost any other position is untenable, short of issuing a specific allowed parts list.

        Why do I think that the current phrasing should allow ZNAP / Bionicle pieces? I think the reason is that drawing a line anywhere else is almost unenforceable, and worse yet, leaves teams to design robots without knowing whether or not certain parts are allowed.

        Part of the trouble is that there isn't a clear definition of how a "ZNAP/Bionicle part" differs from a "traditional" Lego brick. This is further muddied by the fact that ZNAP/Bionicle parts are made to interlock and work with "traditional" Lego Bricks. Also, newer Lego kits are starting to have more and more overlap between the different kinds of connections. Sone of the newest Lego kits have almost none of the traditional "stud-based" Lego connections. (For example, check out Lego 8454 (Rescue Truck), which is a Lego Technic set with 634 pieces, where only 12 pieces utilize the traditional connection!)

        Anyway, my suggestions for this year in the absence of rules clarifications on "Lego elements" are as follows:

        * Avoid using strange or unusual elements if you can. If you see a strange or unusual element that you would like to use, is it possible to make a similar thing that fulfills the same function out of the kinds of pieces that are in the Lego Mindstorms kit? Can the team identify the principle demonstrated by the unusual element and build something that does the same thing?

        * If there is an unusual element that you would like to use, find out what kits it is in. See http://www.peeron.com/inv for a Lego inventory database. If the item is only in ZNAP / Bionicle kits, it would be safest to avoid its use. I personally think that the rules as currently written allow Lego ZNAP / Bionicle parts, but I agree that this area is a gray one; teams that use such parts on their robot may put themselves at risk.

        * Try not to get "wrapped around the axle" about this issue. I really don't think there is a "significant advantage" to using ZNAP / Bionicle parts. However, they sure do make some things easier! On the other hand, they open up the design space so wide that it is easy to have a team get lost in the multitude of available options. I think the fundamental problem is that the current term "Lego elements" is undefined. The only readily definable positions are either "All Lego Pieces," or "All Lego Pieces except those on a list" or "Only Lego Pieces on this list." The issue is especially muddied by new Lego pieces being introduced practically every time a new kit comes out...

        * Remember to have fun!

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: AMS Express 94 11/12/2003 00:33:07 GMT
      I do not see any big help for bionicle parts.


Discussion: Playing Field Equipment By: Crater Raiders 409 10/14/2003 23:32:43 GMT
Do you need to velcrow all the equipments to the playing field?

  1. Message by: RoboMonkeys746 10/14/2003 01:18:05 GMT

    Some yes and some no.

    See Mat & Borders



    1. Message by: Crater Raiders 409 10/14/2003 23:31:31 GMT
      Thank you very much!


Discussion: Different robots Switched between Rounds By: Beach Cities 2984 11/08/2003 05:54:02 GMT
I know that the robot is the sum of all parts brought to the table for a round, but we have three different designs and the kids want to try a different one each round. The "Extra" robots would be kept in the pit area during each round.
I believe this is allowable because the sum of the parts brought to the table are fewer than the amount listed in the "Allowable Parts Rule".
The solution they are going to do is rebuild the RCX/motor combo with the next set of chassis, manipulator, etc after each run because they thought they could only bring 1 RCX, 3 motors, 2 light sensors, etc to the the Tournament.
I thought I would ask about the multi RCX idea for them.



  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/16/2003 13:18:41 GMT
    You may bring as many bots as you want to a tournament.
    Each time you approach the table, the sum of parts must
    match the allowable parts rule. I have in the past had
    a hot spare in the pit. Nothing says that all robots have
    to be identical.

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: Reid Robotics 11/05/2003 17:20:31 GMT
      Iireadthatyoumaynotdothat


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/05/2003 17:38:01 GMT
        There is a big difference in swapping robots between rounds
        and during a round. Swapping robots between rounds is legal.
        Like I said, we have always had a spare bot back in the pits
        in case the prime robot died for some reason.

        Swapping robots during a round is legal only if the SUM
        of all the parts that you bring to the table meets the
        allowable parts rule (1 rcx, 3 motors, ...).

        -Skye


    2. Message by: Solar Sonics 4077 11/08/2003 05:48:51 GMT
      Hi! This is Bob from Oakway, SC Team NoName (soon to change, we have a name!) so let me see if this is correct: I have one team and five kits. are you saying I can build 5 robots and bring all five to the competition, but can only use one robot for each round, although it does not have to be the same robot each time?

      Inquiring kids want to know. Thanks,

      Bob


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/08/2003 05:54:02 GMT
        That is my understanding. Nothing in the rules say you can
        only bring one robot the the competition. The rules only
        say you can only bring one robot to the table to compete.
        So if you want to try out a couple of different bots during
        the day, go for it!

        FIRST is VERY interested in getting people to think outside
        the box. Most people read TOOOOOOO much into the rules.
        Do not make assumptions.

        -Skye


Discussion: playing field pieces have "disappeared" By: robertsrobotics1097 10/23/2003 18:07:56 GMT
Anyone know if it is possible to purchase or order individual replacement pieces for the playing field. We store our board, mat and pieces at our school in a storage area that is along side a classroom coat closet. My guess is someone was curious and took the pieces. They are the red ball and two of the boulders. Both would make nice toys for the playground. Any ideas of other Lego pieces that could be used as replacements or if you think we can purchase just these pieces from Pitsco?

Thanks
Laura
Roberts Robo Rovers

  1. Message by: Robosharks406 10/21/2003 15:17:40 GMT
    By all means, contact Pitsco and explain your situtation and the need to purchase the parts. In the meantime, I share with you my story...Two years ago I had the same thing happen to me. The situation was handled in several ways with the direct assistance of the assistant principal whom I reported the incident to immediately. All but 1 of 3 pieces were found and the culprit disciplined. However, since then my tables are covered by a large sheet of plastic or sheet when I am not teaching (ie, a substitute teacher). I also keep a hawk's eye on them at all times. In your situation, I would lock up all loose pieces and not give those curiousity seekers an open invitation. Covering all of your materials will still keep them dust and grime free. Good luck! Julia (Strafford Robosharks and Electrodes)


    1. Message by: Unidentified Flying Monkeys 3323 10/23/2003 18:07:56 GMT
      Our team has an extra set of playing field parts from a team that disbanded due to over-scheduling. We were planning to return the field and mat that we bought, but the models we got from the other team are missing several pieces. We would be willing to scavenge the parts from the incomplete set in return for a reasonable amount to defray the cost of our team's field pieces. If you want to do this, please email me at aj.mcentire@comcast.net with the pieces you need and we will look for the parts you need in our incomplete set.

      Regards,
      Ari McEntire


Discussion: Tetrahedron Base By: Crater Raiders 409 11/12/2003 15:25:58 GMT
After a round can we reset the Tetrahedron Base, so it is not in the way?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/21/2003 02:54:12 GMT
    No. If you asked the judge to reset it, it would not be
    down at the end of the 2.5 minutes when the judge scores
    the board as it looks at that moment.

    Why not just do the TET base mission latter in the round?

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Crater Raiders 409 10/21/2003 23:43:25 GMT
      Thank you very much this really help are team


    2. Message by: Biobots 876193 10/22/2003 23:31:08 GMT
      Can you add a jig or positioning mechanism to the Tetrahedron Base to make certain the robot is in the correct place to push the ramp down?


      1. Message by: Tharks1165 10/27/2003 23:03:34 GMT
        A jig on the tetrahedron base may NOT be allowed (well, it's allowed but may invalidate your knocking down the ramp and exiting the base).

        The mission description says the robot must COMPLETELY exit tetrahedron base and ramp to score. If you leave a jig on the platform the ref might rule that you did not completely exit the base.

        You should be able to place the jig, align the 'bot, remove the jig then hit the run button.


        1. Message by: Rusty Engineers 10/28/2003 00:29:28 GMT
          I don't think this is accurate. As long as your jig is not touching the ramp itself I think you can use one.
          Let me know if I am incorrect on this.


        2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/12/2003 15:25:58 GMT
          I have had this message bookmark for a while. I think that
          the answer lies in the definition of a robot. A robot is
          itself and any object connected to it. Since the mechanism
          is not connected and cannot be considered the robot itself,
          it does not have to fully come off the tet platform.

          This would be my INTERPRETATION of the rules.

          -Skye


    3. Message by: Legonauts4 10/22/2003 23:32:20 GMT
      That would be consistant with the rules. Just make sure the jig does not extend beyond the baseline.

      Dave
      Coach #4 & #2605


      1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/07/2003 01:21:36 GMT
        I would say that you wound not be allowed to jig it because the councler says (the instruction book) that you may not interfere while the robot is moving so you would not either be able to move the tetrahedrum base. And plus our tecrhedrum base is very weak so its not really nesscesary to move something if its very delicate. Oh I would say if you are talking about this that you should use wheels because treads give way to much weight but I don't think that only the builders (i'm the commmunacation specalist) see ya in another message or at the tournament bye bye bye


    4. Message by: Blazing Rockets 1532 10/23/2003 18:05:11 GMT
      I think what team 409 is asking is can the ramp be put back up after they come off the T-base. The answer would be no. You need the ramp down at the end of the 2 1/2 minutes in order for the judge to award those points for that mission. It was suggested elsewhere to complete that mission last so that it does not get in the way of other missions.


      1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/07/2003 01:23:41 GMT
        cool thanks for the tips


    5. Message by: AMS Express 94 11/12/2003 00:30:45 GMT
      correct it says in the rules that a jig is legle but if it extends beyond the base line the ref will call a rule.


Discussion: Additional Pieces on the Board By: HMS Raiders 427 10/24/2003 22:08:09 GMT
We created a bracing structure with Lego pieces to deliver objects on the game board. Can we leave it on the field?

  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/24/2003 13:10:31 GMT
    Yes, you may leave Lego pieces out on the playing field.

    --ken
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    1. Message by: HMS Raiders 427 10/24/2003 22:08:09 GMT
      Thanks A LOT!


Discussion: Motors losing torque, a common problem? By: Legomen2 11/11/2003 07:18:14 GMT
Our robot is having some odd problems, in the morning, with a rather bulky attactment (that hung off the side) it would do its program perfectly fine. But by the end of the day it had some major trouble turning (we are using treads, so what would happen is one motor would have problems reversing, causing a slow turn). After checking the phyiscal design of the robot we concluded that the motors were to blame (the batteries were just replaced and it still had problems). And all the other problems without big attactments worked perfectly fine
So basiclly my question is, has anyone else had problems with the motors losing torque? Is there something else that could be going wrong (it can't be the RCX because I have two of them and both had trouble).

Any help will be great appreciated

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/29/2003 05:23:12 GMT
    Tracked robots are notorious! First, the treads themselves
    sometimes take a 'set'. That is they take a shape that
    makes them hard to rotate into different positions.
    Second, when used with the standard white spokes, the
    spacing is fairly tight against the technic beam holes.
    This causes the axle to grind in the bearing and generate
    lots of yummy plastic dust that gums up the works. A good
    wipe down of the parts may help. Third, the electronic
    parts inside limit the current to the motors. A warm RCX
    will not provide quite as much current and hence torque
    as a cold RCX. Not noticable on a wheeled robot, but can
    be an issue on a heavy tracked bot.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Legomen2 10/29/2003 18:00:49 GMT
      Well, I completely rebuild the robot, and it is working better, but still not back to what it was. I found that the axle made a larger hole in the beam, and it had way too much slack. Thanks for the help (any more ideas would be apperciated)


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/29/2003 19:03:52 GMT
        Switch to wheel?
        -Skye


    2. Message by: Legomen2 10/30/2003 00:10:24 GMT
      I bit too late to change to wheels :) (though I remember the first year I did this (2001) we changed the design of the robot 2 weeks before the first tournament). We were considering wheels, but decided on treads for thier better cornering ability and more accurate turning. But of course, treads aren't perfect, so when they mess up, they mess up big time.


    3. Message by: electric sheep 467 11/01/2003 05:36:34 GMT
      I agree with the Tekno Devils,you should switch to wheels. One thing about treads is that we had trouble going down the T-base ramp. Another is that it gets stuck on the crater. Try the hoop wheels, they can hold alot, they are fast, and they can turn a tight circle. Our motor's lost some torque but I think we fixed it.


      1. Message by: Legomen2 11/01/2003 20:31:03 GMT
        Our treeds are really good at getting on/off the T-Ramp and the crater. And it is better at getting on the T-ramp at odd angles than wheels could ever be. But anyway, like I said before, it is a bit too late to switch now :) .


      2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/01/2003 20:40:25 GMT
        I did add a to my comments. At this point a team
        probably is fairly well locked into the solution they
        have. Not allways... .

        -Skye


    4. Message by: Bucket Kickers78 11/05/2003 02:40:30 GMT
      wheels are the best the dont have much problems and are easy to fix on i reccomend using wheels


    5. Message by: Robonauts 11/11/2003 07:18:14 GMT
      Definitely! We experienced the same problem and knew it was the motors because an identical robot design built from a brand new Mindstorms kit was smoking the three year old RCX. A quick order for new motors ($50 for 2 shipped overnight - ouch) had both robots performing similiar. After the competition, we will probably pull one of the old motors apart to examine it for wear and dirt on the brushes or commutator. Otherwise, always have the kids check their drivetrain to ensure that they did not overtighten any axles.


Discussion: Tacho 'wheel' By: Tekno Devils40 11/15/2003 00:03:12 GMT
I just placed an order at Pitsco and Shop-at-home. Part of the
order was a bag of 20 tacho wheels. Anybody know what these are
make for? They sound like a cheap man's rotation sensor.

Skye "I'll take a dozen of these, and ten of those, ..." Sweeney

  1. Message by: cybertigers1072 10/29/2003 18:55:40 GMT
    You can use them with a light sensor to make a rotation sensor.
    Might even work with the touch sensor.


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/29/2003 19:05:44 GMT
      Do you have any direct experience?
      How close would the light sensor have to be?
      Do you need to backlight it with a bulb?
      What was the sensitivity?

      -Skye "No access to LEGO right now" Sweeney


      1. Message by: thunderbolts-126 11/02/2003 15:24:29 GMT
        We have tried the Techo with a touch sensor as a rotation sensor. Works ok, very noisy.


      2. Message by: TeamTiger298 11/14/2003 21:57:15 GMT
        Skye,

        Stick a small axle between the tacho slots.
        The sensor deflection will now go from
        roughly 40% to 20% when it sees the black.
        Two Tachos stacked on eachother with the
        black axle and with the sensor looking at the
        "paddle wheel" works great. Without the
        axle the deflection is very weak. You
        can use as many axles as the wheel will
        accept or as few as you need to detect an
        event that corresponds to the rotation of
        the driving or driven gear that is on the
        same axle as the tacho.

        good luck
        -jim


        1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/14/2003 22:16:13 GMT
          Very cool trick! I did not think the contrast would be
          very good. But the black axle should fix the problem.

          We currently are using an axle toggle and a black 1*1
          round plate (button?). That works very well. Much better
          contrast than the mat!

          -Skye


          1. Message by: BNI927 11/14/2003 23:41:06 GMT
            I'm having a hard time visualizing how you all are suggesting to use this Lego element. While we don'ty plan to do this, it is interesting to me. Would anyone be willing to put up a web page with purty pichers on it so I can see what you are talking about?

            Thanks in advance.

            Dave "No mechanical aptitude" April
            Coach - Some Assembly Required


            1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/15/2003 00:03:12 GMT
              Perhaps in my free time!

              -Skye "Laughing hysterically" Sweeney


    2. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/30/2003 00:00:40 GMT
      I believe that is the little piece that looks a bit like a gear but isn't. There was one in the competition set this year. We tried it in combination with a light sensor and to make a reasonable rotation sensor. We decided not to use it because coordinating two rotation sensors was a bit beyond the programming skills of my team. The "wheel" has 8 bars and 8 slots so if you trigger on the transitions from light to dark and dark to light you can get 16 counts per rotation which matches the rotation sensor. We just used the light from the light sensor to illuminate. I also would recommend "boxing it up" so that stray light won't effect your readings.


    3. Message by: Red Planet Gladiators702 10/30/2003 00:06:27 GMT
      Oh, one more thing. Don't try to look though the wheel slots. It works better to turn it so it rotates across the sensor's view. Just measure the reflections off the bars.


Discussion: Not enough parts for Alliance Habituation By: Marskateers 11/25/2003 21:05:07 GMT
Hi, my team says they cannot find all the parts for the "Alliance Habituation Module". Does anyone know the best way to get the parts, FAST!!!

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/30/2003 21:38:36 GMT
    Sometimes a team might miss a part or two (but were they
    truly lost or just misplaced?). Call Pitsco-LEGO-Dacta.
    The number is in the Mars team folder.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Blazing Rockets 1532 10/30/2003 22:11:53 GMT
      You should also check your robot! Being a new team the students did not realize that they could not mix the parts.


    2. Message by: 10/31/2003 00:36:06 GMT
      Deleted


    3. Message by: Marskateers 10/31/2003 05:12:26 GMT
      Actually, we have almost completely finished building it. We improvised with different parts.

      I'm curious, though what is a PB and a J sandwich?
      :-)


    4. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/03/2003 21:59:19 GMT
      we had the same problem we called the company too. so your best bet is that.


    5. Message by: dh falcons 11/25/2003 21:05:07 GMT
      just go uy another kit


Discussion: Batteries By: firephantoms1219 11/03/2003 13:47:16 GMT
I bought 12 rechargeable 1.2V NIMH batteries to use. I didn't realize they were 1.2V. We have two RCX's. The first set I installed are working fine so far (two meetings with the kids). The second set won't work properly. The battery light flashes on the RCX and it shuts down. I recharged them again and trying it again and it worked for about 5 minutes then the same thing happened. I got the impression from some of the other leaders that this type would owrk OK. What do you think?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/30/2003 22:39:10 GMT
    1) It should work ok.
    2) Swap the 'bad' set for the good. Did the problem follow
    the RCX or the batteries?
    3) If the problem followed the set of batteries, you probably
    have a bad cell.
    4) If the problem followed the RCX, I am sorry. You might
    have a bad one.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/30/2003 23:49:42 GMT
      Firephantoms:

      Assuming that the problem ends up following the batteries, you can find the bad cell by checking the voltage on each of the batteries (when the RCX is having the problem.) You will need a voltmeter to do this.

      I wish you the best -- the team I coach encountered a couple bad rechargeable batteries this year, as well.

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    2. Message by: firephantoms1219 10/31/2003 05:20:18 GMT
      Thanks for your quick response and suggestions I will try them. Also thanks for your diligence in answering so many messages.


    3. Message by: Oakview Martrix Team 11/03/2003 05:02:35 GMT
      Anyway, are we allowed to use rechargeable battereys?

      Thanks


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/03/2003 13:47:16 GMT
        Yes.
        -Skye


Discussion: Installing RoboLab to iBooks By: Orono Team 1 10/31/2003 01:01:56 GMT
There are a number of teams in Maine running into problems with installation of RoboLab on the State's (MLTI) laptops that every 7th and 8th grader has. Because they are all locked down, installation occurs under admin, but is supposed to be run under the student's login. Even when installed/and started under Native OS (9) the program can only be run under admin. It fails to properly load within the Student permissions.

Any help on solving this problem would be most appreciated.

Tom Bickford, State Partner for Maine

  1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/30/2003 23:52:41 GMT
    I seem to recall seeing a message on the Tufts/Robolab site describing what you describe. Check out the following link to see if this is the solution to your problem:

    http://www.ceeo.tufts.edu/robolabatceeo/Resources/downloads/2000_XP_NTFSfix.asp

    If the above doesn't solve it, you may want to try upgrading one of the machines to the latest patch level. See the URL below:

    http://www.ceeo.tufts.edu/robolabatceeo/Resources/Service_Pack/default.asp

    --ken
    Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    1. Message by: Blazing Rockets 1532 10/31/2003 01:01:56 GMT
      I too had this problem and had to have the computers taken off of the network and administrator. I now have 3 that are set up this way and they are the ones we use. If you are able to figure it out using the admin left on, please let me know so I can do it next year, because all 6 & 7 graders will have the laptops for school/personal use.


Discussion: Building instructions for missions By: MUSTANGS 11/06/2003 20:00:57 GMT
Could you please tell me where the building instructions for the missions for the mars challenge are located?
Thank You

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/31/2003 21:35:46 GMT
    On the CD that came in the mission challenge box.
    -Skye


    1. Message by: Roboraptors1742 11/04/2003 20:41:05 GMT
      Hello, We have misplaced our cd and need instructions for the Alliance Mission. Can anyone provide just that part? Thank you, Linda


      1. Message by: harris-194 11/04/2003 20:58:01 GMT
        Instructions on the way to your e-mail box. They are big (22Mb) so I hope it makes it.

        Courtney
        Harris-194


        1. Message by: harris-194 11/04/2003 22:24:59 GMT
          Sorry, it was too big to get through mail. I'll try attaching it.

          Courtney
          Harris-194


          1. Message by: Roboraptors1742 11/06/2003 17:18:18 GMT
            Thank you for sending this. However, I can't read it. Through Adobe reader, I get an error saying the file is corrupted. I was able to open all of the modules from the CD previously. Was there software included on the cd that allowed this? Your help is gratefully appreciated.

            Thanks, Linda


            1. Message by: harris-194 11/06/2003 18:05:05 GMT
              I don't think it's a problem with your Acrobat reader. The file is simply too big to post. When I submitted the previous message with the attachment the browser was "busy" for ages. I think it must have timed out or something.

              Courtney
              Harris-194


              1. Message by: Roboraptors1742 11/06/2003 18:47:43 GMT
                Thank you for all of your trouble. I guess I better search harder for that darn CD.


                1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/06/2003 20:00:57 GMT
                  If it helps, It came in a paper sleeve inside the box with
                  all the LEGO for the field pieces (challenge kit). Not in
                  the bigger box that has the LEGO for the RCX.

                  -Skye


    2. Message by: Discovery3739 11/06/2003 08:30:16 GMT
      I am hoping someone will take pity on us, since our district coordinator somehow ordered the wrong challenge kit part number and ours didn't come with the cd and building instructions. I could pull them off an ftp site, or maybe someone has posted the instructions somewhere? We are getting desperate waiting for the mail... and its November!


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/06/2003 13:52:36 GMT
        I was not aware that the challenge kit could be ordered
        without the instructions. My guess is your coordinator
        did not order the challenge kit at all! In this case, the
        instructions will do you little good as you will not have
        all the parts needed to build the models.

        As has been discovered, the files are very large and do
        not email well. The files are even too large to put on
        my web site (even if I could legaly). Perhaps a team close
        to you can lend you the CD.

        -Skye


Discussion: Additional IR tower By: andover722 11/02/2003 02:29:43 GMT
Is there somehwere that I can purchase an addictional IR tower, preferably a USB one? I have looked at the LEGO store online and cannot find them.

  1. Message by: AKEEMA 23 11/02/2003 00:42:50 GMT
    There is one available on E-Bay (a Buy It Now item) for $34.95. Item number is 3152287576.

    AKEEMA 23
    Martian Exchange Students 25


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/02/2003 01:11:17 GMT
      They are available new from Pitsco LEGO Dacta.

      -Skye


    2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 11/02/2003 02:29:43 GMT
      Pitsco Lego Educational Division has these for sale at their online store. See the link below for the IR towers:

      http://www.pldstore.com/pld/finditem.cfm?itemid=1001

      They are $29.99 plus shipping from Pitsco / Lego.

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Rotation Sensors By: The Dust Devils1053 11/20/2003 04:47:41 GMT
Could anyone explain to me how a rotation sensors work?

  1. Message by: Wildcats1099 11/20/2003 04:47:08 GMT
    The rotation sensor counts to 16 for each full revolution. You can use this to control how far a motor turns. If you want to understand the internal circuitry of it, there is an explanation at http://www.hightechkids.org/fll/coaching/Training%20Material/Classdownloads/BLRforFLLV1.0.pdf. It's hard to give you a more detailed answer without knowing what type of issues you're having with it.
    Monica


Discussion: Battery life impact on rotation sensor? By: RoboMatrix 12/10/2003 04:54:35 GMT
We have been programming using the rotation sensor extensively. After working for a few hours on a third mission, we went back to run missions in program slots 1 & 2 and found them coming up a little short.

Have others had problems like this when using the rotation sensor? We experienced the decline in distances travelled using the timing sensor and have plotted that out graphically. Should we expect some similar experience with the rotation sensor effectiveness when the batteries have been used for about 4 hours?

  1. Message by: Legonauts4 11/25/2003 19:14:46 GMT
    Battery life effects everything you do. Have you noticed that when you stop using the rotation that a display of the rotation will show that the rotation is not what you stopped at? How much overshoot you have is a function of how quickly you can stop. One factor in this is the speed the robot is going when you ask it to stop. The robot has momentum and this will change with speed and therefore battery voltage. You can not stop the robot instantaneously and therefore you will always have some overshoot. One thing you can do is determine how many runs you can get out of a set of batteries and just keep changing them when you have reached your limit. It would be difficult but not impossible to adapt your program to account for this variability and reduce or eliminate it.

    -Dave
    Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605


    1. Message by: RoboMatrix 11/25/2003 21:23:14 GMT
      Thanks for the observations. And yes, one of our team members noticed the rotation display not matching the program rotation. As you suggest, the actual rotations overshoot a bit. We will replace all the batteries and see if the original programs will still function accurately. We'll also start logging mission runs.

      This is a first year team and I am a first year coach. We are learning a lot! Thanks again for the input.

      Mark - Robomatrix


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/25/2003 21:42:19 GMT
        Are you using RIS or RoboLab? If you are using RoboLab
        there is another reason that the robot does not stop
        right on your target value. Luckly, this can be corrected.

        It is an advanced concept but one that can improve your
        accuracy considerably. Let me know....

        -Skye


        1. Message by: RoboMatrix 11/26/2003 00:19:36 GMT
          We are using Robolab. I am all ears! \/

          Mark


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/26/2003 01:30:02 GMT
            I can only assume you are using the RoboLab Waitfor icons.
            If you double click the icon, it will open up a subvi.
            (DO NOT EDIT THIS SUBVI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
            This subvi is what RoboLab does to accomplish the wait.
            It is a 'spin loop'. In other terms, it sits in an infinite
            loop testing the sensor for a paticular condition. When
            true, it bails out of the loop. The 'problem' is that
            they put a 2/100 second pause inside the loop. This means
            that you will not sample the rotation sensor as fast as
            possible.

            The solution is to make your own spin loops without the
            2/100 second delay. This workds great for the light sensors
            and touch sensors. The rotation sensor has the added complexity
            that it can go both positive or negative. The RoboLab icon
            hides this from you by taking the absolute value. And guess
            what, that slows down the sample rate even more. So, if you
            can get your minds around that issue, you can improve the
            accuracy.

            -Skye

            PS: This is a trick Ken taught me!


    2. Message by: Mapcuanun 11/27/2003 00:42:00 GMT
      Whoo hoo! I like this one Skye! Now to really bend the minds of my advanced programmers!! Wheeee!

      Marie


    3. Message by: fvlego2261 12/10/2003 01:52:37 GMT
      Any speculation on why these 2/100 delays are present in the Robolab "wait fors"? Were you successful eliminating the delay completely or did you need to shrink the delay value? Seems like eliminating the delay might lead to some very difficult to diagnose resource contention issues.

      Thanks for any insight.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/10/2003 04:54:35 GMT
        I will guess that the 2/100 was added to prevent issues
        when multiple threads are running. My guess is the developers
        did not want to hog all the processor power away from another
        thread. But from what I understand of the disassembly of
        the firmware, the multitasker should not be effected. We
        have removed the 2/100 from out COPIES of these icons and
        have seen no ill effects even when running multiple threads.

        What we do see is greatly increased responce times!

        -Skye


Discussion: Locked Programs By: LegoPussycats3264 12/03/2003 21:35:11 GMT
Help!

One our RCXs, when we try to download programs into slots 1 or 2, we get an error message saying that they are locked. How do we unlock the slots so that they can be programmed?

Thanks!

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/03/2003 03:49:52 GMT
    Please tell us what language are you using? RIS or Robolab.
    It is different for both, but basicaly under administrator
    or options you will find the switch.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: LegoPussycats3264 12/03/2003 21:35:11 GMT
      We found it. We are using Robolab and found it under the administrator settings. Thanks for the help!


Discussion: Solar Panel Dust By: Robodogs2570 12/07/2003 00:37:19 GMT
Does any one know if the dust on the solar panel is going to be standing up or lying on it's side?

  1. Message by: ilsgreen2170 12/07/2003 00:37:19 GMT
    See "Exit the Tetrahedron Base."

    Could we pick our robot up without penalty if it is on base? - See Rule 19.

    - Mark Beitz, coach


Discussion: Motors at table By: cls1820 12/12/2003 21:51:18 GMT
Can you have 3 motors at the table and have one where the rest of the team is?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/10/2003 22:26:14 GMT
    If it is someones pocket and NEVER EVER used at the table
    during that round, there is no problem. The referees may
    be strict, but they will not be conducting body searches!

    But don't think you can take the robot away from the table
    and swap out a motor!

    -Skye


    1. Message by: cls1820 12/12/2003 21:51:18 GMT
      Darn :( Thanks anyway.


Discussion: Lost communication with Spirit By: Tekno Devils40 01/22/2004 21:35:15 GMT
January 22, 2004

NASA scientist reveil that they have lost communications with
the Spirit mars rover. It has been over 24 hours since any
non garbage data has been received. They are investigating
what type of hardware or software failure could explain the
problem.

It is rummored that thousands of FLL team members around the
world are tying up the phone lines at NASA. They are all trying
to tell NASA that some Martian just took a flash photo of the
rover. Dr. Justin Case is reputed to be on route to NASA to
explain to them the proper way to download new firmware. Just
before he was whisked away by helicopter he was overheard
saying "Make sure you have the latest version of RoboLab
waiting for me when I get there".

-Skye "With deep concern" Sweeney


Folder: Florida 12/20/2003 15:29:26 GMT


Discussion: Thunder Rumble MOSI Tournament By: R2D2Firedroids 12/04/2003 21:46:08 GMT
Does anyone know whether Raytheon will sponsor the MOSI FLL Tournament again this year? If so, do you know the date?

  1. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 09/08/2003 02:24:59 GMT
    We haven't seen or heard about the tournament. Hopefully they will put it on again.


    1. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 09/15/2003 14:49:06 GMT
      hey


    2. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 09/15/2003 14:49:23 GMT
      wats goin on


    3. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 09/15/2003 14:50:51 GMT
      r u guys nerds


      1. Message by: JRCOMETS 10/06/2003 21:49:02 GMT
        no but odviously you are butthead


      2. Message by: TheLegoWorks1859 12/04/2003 21:46:08 GMT
        i m not


    4. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 09/15/2003 14:51:16 GMT
      wats goin on


    5. Message by: brainstormers136 09/16/2003 03:54:03 GMT
      This summer I took my team to Lego robotic practice at MOSI and I inquired about the tournament. It looks that MOSI is not going to host the tournament this year. :( but I could be just a rumor.


    6. Message by: 10/06/2003 21:46:36 GMT
      Deleted


    7. Message by: 10/06/2003 21:47:53 GMT
      Deleted


    8. Message by: 10/16/2003 02:40:59 GMT
      Deleted


    9. Message by: williamsteam1364 11/10/2003 22:49:37 GMT
      The Raytheon Tournament is going to take place. They are focusing on admitting teams not currently registered in other events since its been so difficult to get into one in Florida this year.

      suzy


    10. Message by: RoboSquad1889 11/25/2003 03:48:56 GMT
      Robosquad1889

      Is Raytheon going to host a tournament this season? We just competed for the 1st time at Crystal Lake and had a BLAST!


    11. Message by: frogbots2327 11/30/2003 15:47:51 GMT
      Hello Everyone,
      We are the FROG-BOTS from Martin County. We just competed for our first time, had a blast, and would be interested in the tournament your talking about with Raytheon. Can you let us know if anything comes of it?
      Coach Call


    12. Message by: TheLegoWorks1859 12/04/2003 21:44:26 GMT
      no


Discussion: hey By: ToxicLawnGnomes624 12/20/2003 15:29:26 GMT
hey hows it goin in florida

  1. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 09/15/2003 14:47:04 GMT
    u there??


    1. Message by: 09/15/2003 14:47:57 GMT
      Deleted


    2. Message by: Robostrykers2418 09/19/2003 00:18:40 GMT
      its cool were you at


    3. Message by: Robostrykers2418 09/19/2003 00:20:36 GMT
      hey whats up


    4. Message by: visionaries 09/24/2003 17:42:59 GMT
      hello everybody


    5. Message by: visionaries 09/24/2003 17:44:27 GMT
      hi everybody!!!

      We are 4 students and we come from Quebec city.
      We hope to see you ate the competition and write us back as soon as possible!!

      Thanksj


      1. Message by: Gatorbots2169 10/03/2003 00:34:28 GMT
        Hi we are a big team that has just converted into 2 teams today. We are from Texas. We are working on getting the software and building down. We will be ready in time for the competition. We hope to see you there, but be ready for a challenge!!!!!!!!!! write back
        Gatorbots


    6. Message by: Jr Comets III 09/24/2003 20:49:14 GMT
      i'M NOT mEXICAN


    7. Message by: Jr Comets III 09/24/2003 20:50:06 GMT
      i'M NOT MEXICAN


      1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 11/06/2003 14:01:21 GMT
        hey biohazards why on earth did your team name get renamed thats not vilent


    8. Message by: Marbots 10/16/2003 21:25:11 GMT
      We r from MI. Hi every one! Good luck 2 every one heee!!!!

      :-)


    9. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:05:03 GMT
      Hi team from MI! We are the Metal Martians from Ajax,Canada. We are beginners and we are very competitive and hope you do well!


      1. Message by: Marbots 10/21/2003 22:26:31 GMT
        i hope you do well too. thanks for the support. i hope we can meet in person?
        I hope to see you there.


      2. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/15/2003 02:53:55 GMT
        hey! we r the roadrunners3793, but we might change our name. We are also begginers and are very competative. We hope you do well on the tournament!


    10. Message by: WeR4Geeekx 11/22/2003 03:54:03 GMT
      which one and where??? we will be at the one on dec.6 in Florida


    11. Message by: Roadrunners3793 12/09/2003 23:47:57 GMT
      We will be going to the January 4th tournament in Melbourne. Is anyone else going to be there? We can't wait!!!


      1. Message by: RoboMonkeys746 12/20/2003 15:29:26 GMT
        I have 2 RoboMonkey teams going as well. RoboMonkeys 746 and Robomonkeys Jr 2218. 746 won the Directors award and will be representing Treasure Coast at the state competition.

        Be sure to drop by our pit table to pickup one of our buttons.

        Charlie
        Coach Robomonkeys 746
        Mentor Robomonkeys 2218


Discussion: hey By: ToxicLawnGnomes624 11/15/2003 02:58:34 GMT
hey hows it goin in florida

  1. Message by: Robostrykers2418 09/19/2003 00:23:20 GMT
    ok


    1. Message by: Elkhorn Eliminators742 11/11/2003 00:07:41 GMT
      Hey


    2. Message by: ViperHawk880 11/14/2003 18:47:26 GMT
      hay from Canada aye when is your tourniment? how far are you in your programing aye?


      1. Message by: Roadrunners3793 11/15/2003 02:58:34 GMT
        Well, hi. our tournament is..I think it is around January(that's when we are having winter break). Hey when is your tournament?

        we have just practily started but we have gine pretty far. How far have you done in programing?


Discussion: Time Limit By: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 09/19/2003 00:22:11 GMT
Has anyone seen a time limit rule yet? If so how long do we have to do all of the missions?

  1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 09/16/2003 04:57:04 GMT
    The website says 2 1/2 minutes to get as much done as possible...

    Les Turner
    195 - The Bremen Botz!


    1. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 09/16/2003 17:16:38 GMT
      Thank you! Being so giggly we missed that one.


    2. Message by: Robostrykers2418 09/19/2003 00:22:11 GMT
      wasap


Discussion: Missions By: Crater Raiders 409 10/30/2003 20:40:45 GMT
For every missions do we need to start at the base?

  1. Message by: R2D2Firedroids 10/13/2003 18:38:02 GMT
    Yes Crater Raiders, each mission must start in the base. See the Rules 9-15 at http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11250.

    We were unsure about this as well last year. There are some videos in the forum that are most helpful. Have you seen them? If not let me know and I'll find the site for you.
    Dr. Paul the Know it All
    R2-D2 Firedroids
    thedoctor451@hotmail.com


    1. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 10/15/2003 03:03:30 GMT
      You can put as many missions as you want in one program. So if you have the ramp, solar panel, and habitat in one program have your robot go out perform those tasks come back to base and try to do another combo. Good luck and we hope to see you and the tournaments.


      1. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/30/2003 19:35:33 GMT
        thanks for your great tips becasue were just starting oh and were from Canada there is a huge argument with are team members exept us to that are sending this
        you guys should use treads instead of tires


    2. Message by: churchill4/5martians 10/30/2003 19:31:49 GMT
      hey
      i don't understand what you are trying to tell me
      what kind of videos are you talking about
      were they in the box?
      becasue we didnt get one either


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/30/2003 20:40:45 GMT
        The videos that the earlier poster was referring to are some
        videos of last year's competition. These videos would help to give a novice team an example of how the robots go "out and back" from the base, accomplishing one or more "missions" during each trip. See
        this link for the discussions with last year's videos.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 10/30/2003 20:18:35 GMT
      We found that treads are great for accuracy but not for speed. We are using the big wheels on the back and sleds for the front. You all know about sleds in Canada better than we do in Florida. If you use wheels on the front we found that using just the plastic part is better. We couldn't move directions with our robot. There was to much friction.
      Good luck!
      Hope to hear from you again.
      Where in Canada are you from?


Discussion: Scoring By: Mars Monkeys 2278 12/16/2003 02:29:09 GMT
During competition, if your robot completes one mission and stops running, do you lose points for picking it up and moving it back to base to start another mission? We know that we lose points (or boulders) for picking up the robot before it stops, but are confused about this other situation.

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/15/2003 23:30:23 GMT
    You loose a rock each time the robot fails to make it back
    to base under its own power. It makes no difference if you
    managed to perform a mission or not. The only exception is
    the crater mission. In this case, the robot needs to be
    in the crater at he end of the time limit to get the points.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Giggly Galaxy Girls 1681 12/16/2003 02:29:09 GMT
      If you pick up the ice cores then get stuck on the course and pick up the robot no points are awarded. The ice cores are not reset either. The only task that will be reset is launching the ball. Since it starts in base it can be picked up and tried again. Do as many missions in one program as possible. This will help save time.
      Hope to see you at state.


Discussion: The Base By: Crater Raiders 409 12/19/2003 16:21:22 GMT
do we need to get the robot back to base on its own power once it finishes the missions.

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 12/16/2003 22:43:31 GMT
    Yes, no, maybe.

    IF the robot does not make it back to the base under its
    own power, AND you elect to pick it up and return in
    by hand, THEN you will loose one rock.

    If the robot is carrying and object, you may or may not get
    to keep it depending on where the object started. Read the
    rules carefully.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Crater Raiders 409 12/19/2003 16:21:22 GMT
      Thank you very much this answer help my team a lot.



Folder: Georgia 12/27/2003 03:53:13 GMT


Discussion: Registering for Georgia compitition By: Firebirds1710 09/17/2003 22:08:15 GMT
This may seem like a silly question, but I am having trouble registering for the Georgia State competition. I have the date of the competition, when I click on the event from the "events and teams" section, I am taken to an international page, how do I register for the event?

Thanks for your help

  1. Message by: Legonauts4 09/16/2003 19:21:56 GMT
    Registration for State Tournaments is not up yet. Registration for tournaments is October 6 - 17th.

    Dave Kolberg
    4 - Explorers
    2605 - Lyons


    1. Message by: Cyberhorses1904 09/17/2003 22:08:15 GMT
      Hey,can we create a homepage


Discussion: Having Fun By: Fernbank Marsbots 10/04/2003 21:46:21 GMT
Checking to see if this works.

nasa.gov

Discussion: Hay from canada By: ViperHawk880 12/27/2003 03:53:13 GMT
Hay form Canada ayh. how is your programing coming? Whet is your tourniment ayh

  1. Message by: crusaders2601 12/27/2003 03:53:13 GMT
    Hey Georgia we're from Newfoundland and we're representing Eastern Canada in your upcoming tournamnt in April. We'll see you there, eh

    Peace Out, eh



Folder: Hawaii 12/04/2003 22:00:51 GMT


Discussion: what is your robot like By: Blaine bat heads 12/04/2003 22:00:51 GMT


  1. Message by: Martian Bulldogs 201 11/05/2003 01:11:35 GMT
    Our robot is awesome, it has a scraper for the specks of dust on top of the solar panel.


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/05/2003 21:53:53 GMT
      Our origianl deghin is the big wheels


    2. Message by: ELS MARTIANS2562 11/19/2003 19:21:27 GMT
      Hope everyone is completing all the missions successfully.
      We are having some trouble with a few.
      ELS Martians LaFollette, TN


      1. Message by: TheLegoWorks1859 12/04/2003 22:00:51 GMT
        thank you



Folder: HELP!!! Is anyone else doing Ice Cores? 10/22/2004 01:02:50 GMT
We are really lost and confused! :( Please help....

Discussion: What kind of help? By: Robocats1628 10/22/2004 01:02:50 GMT
You will need to be more specific than that. What kind of help do you need? Are you looking for places to find good research material? (Public library, web search on "Mars AND Ice Core", NASA websites) Do you want to know how to put the project together? (See FLL rules)

If you ask a more specific question, you have a better chance of getting a useful answer.

  1. Message by: dh falcons 11/26/2003 21:03:33 GMT
    the ice cores should be atteptemted with a long rod


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/26/2003 22:36:09 GMT
      Um,I dont want to be rude,but what question?There is nothing here


    2. Message by: TechSavvy741 01/15/2004 23:11:03 GMT
      we have a two prong hook


    3. Message by: Blaine bat heads 01/16/2004 21:25:37 GMT
      i agree.


    4. Message by: 10/22/2004 01:02:50 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Ice cores By: mars monkeys on a stick 2026 01/15/2004 23:06:35 GMT
Yes we are we've gotten 2 of them we're doing good
good luck

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/17/2003 22:22:27 GMT
    were on our 5th good luck to you


    1. Message by: spiritofmars2435 11/21/2003 04:58:02 GMT
      We also can get two and bring them back to base. The third one we decided not to waste our 2.5 minutes on. We prioritized by time and threw out anything which could not get us at least 2 pts per second. We get the two by lifting them with a long lego stick and return to base with them. Hope this helps!


    2. Message by: Alien Youth 1313 11/24/2003 01:57:57 GMT
      all three all the way! and we get the rover down.


    3. Message by: TechSavvy741 01/15/2004 23:04:16 GMT
      We've got all three but its okay everybody is doing their best we also have the rover in base


    4. Message by: 01/15/2004 23:04:59 GMT
      Deleted



Folder: Homeschool 02/01/2004 08:06:03 GMT


Discussion: Hello Homeschoolers By: PIRATES 8 02/01/2004 08:06:03 GMT
Hello fellow homeschoolers.

  1. Message by: 09/15/2003 06:16:53 GMT
    Deleted


    1. Message by: InterplanetaryArgonauts287 09/16/2003 00:12:28 GMT
      Hi homeschoolers,

      We are a homeschool team just outside Seattle, WA.


      1. Message by: ThreeAmigos1812 09/16/2003 04:37:33 GMT
        We are a homeschool team in Olympia, WA. Are you a rookie team or have you done this before?

        We participated last year, and went to the tournament in Bellevue. How many on your team?

        Have you gotten your mat and challenge set yet? We are still waiting and trying to learn new stuff each time we meet.

        Nice to meet you.


    2. Message by: InterplanetaryArgonauts287 09/16/2003 19:47:45 GMT
      We competed in FLL in GA last year and SC the year before. We have moved a few times in the last couple of years.

      Right now we only have 3 on our team. We got our challenge set a couple of weeks ago. A friend with a team number in the 1900s got her shipment confirmation today, so hopefully yours will be on the way soon.

      Nice to see another homeschool team in the area.


    3. Message by: martian argonauts 09/16/2003 22:29:56 GMT
      hello homeschoolers,

      we are a home school team from outside atlanta GA


    4. Message by: Salt&Light Robotics 11/12/2002 09:35:58 GMT
      Hello. We are a home school team in S-W Pa. Last year was our first time. We achieved the 3rd place trophy for research at the state tourney in Pitt. The robot performed ok. Most of the awards went to fellow home school teams so we are a group to be reconded with. Good luck to all and may the Lord Bless you and your efforts.


      1. Message by: lcorbiters3607 11/05/2003 03:04:05 GMT
        have you read pendragon.


    5. Message by: TeamCornerstone 09/17/2003 17:22:51 GMT
      Hi are a home school team from Brighton MI we started at arctic impact. We have been blessed by the Lord God to go to state 2 years in a row.


      1. Message by: 11/05/2003 03:04:57 GMT
        Deleted


    6. Message by: Debugs483 09/17/2003 18:52:11 GMT
      Hey fellow homeschoolers!

      We're a family team of four ( + coach and mentor which would actually make us six... )from Anchorage, AK. Last year we placed third, and won the Robust Design Award. This is out second year, and it looks great!


      1. Message by: 11/05/2003 03:05:52 GMT
        Deleted


    7. Message by: homeschoolheroes1226 09/17/2003 22:34:54 GMT
      Hi all. We are a home school team from Charleston, WV. This is our second year and the team is really excited. Last year we went to Pittsburgh and met the Salt & Light team. Boy did they know what they were doing. This year we have our own tournament in West Virginia so we will miss seeing you again. Good Luck to all and, since we have the brightest and best, lets use this as a stepping stone to MIT and beyond.


    8. Message by: Mars Defenders 301 09/24/2003 01:55:23 GMT
      Hello everyone! We are a mostly home school team from the James town, Ohio area, near Day ton. This is our second year, and I can really tell a difference in our team already. We are ready for more advanced programming and building this year. I hope you all do well.


    9. Message by: Club BOB 09/25/2003 18:45:33 GMT
      Howdy from Texas!

      I'm Susan Frederick and last season coached Team BOB, a homeschool team from all over the Houston area. I've been involved with FLL for about 4 years now. Last year our team won the Director's Award in Texas and at the nationals won the Research Award.

      We have Club BOB, an informal group for parents and kids to learn about robotics. This year I'm not hosting a team but have helped other teams get started and will help with mentoring other teams.

      We also have a robotics mailing list that anyone is welcome to join, we have people from all over, not just homeschoolers.
      http://www.jsoft.com/archive/robotics/

      FLL is a lot fun, we've learned a lot from the experience.

      Good luck to everyone this year.

      thanks,

      Susan
      Club BOB
      sjf@jsoft.com


    10. Message by: Club BOB 09/25/2003 18:53:58 GMT
      One other thing, one of main Team BOB members just moved to the Seattle area this summer. They were a big help to us - the Jorna family.

      They went to 2 competitions in Arkansas, Houston both state and national and they came to help out the Dallas competiton.

      When we started we were really lost but figured it out together. the Jorna's built our practice table and their son was one of the 2 team members up at the table each time. Very important part of our team each year. Lots of experience with FLL. Lori helped us quite a bit with fundraising through Chickfila calendars. She was sad to hear that Seattle has no stores.

      Anyway, enjoy the challenge, it's a real learning experience for both parents and kids.

      thanks,

      Susan
      Club BOB


    11. Message by: Techno Saints 961 10/02/2003 04:22:58 GMT
      Hello!

      We are mostly a home school team from Raymond New Hampshire. We are a rookie team of 7 children. We are a little overwhelmed, but are hopeful, with the Lords help, that we will get it together in time.


    12. Message by: Club BOB 10/08/2003 07:52:07 GMT
      Have fun! Try to break down the challenge into small task and be creative with your research.

      7 is a good number, I've done both big teams and small teams. With a smaller team I think the kids get more out of it and you have an easier time with crowd control issues.

      The first time we went to a competiton we had never seen one before but we did fine.

      Susan


    13. Message by: ToxicLawnGnomes624 10/17/2003 14:50:47 GMT
      what? hi ok bye......


    14. Message by: thearmyoftheLord2882 10/22/2003 22:53:24 GMT
      Hello we are homeschoolers from Pittsburgh PA. We are having trouble with our robot design. Can you give us some suggestions?


      1. Message by: ThreeAmigos1812 10/23/2003 07:25:46 GMT
        We usually start with a driving base or robot in the Constructopedia and then go from there.


    15. Message by: TheLegoWorks1859 10/30/2003 20:19:25 GMT
      Hello! Our team has 7 memebers on it and 4 of us are homeschoolers. My little sister, my little brother, and i are all on the team. My friends little brother is also on the team. We all enjoy homeschooling. Do you? It gives us more time to spend on things like our research project. My sister and I are doing some research right now actually.
      Bye from Newark OH!


    16. Message by: NASA 2034 11/01/2003 17:05:21 GMT
      NASA 2034 needs help!!! Were in MI. and have major Ice core problems. Please help .


      1. Message by: Sci-bots376 11/13/2003 17:46:51 GMT
        What do you need?
        We are in Knoxville TN and if our
        homeschool team can help they would like
        to. This is the 2nd year and they are really
        working well together.

        My husband and I insist on the kids doing 99.9%
        of the work themselves. Last year they did the same
        and still heard comments (though not to the face)
        about the parent/coach doing all the work.
        Not this team!


    17. Message by: NASA 2034 11/01/2003 17:07:23 GMT
      HOME SCHOOL STINKS AND I"M NOT IN IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


      1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 14:47:49 GMT
        Interesting... how would you know that it stinks if you haven't ever done it?


        1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 14:49:47 GMT
          Perhaps if you homeschooled you wouldn't be having ice core problems. (no joke)


        2. Message by: TheLegoWorks1859 12/05/2003 23:51:12 GMT
          I love your second line of information! It's sooooooo (etc.) cool! I love home schooling. Though I would do anything to go to school for a week. I get to travel for my dancing and if I was in school I couldn't do that. So I wouldn't be where I am in my dancing. Plus, since I am home schooled I could excel in reading and English so, I'm in 9th grade level reading and 8th grade English. & I'm in 7th grade.
          Bye!
          LegoWorks


    18. Message by: 11/05/2003 03:06:51 GMT
      Deleted


    19. Message by: 11/05/2003 03:07:31 GMT
      Deleted


    20. Message by: lcorbiters3607 11/05/2003 03:43:58 GMT
      Hello. We are not homeschoolers, but maybe you could help us. We need help (and a good explaniation) on how to move the bolders in to the launch circle. If you could help us we would appreaciate it a lot.

      Thanks!

      LC Orbiters


      1. Message by: Sci-bots376 11/13/2003 17:39:24 GMT
        If your robot sits low enough you may be able
        to just 'push' the rocks. A snow plow type of set up
        will do the same. Good Luck!
        Homeschool team 376


    21. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 14:43:04 GMT
      Home schooling... is that... legal? Isn't that just something from the 1700s?

      Just kidding, we are homeschoolers and proud to be. We live in Columbus Ohio. Any other teams from Ohio?


    22. Message by: TIGbots 12/09/2003 01:52:34 GMT
      Does anyone know how many home school teams there are in FIRST EGO? This is our first year and we had so many kids that we had to split into two teams. Both of our teams went head to head at the FL Regional Tournament in Start, FL. Our team, TIGbots2999 (Trust In God)won second place and is going to state in Melbourne. Hope to see ya'll at Nationals!


    23. Message by: Club BOB 02/01/2004 08:06:03 GMT
      I don't know an exact number of homeschool teams, but can tell you there are quite a few homeschool teams across the country.

      For the CitySights Challenge of 30 state events, 15 Director's Award Winners were homeschool teams.

      At the nationals there were several homeschool teams there. A homeschool team from Penn received the Director's Award at that event and our homeschool team won 1st place Research Presentation Award at the national held in April of 2003.

      For the Mars Challenge there were more homeschool teams than ever. Part of that has to do with the fact that compared to some other robotics events, FLL is relatively inexpensive to get into. Not too many homeschool teams have the $5,000 needed to do a FIRST high school team or the $2,000 for BotBall. Now there are quite a few homeschool teams that do BEST. BEST has hubs and only so many teams per hub get in. But with FLL, pretty much anyone with the registration money can register and start a team.

      Most of the teams at the Dallas competition were homeschool teams (and the event was run by a homeschooler). For the Houston competition there was at least 4-5 homeschool teams.

      Susan
      Club BOB
      robotics
      http://www.jsoft.com/archive/robotics/


Discussion: if you have a qestion come here. By: nasajrs3540 11/19/2003 19:56:00 GMT
ok i have a qestion.
we are working on treads.
would you say its easy or hard.
(we are having a hard time.)
please post helpful hints.

  1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 11/01/2003 18:58:47 GMT
    ok i have a qestion. we are working on treads.
    would you say its easy or hard. (we are having a hard time.) please post helpful hints.


    This is exactly the kind of thing each team should figure out for themselves. It wouldn't be any fun nor as educational or rewarding if you were just told how to do everything.

    You said in another folder that you were too lazy to read the rules and the FAQ. Any further elaboration would require some work on your part to read, and would be pointless anyway.


    1. Message by: MindStormTroopers1741 11/19/2003 19:56:00 GMT
      Okay, i have a real question.
      Our team has an important question about our research project... the habitation modules. Should we design every little detail and plan out the whole voyage? Or should it be were we just think of one little thing... say, how to supply a breath able atmosphere, and focus on that ignoring everything else? Obviously it should be neither of these extremes... but where should it be in between?



Folder: Ice Cores Research Help 11/25/2003 21:01:44 GMT
Post all of your Ice Cores questions here :)

Discussion: What is a good website where we can find info on the Ice Cores of Mars?? By: robopanther2989 11/25/2003 21:01:44 GMT
-the robopanthers of SC research team

  1. Message by: dh falcons 11/25/2003 21:01:44 GMT
    try google to searh and press ice cores



Folder: Illinois 12/10/2003 18:57:55 GMT


Discussion: Teams in Illinois By: Charleston1687 12/06/2003 18:34:15 GMT
Hello, We are a new team and are looking for mentors or advice. Are there any teams in our area? We are located about 1 hour south of Champaign Illinois.

  1. Message by: Rebels1051 09/24/2003 01:10:20 GMT
    Hi! i'm Becca,i'm a second year at this and my advise to you is to double check EVERYTHING!! last year at the tournument, we never checked our programmimng, and our robot fried on the table! Team: R.E.B.E.L.S. (Robotic Engineers Beginning to Evolve Life's Standards) What team are you on? (we're @ Holmes middle school in Wheeling,IL)


    1. Message by: Charleston1687 09/24/2003 04:29:23 GMT
      Thanks, Our kids haven't come up with a name yet. They are really new to this. We are located in Charleston, Il, and the kids are all in 4th and 5th grade. We wondered if anyone is south of Kankakee? The kids are just starting to figure out the programming and designing of the robot.

      Karla
      Charleston1687


    2. Message by: ORBIT1941 09/25/2003 05:45:08 GMT
      Hi,
      I am a coach in Ottawa, Ill. The Streator ,Ill teams and my teams are planning a regional tournament to be held in Streator on 12/6. If you are interested let me know.
      ORBIT


      1. Message by: Charleston1687 09/25/2003 15:24:47 GMT
        We are interested. Who do we contact?


    3. Message by: Rebels1051 09/25/2003 06:03:11 GMT
      Hi this is Becca again, 4th and 5th is really young for teams! our teams start in 6th, i'm in 7th this year. A good way to build your bot is to start with a desgin from the book and just improve on that. Are you using a RIS code for your program or the Robotic mindstorms thing(i don't know the name)


    4. Message by: Charleston1687 09/25/2003 15:27:33 GMT
      My son is in 5th, so that was how we ended up with those grades. They currently are modifying the robot in one of the handouts we found. We have both the Robolab and the RIS 2.0 (the Mindstorm thing). The are working with the RIS 2.0 and will have to build up to the Robolab version. Hopefully our school will get interested and start a team for next year. - My email is kquad@consolidated.net if anyone wants to email me.

      Karla


    5. Message by: AI2316 10/15/2003 18:17:41 GMT
      hi


    6. Message by: AI2316 10/15/2003 18:19:53 GMT
      what's up! how are you doing? you don't have any competition with us because you suck. just kidding


    7. Message by: AI2316 10/15/2003 18:20:37 GMT
      we live in virginia. what's your team called?


    8. Message by: AI2316 10/15/2003 18:20:50 GMT
      talk to me dude


      1. Message by: Point Blank 10/23/2003 16:53:33 GMT
        what? were team Point blank. how are you? whatz yer teamz name? We live in Illinois in the chicagoland area!


    9. Message by: Rebels1051 10/23/2003 23:10:05 GMT
      Team Rebels, in Wheeling IL, not to far from Chicagoland


    10. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/29/2003 22:37:46 GMT
      We are a team in Chicago ILL, and we use the mind storms


    11. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/03/2003 23:18:27 GMT
      on the first part after you exeted the base can you put the ramp back up?


    12. Message by: panthers816 11/06/2003 18:54:56 GMT
      Can we put lego magnets on the robot?


      1. Message by: Point Blank 11/08/2003 21:38:02 GMT
        Like I posted you can put anything on your robot as long as it is a lego piece. so yes u can use magnets.


    13. Message by: 11/08/2003 21:30:59 GMT
      Deleted


    14. Message by: panthers816 11/13/2003 23:38:51 GMT
      Does an arm motor count as one of the three motors?


      1. Message by: Legonauts4 11/14/2003 19:42:01 GMT
        Yes, you are only allowed 3 motors total. The rules do not care how you use the parts. The rule states you are only allowed three motors at the table. This goes for the other parts identified in the rules as well. The rule does not state how the parts may be used just what parts are allowed to be braught to the table.

        -Dave
        Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605


    15. Message by: panthers816 11/19/2003 23:18:56 GMT
      After all of the rocks are picked up during a competion, can you still pick up your robot and bring it to base?


      1. Message by: harris-194 11/19/2003 23:30:11 GMT
        Yes, and since there are no more rocks, there are no more penalties.

        Courtney
        Harris-194


      2. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/19/2003 23:31:12 GMT
        Yes you can. At that point you stop lossing bonus objects.
        This prevents a demoralizing negative score or a team that
        can't do anything because their robot is 'lost for good'.

        -Skye


    16. Message by: panthers816 11/27/2003 00:26:08 GMT
      Can my team use a laser pointer to aim the robot?


      1. Message by: harris-194 11/27/2003 03:56:27 GMT
        What a coincidence! Just today my kids were wishing there was a lego laser pointer so they could use that to aim!

        No, you can't use a laser pointer. Any jigs or aiming devices must be made of legos. Since the kids couldn't use a laser pointer they made a lego gun sight. Works pretty good too.

        Cheers,
        Courtney
        Harris-194


    17. Message by: panthers816 12/06/2003 01:54:48 GMT
      Does our robot have to be completly in base when we can pick it up without penalty? Please answer my question quickly!!!!


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 12/06/2003 18:33:56 GMT
        No, in order to be picked up without penalty, just some part of the robot (attached to the RCX) needs to be in the base.

        Be careful, however, as if the robot is bringing back either the rover or the ice cores, points for those objects are only awarded if the object itself is at least partially in the base volume.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


Discussion: Teams in Ottawa, IL By: Leggo Shindiggies 2872 11/22/2003 02:54:55 GMT
I am trying to find out how many teams there are in Ottawa, IL. Please email me at nucsro@mchsi.com or reply to this discussion.
Thanks

  1. Message by: ORBIT1941 10/02/2003 04:53:03 GMT
    I have two teams of 6th graders at Central Elementary School in Ottawa.


    1. Message by: Legoshindiggies2872 10/02/2003 07:09:59 GMT
      Now I know who you are. I guess we are the only ones this year.


    2. Message by: Legoshindiggies2872 11/22/2003 02:54:55 GMT
      Hi. It's Dylan and Matt. Bye.


Discussion: MAV Launcher By: buildersofbots419 12/10/2003 18:57:55 GMT
Hi! We are a 6th grade team in Barrington. We are wondering if other teams are finding the MAV Launcher difficult to release. Is it supposed to be velcroed to the table?

  1. Message by: harris-194 10/09/2003 22:25:57 GMT
    Yes the MAV launcher is attached to the mat with the Dual-lock.

    It should work pretty easily, check your building instructions carefully. I saw a MAV launcher where part of the pivot mechanism that locks the ring down was put on wrong (rotated 90 degrees), at first glance it looked okay, but pushing on the bar just caused this part to push against the table and it would fail to launch.

    I've attached a jpg of the joint in question, in the picture it is built correctly.

    Hope that helps,
    Courtney
    harris-194


    1. Message by: buildersofbots419 10/13/2003 16:54:47 GMT
      how does the alliance habitation module stay up if the other team doesn't have their side up?


      1. Message by: Brick Busters 10/31/2003 04:48:42 GMT
        Hello. I don't exactly know how it stays up, but it does even if the other team doesn't put their side up. Realize that both teams must put their sides up or neither team gets any points.

        Brick Busters (sixth grade team) Programmer
        Sussex (near Milwaukee) Wisconsin


    2. Message by: buildersofbots419 10/13/2003 16:57:22 GMT
      Are all of the mission modules attached to the mat with dual-lock?


      1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/13/2003 18:01:51 GMT
        Some, but not all, of the the mission models are attached to the mat with dual-lock. For specific details on how to attach the appropriate models, follow the link below:


        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: STRIPES924 12/10/2003 18:57:55 GMT
      Hi! We're a 6th grade team in Palatine. We used a motorized arm in a Mindstorms book. If you're going to state, you'll see. We're STRIPES standing for... Sanborn's Team of Robotically Inclined Phenomenally Energetic Students!!!!!!


Discussion: HELP!! By: The Dust Devils1053 11/14/2003 17:31:06 GMT
Hi I would like to know if there is any info on this websute that could help me out??? Thanks

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/14/2003 04:57:55 GMT
    You will have to be much more specific. Preferably ask your
    technical questions in the proper folder under rules.

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/14/2003 17:31:06 GMT
      we dont know


Discussion: TEAMWORK By: The Dust Devils1053 12/10/2003 18:51:23 GMT
Hi! My name is Katie from wheeling! My group is really falling apart! We even have half the group on a different RCX! could any one give us advice on working as a whole group? We really Need it! Katie

  1. Message by: Point Blank 12/03/2003 00:49:27 GMT
    Ok Katie,
    I have heard your team argue and I know how hard it is so you should just sit down and discuss what's wrong. I do know that your team is full of a bunch of noisy, immature boys so try your best. I'll talk to ya later!
    *Lauren*


    1. Message by: STRIPES924 12/10/2003 18:51:23 GMT
      Try to separate into groups of programmers, researchers, and builders, and then come together for about an hour a day. That way everyone can do what their good at, and everyone can work together.



Folder: Indiana 03/02/2004 14:33:49 GMT



Folder: 6 Little Alien FACTS 10/28/2003 02:51:15 GMT
MARS FACTS:

*There are tornadoes on mars, therefor there is wind on mars

*A mars day is only slightly longer than a earth day

*Mars is a tiny bit smallar than earth
_________________________________________________________________
ROVER FACTS:

*A rover is sort of a robot that is sent to mars to colect rocks and take pictures and stuff

*


Folder: 6 LITTLE ALIENS 12/03/2003 21:39:35 GMT
6 Little Aliens Info.

The team 6 Little Aliens was created by Kavon,Catlin,Benjamin,Katie,Jacob,and Greg. With the help of the coaches Mr.Corona,Mr. and Mrs.Breedon, and Mr.Smith.With the help of are coaches we have sucsesfully made a great team and work hard. This has helped us a ton. Our team song is The Fight Song Of The 6 Little Aliens.We are a group from Prarie Vista. Prarie Vista is locatied in Granger .We named our robot Robo Bob. We still are working because we have a touniment 12/7/03 so cheer for us!

Discussion: you sound exited By: AstroKats2544 12/03/2003 21:39:35 GMT
we don't have a team song but we have a cool name

  1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:29:01 GMT
    We are The Red Space Monkeez, our team song is brass monkey.
    We are from Hammond.


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 12/03/2003 21:39:35 GMT
      We are the blaine bawt heads!!!Good luck!!!



Folder: don't you hate it when your frinds think that being in the teens dorent mean you can't play with lego's 01/08/2004 05:59:08 GMT


Discussion: In My 40's! By: Eggo My Legos 01/08/2004 05:59:08 GMT
Are you kidding?! I'm in my 40's and still playing with Lego's. And, get this, my team has 6 GIRLS in their TEENS playing with Legos. They gave the 3 boys on the team a run for thier money!


Folder: Mars Information 12/03/2003 15:32:20 GMT
I need information, ideas, and\or suggestions for a Mars Information bulletin board I'm putting up in our school. If you have any ideas let me know.
Thanks, cls1820

Discussion: bulliton By: AstroKats2544 12/03/2003 15:32:20 GMT
how about some typ of robot on it


Folder: Northern Indiana Teams 12/03/2003 21:44:53 GMT



Folder: South Bend-Granger area 11/26/2003 19:36:12 GMT


Discussion: What up By: roboticmeltdown2998 10/29/2003 00:20:05 GMT
We are the crab people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not really, were the Robotic Meltdown and we'll smite you all with our fist of doom(I)
-Sincerely
Matt Zakrowski

Discussion: What up By: roboticmeltdown2998 11/26/2003 19:36:12 GMT
We are the crab people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not really, were the Robotic Meltdown and we'll smite you all with our fist of doom(R)
-Sincerly
Matt Zakrowski

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/29/2003 22:15:19 GMT
    when u take out ure batery 4 ure robot does it have to be rebut or did we do some thing rong?


    1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/29/2003 22:23:05 GMT
      If you read the handbook at
      http://fll-freak.home.comcast.net you will find a trick
      that prevents you from having to re-program the robot
      when you change batteries.

      -Skye


    2. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 11/26/2003 19:36:12 GMT
      If you take the batteries out you have to reformat.



Folder: Valparaiso 10/28/2003 23:02:06 GMT
We are a rookie team near Valparaiso
Anyone located near us?

Discussion: Hi Cybearcats By: Morton Magic 540 10/28/2003 23:05:41 GMT
We are located in Hammond - not too far from you. We are a third year team and just wanted to wish you good luck in your rookie year. Morton Magic

  1. Message by: 6 Little Aliens268 10/28/2003 02:32:05 GMT
    We are The Six Little Aliens. We're from Prarie Vista Elementry in Granger near South Bend. I'm Caitlin. S. BJ. C, Greg. B, Kavon. B, Katie. Z and Jacob. H are next to me.
    Well good-bye.
    The 6 Little Aliens


    1. Message by: 10/28/2003 23:02:06 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Practice Tournament? By: Bremen Botz! 11/15/2003 18:55:21 GMT
Is there any interest in having a 'Practice Tournament' somewhere in Northern Indiana. I am sure we could get access to a school in the area to hold it.

It would be helpful for our students to get some practice in the competition environment before doing the 'real thing'

Les Turner
195 - The Bremen Botz!

  1. Message by: Legonauts4 09/16/2003 19:15:11 GMT
    Yes, we are also interested in having a 'Practice Tournament' I will try to get LaSalle Academy in South Bend for this. Any preferences for dates?

    Dave Kolberg
    4 - Explorers
    2605 - Lyons


    1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 09/18/2003 18:12:49 GMT
      I would say a couple weeks before the ND/Science Central tournaments. That would give a chance to test everything close to the tournament while leaving time to regroup.

      Maybe the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving?

      Les Turner
      195 - The Bremen Botz!


    2. Message by: NDREF7700 09/25/2003 15:21:37 GMT
      This Dan Hummel. I have been asked again to participate as the Head Referee at the ND. Tournament and at the Indiana State level tournament. I would like to participate in the practice tournament, if possible. I would also like to come and visit your teams during the season to observe what is going on and if you/they have any questions. Please, let me know, when and where you meet, if you want me to attend your meeting. You can contact me at DLHUMMEL0@AOL.COM or (574) 264-0569.


      1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 10/09/2003 03:15:02 GMT
        I think that would be great... I am going to be meeting with David Kolberg (FLL Team from LaSalle Magnet School in SB) to try and work out the details. He has thrown out a date of Nov 21? at LaSalle School. I will keep you posted.

        I think it would be great if you could meet with our kids at one of our meetings. I am sure they would love to show their stuff and ask questions. We typically meet Tue or Thu from 6-8PM (varies from week-to-week) and Sat from 2-4PM... I will work on getting you our schedule...

        Les Turner
        The Bremen Botz! #195


    3. Message by: Legonauts4 10/10/2003 22:12:21 GMT
      So far the practice tournament will be on Saturday November 22nd late morning to early afternoon ad LaSalle Intermediate Academy (formerly LaSalle High School). I will publish more details after we have a chance to meet and set more up.

      Dave
      Coach #4 & #2605


    4. Message by: cls1820 10/30/2003 22:06:58 GMT
      Where is LaSalle Itermediate Academy? Our group might come if we knew where it was! Could you tell us where it is? Thank you, cls1820


    5. Message by: Legonauts4 10/31/2003 19:01:37 GMT
      The LaSalle Intermediate Academy is the new name for the old LaSalle High School in South Bend Indiana. It is located just off of Linconway between downtown and the airport. The address is 2701 West Elwood Ave, South Bend, In 46619. It is part of the South Bend Community School Corporation. We can handle up to 20 teams. This will be the first year for this and we will concentrate on the robot tasks and not the presentations this year. We are looking at doing 3 rounds and then having elimination rounds to find the winner. We will also open it up to any club teams that would like to participate (club teams are kids that work on FLL but are not on the official team).

      The web site with information should be up shortly www.bremenrobotics.org/lasalle. In the meantime you can contact me to sign up or for more details.

      David Kolberg
      David.Kolberg@Honeywell.com
      Coach #4 & #2605


    6. Message by: Bittersweet3269 11/06/2003 23:10:21 GMT
      Ther is a chance that we might be intrested in also competing. Or at least watching. I am not sure are robot would be ready by then.


      1. Message by: NDREF7700 11/15/2003 18:55:21 GMT
        Bittersweet3269 Coach:

        I have several video tapes from the previous FLL season that might be useful. This will let your team see the excitment but getting the feeling first hand by attending the practice tournament would be better. I can also come out to your team meeting and answer any questions. Pleae let me know if you want me to attend your team meeting?

        Dan Hummel
        Notre Dame Head Referee


    7. Message by: Legonauts4 11/07/2003 22:56:07 GMT
      It would be worth coming even if your robot can only do one mission. Our rookie year, we went to a local tournament and did very badly, I don't think we were even able to complete one task. However, this gave the team a shot in the arm and they worked the next week very hard and we went on to win the state championship and the directors award that year (our rookie year). It also gave our drivers a chance to see what it is like to compete against other teams. They were less nervous during the championship runs.

      Dave
      Coach #4 & #2605



Folder: THE 6 LITTLE ALIEN FILES 12/03/2003 21:47:52 GMT
Facts about 6 LITTLE ALIENS:

* 6 Little Aliens was created by B.J, Kavon, Jacob, Greg, Caitlin, Katie. Together we've been working on a great robot.
*We also got working on a team song, The 6 Little Aliens Fight song.

Discussion: good luck By: raidersrobotics267 12/03/2003 21:47:52 GMT
this is the shenandoah middle school team and we wish you good luck.

  1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:30:46 GMT
    Where are you from? We're from Hammond.Wish you luck.


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 12/03/2003 21:47:52 GMT
      we from chicago good luck.


Discussion: sdf By: 2192mustangs 12/03/2003 19:23:41 GMT
I wish you luck

  1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:23:41 GMT
    As we you.


Discussion: hello teams By: cardinals_from_mars 12/03/2003 19:21:57 GMT
Hello our team name is Cardinals_From_Mars. We're from Hammond, IN. we have alot done with our robots. We're working habitation modules. See you later.

  1. Message by: MemorialMustangs1642 11/18/2003 22:00:07 GMT
    Hail the Tripods


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/18/2003 22:42:57 GMT
      Hello.Nice job!!!WE thought we missed some on ours,and we gave up.It looks really cool!Do you think you get any points for it?

      BYE!!^-^


    2. Message by: Robosharks406 11/18/2003 23:15:01 GMT
      Roboshark send their greetings!


    3. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 11/26/2003 19:42:46 GMT
      Hello we're the red space Monkeez, we are from hammond too. We're Scott's team. Wish you guys lots of luck.


    4. Message by: 12/02/2003 22:13:07 GMT
      Deleted


    5. Message by: Morton Magic 540 12/02/2003 22:16:14 GMT
      Hey guys. Morton Magic also from Hammond here. Wishing everyone who is attending the Purdue Calumet tournament on Sunday good luck.


      1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:21:57 GMT
        Hi! Wats up? See you at Purdue, Good Luck.


Discussion: mars By: 2192mustangs 11/04/2003 19:46:31 GMT


Discussion: where is the ball? By: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:17:29 GMT
What does the ball go on, A Canister? It was shown on a black circle. What is it on? And where? The base?

THANKS,
Red Space Monkeez

  1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 21:51:42 GMT
    Sorry we no not know but if we find out we will tell you.


    1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 11/26/2003 19:38:59 GMT
      We found out at our city compition, it is on a black circle called a canister. The canister is located in the base. You have to start your program with the ball on the canister.


    2. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/26/2003 22:36:31 GMT
      Thanks we needed to know that


    3. Message by: Legonauts4 12/01/2003 15:58:37 GMT
      The canister is to hold the ball in the base. You can remove the canister and hold the ball any time you like while it is in the base. You can place the ball on your robot. The robot does not have to pick anything up in the base. Humans are available in the base to place any items that the robot needs onto the robot.

      -Dave
      Coach Legonauts#4 & LegoPeople#2605


      1. Message by: Red Space Monkeez 12/03/2003 19:17:29 GMT
        Thanks, we didn't know that.


Discussion: Allowable Parts By: CentralSpaceLab465 11/25/2003 22:38:45 GMT
A team at the Pursue State Qualifying Tournament had three vehicles, each with 2 motors, and they moved the RCX from one frame to another after each mission. They had 6 motors on the table at one time.

I believe this is a violation of the 3 motors rule, is it not?

The Pursue judges allowed them to compete.

Does anyone know if this is acceptable?

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 11/24/2003 02:09:13 GMT
    In my book this is certain violation.

    If the referee accepted this, they were not well trained.
    Of course, it is a little late for corrective action. But
    a talk with the head ref now to explain the issue for next
    year would be in order.

    As a funny case in point, the competition I went to this
    weekend, they only gave us 2 minutes the first round. They
    messed up the first few matches, so rather than re-running
    they just keept it at 2 minutes. Talk about an unplanned
    scramble as we re-ordered our mission 10 minutes before our
    turn at the table! The last two rounds were at 2.5 minutes.
    Scores were better!

    -Skye


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/25/2003 22:38:45 GMT
      i belive so


Discussion: If you made it toState send a reply By: AstroKats2544 03/02/2004 14:33:49 GMT
I can't wait until state but I am nerves

  1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 12/11/2003 06:17:41 GMT
    We are in and looking forward to going...

    Don't be nervous, getting to state is an accomplishment to be proud of. Where is your team from? We are from Bremen (about 20 miles south of South Bend).

    Les Turner
    Bremen Botz! - 195


    1. Message by: AstroKats2544 12/11/2003 17:15:03 GMT
      cool i wish you good luck


    2. Message by: AstroKats2544 03/02/2004 14:33:49 GMT
      no fair



Folder: Iowa 12/16/2004 19:44:35 GMT



Folder: what problems are you having 12/05/2003 00:40:37 GMT


Discussion: who's out there By: ISSSrocketeers1762 12/16/2004 19:44:35 GMT
Hi everyone! My name is Natasha and I am a coach for a team here in Iowa. It's my first time being involved with FLL. So I'm just wondering who is out there and where everyone is from and what your experience is. Have fun!

  1. Message by: Huskies 10/10/2003 19:56:07 GMT
    We have about 15 teams in the Cedar Rapids area... Having a great time coaching/helping the kids this year...


    1. Message by: PellaFirst1926 10/11/2003 04:32:38 GMT
      From the Pella area we will be fielding two teams. One is a returning team from last year the other is a young rookie team. These are rural teams made up of kids from around Marion County. Coach Bailey.


      1. Message by: Huskies 11/19/2003 21:05:38 GMT
        Coach Bailey

        I was wondering how the two teams are doing? You did great last year at Ames... Look forward to see your teams robots in action...

        Gregg (Coach Cedar Valley Christian School) Huskies..
        gregg@thelinds.net


    2. Message by: 10/15/2003 02:55:26 GMT
      Deleted


    3. Message by: Dragons901 10/15/2003 02:56:57 GMT
      One team from Johnston will be entering the competition this December. The coach is Mary Zirkelbach.


    4. Message by: LegoPussycats3264 10/21/2003 21:22:44 GMT
      Hi, Robert Alden here from Colo-NESCO Middle School. We will be sending two teams to the state competition in Ames. First time teams here, learning as we go.


    5. Message by: Raiders 1402 10/23/2003 23:32:32 GMT
      I'm Leslie, and I'm also a first time coach for a first time team from Omaha, Nebraska. Iowa is our closest competition.


      1. Message by: AZK3535 12/09/2004 23:18:45 GMT
        Hi Leslie, I am in Yutan Nebraska. Are you going to the Cedar Rapids Tournament? If so, we'll see you there!


    6. Message by: 10/29/2003 02:03:28 GMT
      Deleted


    7. Message by: 10/29/2003 02:05:33 GMT
      Deleted


    8. Message by: Dragons901 11/05/2003 18:00:21 GMT
      Are you going to the state tournoment at ISU or the one in Cedar Rapids?


    9. Message by: biobots876405 12/16/2004 19:44:35 GMT
      the biobots 876



Folder: Kentucky 10/29/2003 23:07:16 GMT


Discussion: Hi, Everyone By: Robocats1628 10/29/2003 23:07:16 GMT
We are the Robocats from Whitefield Academy in Louisville. Who else is out there from Kentucky?
Any one know of any plans for a local or state tournament in Kentucky this year?

  1. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/08/2003 21:49:11 GMT
    Hey I'm from Florence


    1. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/09/2003 00:26:00 GMT
      im on the same team as the person above^^


    2. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/09/2003 02:57:25 GMT
      So am i


    3. Message by: KC1191 09/09/2003 16:10:00 GMT
      We're from Crestwood, about 15 miles NE of Louisville in Oldham County.

      This is our first year, and we're still trying to figure out what we need to be doing.

      I doubt there are to be any events in KY this year. I spoke to a lady at FLL a few days ago and she didn't know of any in the works.

      Kentucky Colonels, Team 1191


      1. Message by: Robocats1628 09/30/2003 15:39:19 GMT
        Welcome Colonels! You are in for the most awesome experience! This is our second year and we're still trying to figure out what we need to be doing too. We have exploded from one team to three, with five assistant coaches, a couple of faculty mentors, and three (hopefully) high school studends as "coaches in training". Now our biggest challenge is funding everything times three. I found the two biggest helps last year were the coaches manual, and reading everything everyone said on the forum. The forum answered a lot of questions I didn't even know to ask.
        Good luck!


    4. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/10/2003 02:48:07 GMT
      What grade are you in? We are in 8th grade at Ockerman middle School.


    5. Message by: RoboGeeks2024 09/15/2003 22:49:15 GMT
      darkness filled this chatroom as the RoboGeeks enter the room. Fwahhahaha


    6. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/16/2003 02:31:36 GMT
      How many teams are in Kentucky this year??????


    7. Message by: Blaine bat heads 10/29/2003 23:07:16 GMT
      whats up dudes greeting from the blaine bat heads.
      write to us some time tell us who you are and what is your robot is like. good luck bye for now!!!!!!


Discussion: New Missions Details By: Ockerman Titans2021 09/09/2003 02:59:17 GMT
Post any Mission details here, please.

  1. Message by: Ockerman Titans2021 09/09/2003 02:59:17 GMT
    I don't know any yet.


Discussion: Greetings By: Ockerman Titans2021 10/21/2003 01:45:41 GMT
Does anyone know any details about the MARS MISSIONS yet? If so please send them to me.

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/10/2003 14:13:14 GMT
    All mission details will be made public on Sept 15.


    1. Message by: metal martians 2537 10/21/2003 01:45:41 GMT
      Also the details will be on a website that has something to do with lego leag.


Discussion: Kentucky Tournament By: RoboGeeks2024 10/03/2003 04:12:06 GMT
Kentucky teams: There is currently a preliminary plan to have a small state tournament for Kentucky this year. It will take place somewhere in Northern Kentucky, probably at NKU. I'll keeep you posted. --Randy Wilson, OMS Robotics Team Coach.

  1. Message by: Rusty Engineers 09/22/2003 14:58:59 GMT
    Randy:
    Our team is anxiously awaiting additional news on the Kentucky event. The info on the web site states exact date and time to be announced, yet there is a date of December 6 listed. Do you know if that date is firm?
    Thanks,
    Paul Tagher,
    Coach -- Rusty Engineers
    ps. Our team is also from Northern Kentucky -- 3 from St. Agnes, 1 from Villa, and another from St. Paul -- so hello, neighbor. I've heard a lot of good things about your program.


    1. Message by: RoboGeeks2024 09/29/2003 17:08:47 GMT
      It looks like the KY state tournament will be on Saturday, Dec. 20th at Summit View Middle School in Kenton County. I will be e-mailing all KY teams with more info soon!


    2. Message by: HighVoltage_1489 10/03/2003 04:12:06 GMT
      Could we get added to the information list? Our email is in our profile. Thanks! Sounds exciting that Kentucky will be having a tournament.



Folder: LEGO MINDSTORMS DOOMED?! 01/20/2004 04:54:10 GMT
I heard today LEGO will no longer be making mindstorms...
What does this mean for FLL?

Jim of Team Tiger, Pelham NH

Discussion: Do not panic yet! By: Tekno Devils40 01/20/2004 04:54:10 GMT
The press release I read from LEGO did not say that they would
discontinue Mindstorms. They did say that they would
discontinue making NEW electronic and computer products. LEGO
is 'probably' not stupid enough to stop making a product they
already have developed. They will probably simply not develop
new electronic products.

Even in the event that they stop selling Mindstorm kits to the
public, they can still sell them via Pitsco. From what I have
seen, LEGO is very involved in FLL and will insure it keeps
going one way or another.

-Skye

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 01/13/2004 13:54:54 GMT
    As I said, do not panic. This just in from lugnet:

    Subject: The sky is *not* falling
    Author: Jake McKee
    Newsgroups: lugnet.lego
    Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2004 17:10:12 GMT
    From: Jake McKee

    In the last few days, I*ve seen much discussion, and recevied many questions about the future of the company. As you probably saw/heard, 2003 was a rough year for the LEGO Company, for a number of reasons. Kjeld has retaken the helm, and has said that we are returning to *our core*.

    Rest assured, *our core* simply means our toy business. Which is to say, our toy product lines present and future.

    Licenses

    Harry Potter and Star Wars are NOT going away any time soon. Licenses are not going to stop, simply continue to improve. We have to take (and have taken) steps to ensure we manage the peaks and valleys that licensing brings with it (Movie years vs. non-movie years, for example). We are still going to be going after the top licenses with the right brand fit.

    In fact, we have announced what I think is going to be a great license today:

    Dora the Explorer

    Mindstorms

    Mindstorms is not going away, but may continue to evolve. Like all technology products, Mindstorms will continue to grow and improve as consumers gain new technology knowledge and technology itself continues to get better and smaller.

    WWYM Line

    Another fear I*ve heard is that the *What Will You Make?* line is going away. This is not true, and the 2003 product line showed great success and potential. Stay tuned for more great WWYM products in 2004!

    More information will be forthcoming, as the changes progress.

    Thanks!
    Jake

    ---
    Jake McKee
    Community Development Manager
    LEGO Community Development


    1. Message by: TeamTiger298 01/13/2004 16:12:50 GMT
      Whew, that's a relief!


    2. Message by: fenderbenders1022 01/13/2004 18:00:14 GMT
      There was a post on LUGNET late on Monday from someone from LEGO. It appears that Mindstorms is safe.

      http://news.lugnet.com/lego/?n=625

      All is not lost. Don't Panic.

      -Jon Gilchrist


    3. Message by: Wildcats1099 01/20/2004 04:54:10 GMT
      I listened to an interview on National Public Radio the other day with two business analysts who specialized in LEGO. (Sorry, I don't remember which day or the name of the show) Anyway, they said that the school market for Mindstorms is growing so rapidly at this point, especially in places like China and Singapore, that it would be hard to imagine LEGO giving up that product line. Their only concern was that the profit margin on school sales is fairly low, but they felt that the exposure Lego gets to their high profit market (parents) by being in the schools outweighs the low margins. I hope they're right!
      Monica



Folder: Maine 01/20/2004 17:08:45 GMT
Discussion for Maine Teams


Folder: New Tournament Listing 01/20/2004 17:08:45 GMT
In Worcester, Massachusetts we are holding an end of the year tournament at Quinsigamond Community College and wanted to invite all of you Maine teams down to Mass on February 28th! It will be a large tournament with a lot of awards. If you are interested, contact Betty at blauer@qcc.mass.edu!

Discussion: Welcome to Maine By: UMaineState 11/06/2003 02:15:52 GMT
Hi to all Maine teams. My name is Tom Bickford and I host and run the Maine State Tournament. I wanted to wish you all the best of luck this season and look forward to seeing you here on December 7th!

Tom.

  1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/26/2003 19:02:40 GMT
    Tom,

    My team competed at Maine for Arctic Impact. You had a
    great tournament. Beat of luck to you. I know how hard
    it is to run a tournament.

    -Skye Sweeney


    1. Message by: The Marvins1966 10/16/2003 17:59:08 GMT
      Hey We are kinda new to this!!! o well Go us!! good luck to everyone else!!!!! GOOD LUCK!!!!!!


    2. Message by: Sparks 10/29/2003 23:23:22 GMT
      Heya, this is our first time doing robotics. We are glad to be doing this .. hehehe ...


    3. Message by: Sparks 10/29/2003 23:26:21 GMT
      Were new at this and we are ready to rumble ( As soon as we build our robot and do our research paper) Great luck to everyone else.
      Also, we are wondering if anyone is doing the MAV Launcher for the research project.


      1. Message by: 10/29/2003 23:28:46 GMT
        Deleted


        1. Message by: Sparks 10/29/2003 23:31:16 GMT
          My name is Angela .. and umm, Zeke iz here .. "HI!!!" Says Zeke.


          1. Message by: 10/29/2003 23:32:36 GMT
            Deleted


    4. Message by: Sparks 10/29/2003 23:28:14 GMT
      Heya, this is our first time doing robotics. We are glad to be doing this .. hehehe ...


    5. Message by: 11/04/2003 22:14:17 GMT
      Deleted


    6. Message by: Sparks 11/04/2003 22:14:53 GMT
      How do you use the program!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


      1. Message by: 11/06/2003 02:15:52 GMT
        Deleted


    7. Message by: 11/04/2003 22:16:36 GMT
      Deleted


Discussion: Research Projects By: TechnicalTigers 11/10/2003 22:11:52 GMT
The kids working on our research project are curious if it would be okay to do a Powerpoint Presentation. I can't find anywhere that says we can't, but just wanted to check :)

The Technical Tigers, Jackman

  1. Message by: Orono Team 1 11/06/2003 22:23:22 GMT
    Technical Tigers: You may bring whatever you want to do your presentation, except something that would endanger either team members or the audience, so no chain saws, lasers, or flammable products.

    You can sing and dance or do a PowerPoint presentation, however, you must bring everything with you and you will only have about 5 minutes to set everything up.

    Good Luck, the Maine LEGO Guy (Tom Bickford)


    1. Message by: Blaine bat heads 11/10/2003 22:11:52 GMT
      Hi



Folder: Marketing, Fundraising and PR 01/19/2004 22:39:40 GMT
Use this folder to discuss, comment or ask questions about Marketing, Fundraising and PR.


Folder: FLL Awareness and general PR 10/01/2003 15:19:53 GMT
For ideas related to making sponsors aware of FLL and general PR related ideas.

Discussion: sponsors unfamiilar with FLL By: Club BOB 10/01/2003 15:19:53 GMT
Ideas for how to make potential sponsors aware of FLL

  1. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 04:23:41 GMT
    In the school question folder, the following question was raised that I wanted to comment on:

    <
    Hi Skye: I don't envy you and your problem. However, I'm intrigued to hear that your employer is financing each team. Is this simply a donation for the schools or is your employer's business related to robotics, science, etc.? We're trying to find a sponsor for our team in the Richmond, VA area but have had no luck this year. Not much is known about this competition so it's a hard sell. The other thing about cutting back on team members is that there are fewer parents involved including those who might know of a potential sponsor. Anyway, good luck.

    Mark
    Irken Invaders >>

    Hi Mark, when we first started doing FLL it was a hard sell for us to find sponsors because so many people had not yet heard of FLL.

    Here's a few suggestions for you

    1. put together a short description that explains what FLL is and include some of the history, how many children are involved worldwide, how many events take place. Be sure to mention that Dean Kamen is involved. Even if they have not heard about FLL, many have heard of the Segway. Stress the educational goals of FLL including reference to research and real world problem solving and teamwork and the math and engineering the kids learn. Include the fact that it's associated with FIRST high school robotics, which has been around for 10 years now.

    2. look for news articles related to FLL, it's been around long enough that a google search should bring up at least a few.

    3. put together a short intro about your team, what school they are from, ect.

    4. include the fact that your group is looking for potential sponsors.

    5. if you have a state event you will be attending be sure to mention that you will be in competition and give the date and location.

    6. include contact information so people can get back to you if they are interested in helping your team.

    7. include website links so that potential sponsors can read more.

    Print it on nice paper to hand out to potential sponsors.

    Also submit your press release to the local newspaper. If you can get them to print it and do a story on your team, then you increase the odds that a company will be willing to help support your team. Include an action picture of your team with the robots/playing field.

    Good luck, when we first started many people didn't even know what LEGO Mindstorms was, but at least most are famiilar with that now.

    thanks,

    Susan
    Club BOB


    1. Message by: Irken Invaders 10/01/2003 06:03:18 GMT
      Thanks, Susan. Great ideas.

      Coach Mark
      Irken Invaders


      1. Message by: BNI927 10/01/2003 15:19:53 GMT
        Mark -

        If you are doing any presentations in front of potential sponsors, you are welcome to include the tournament highlight video I put together from our Illinois State tournament last year. You can down load it from
        http://www.hightechkids.org/ilfll/volunteers/



Folder: Fund Raising Ideas 10/21/2003 07:50:54 GMT
The hat day is still a quick easy and no money involved way to raise money. Maybe at least once a month the robotics team could do this. Print up the "hat coupons" to be put on the hats so you know who is participating. That's it..... just sell the coupon to wear on a hat on hat day "so and so" for a buck each and you have free easy money. $300.00

Paper Airplane Contest
Have a paper airplane contest from an upper floor of your building. (Gym) This would relate to engineering way of life also. $1 a plane, one afternoon or during lunch. Or during a science class.

Lunch Box Auction -** Have students create gourmet lunches to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.* Give prizes for the most creative, nutritious, elegant or humorous. The team could make a profit off of the meal and tips.

Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest
Plan a Halloween theme and hold a pumpkin-carving contest. Find a local business willing to donate pumpkins for your organization to sell to your students. Employees or students buy pumpkins for their families to use in
the contest. Charge $5 to enter and $1 per vote. Award prizes for various categories: best traditional, most creative, best effort by group, best effort by an individual. Throw a party to end your campaign and charge an entry fee. Maybe a dance or kiddie carnival.

Spelling Bee - *Organize a spelling bee with participants paying an entry fee.* Have other students pay to place bets on the winner.* Award the winners with a special incentive.

Coin War -* (Auburn / Alabama cans) Set up large, empty cans for each class, department, hall, or floor * Have students drop their spare change into the cans.* Coins are positive, while paper money is negative.* Students can sabotage other cans by dropping paper money into them.* The class with the most money in their can wins, with the money going to the Robotics team. May what to watch the cans in a secure place or with a locked lid. We would want more going in than out.

Executive Chair Race -* Set up a relay course for teachers and admin. to go through, either sitting in a chair or on tricycles.* Let observers bet on their favorite contestant.

Discussion: more fundraising ideas By: Club BOB 10/21/2003 07:50:54 GMT
more ideas for general fundraising.

  1. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 04:31:23 GMT
    Chickfila calendar sales have worked well for us. The calendars sell themselves because they only cost $5 and have over $20 of free food coupons. Chickfila gives youth groups a portion of the sales for each calendar your group sells.

    Last season for one team we raised over $500 just from calendars sales.

    This season was have 5 different teams that have sold over 900 calendars so for the most part they have all managed to at least recoup their registration fees.


    1. Message by: Robohawk 2256 10/01/2003 05:22:26 GMT
      Another option is Sweet Tomatoes or Soup Plantations restuarants (other restuarants do this as well) if you have them in your area. You can set up a FLL night for your team and pass out fliers. Anyone who presents a flier as they pay will have 20% of their total bill donated to your organization.

      We raised quite a bit from this last year, despite the fact that there was a power outage to the entire shopping center and people were kept from coming in to the restuarant after 8:15 pm. Those of us inside had a nice dinner under the romantic glow of the emergency lighting.


    2. Message by: Bedford Broncobots 10/11/2003 17:46:42 GMT
      Are there allowed overhanging pieces out of base when you pick up the robot


      1. Message by: Embed Inc RoboSquad 10/11/2003 18:23:09 GMT
        Are there allowed overhanging pieces out of base when you pick up the robot

        This is clearly spelled out in the rules. Please read them.


      2. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 10/12/2003 14:36:59 GMT
        In case you are having trouble finding the rules, see
        http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=11250

        Rule 9 is the rule you need to look at carefully. In the starting position diagram, only case "A" is allowable. The other cases are disallowed starting positions.

        --ken
        Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem


    3. Message by: Club BOB 10/21/2003 07:50:54 GMT
      It would also be helpful for you to look in the right folder of the forums for a topic related to rules since your question doesn't have a thing to do with fundraising. ;-)

      Your question is probably already answered in another section of this forum.


Discussion: team tshirts By: Club BOB 10/21/2003 07:47:27 GMT
using team tshirts to help with fundraising for your team

  1. Message by: Club BOB 10/01/2003 04:41:23 GMT
    Each year we have designed our own tshirts and then sold sponsor ads on the back of the tshirts.

    if a sponsor pays $100 they get their company logo and name
    if they pay $50 they get their company name.

    You can fit quite a few sponsors on the back of each shirt.

    It's a good selling point if you can tell the sponsor that their name will be seen at a competition and mentioned in press releases about your team.

    Most of our sponsors were companies that the parents had connnections with and were happy to support something educational.

    We also put the Chickfila logo on the back of our shirts since their calendar sales helped our team.

    If we had enough funds, we would give the sponsor one of the team tshirts as a thank you. But regardless of if they got a shirt, we always had the team give the sponsors thank you cards.

    Also, we usually did tshirts for the parents and siblings since it's often cheaper to do larger quantities of tshirts with the silk screeners. A good point about having the extra shirts is that it meant on the day of competition others would see family members in the stand wearing our shirts to help them remember our team.

    thanks,

    Susan
    Club BOB


    1. Message by: EagleEngineers2125 10/08/2003 23:45:27 GMT
      I am having an easy time getting parents and sponsors to support our afterschool club; however, I do not have anywhere to put ALL the money! I cannot open a school account myself and the parent who volunteered to open the account is getting no where. The bank will not let her open an account without a Tax ID number and our school is not allowed to let her use ours. How do you get around all this red tape? I am running out of time :-(


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 10/09/2003 00:22:36 GMT
        CASH!

        -Skye


    2. Message by: Wildcats1099 10/11/2003 19:35:03 GMT
      Perhaps your PTA would let you use their bank account and tax ID. You may have to let them claim to "sponsor" the program, but depending on local politics, that may be a good thing! Gives some accountability and oversite, but does add a layer of bureaucracy. If you don't need the tax id in order to acknowledge donations, I would just keep really good records of income and expenses and run it through my own checking account.
      Monica


    3. Message by: Club BOB 10/21/2003 07:47:27 GMT
      ditto to what Syke said, we always used cash and just kept a notebook to keep track of expenses.



Folder: Fundraising for trip to FLL Invitational 02/27/2004 06:46:43 GMT

Use this folder to discuss issues related to teams raising funds for the purpose of attending the FLL Invitational. (For state tournament winners.)

Discussion: How have past (or current) attendees of the FLL Invitational tournament raised funds? By: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/27/2004 07:02:22 GMT
Hello!

My team, Mindstorms Mayhem, now finds ourselves in the happy position of being invited to the FLL Invitational in Atlanta in April, as the NH State Director's Award winner. However, we are now faced with the challenge of raising the funds needed to have our team be able to participate!

This is new ground for our team, and I am looking to leverage off of the lessons learned of anybody who has been in this position before! Have other teams that have gone simply paid their own way? Have teams used a mix of self-support and sponsor support? Has there been financial support from the state tournament partner?

Our team has the goal of raising funds to fully support the team for the trip. This is no small task if we are to take the "least hassle" route of flying from NH to Atlanta, and staying at the accommodations next door to the Georgia Dome. Doing so, however, would require about $850 each for a team of 10 students, 1 student mentor, 2 coaches, and one female chaperone. (14 * $850 = $11,900).

We are exploring other lower-cost options including driving to/from Atlanta, staying with host families, etc. These can help lessen the cost, but some level of fundraising would still be required.

With fundraising, we have lots of ideas of how to pursue corporate sponsorships, community donations, individual donations, etc., but we are running into a couple roadblocks:

* It seems that many corporations will only make donations to approved non-profit organizations. (In order to receive the tax benefit, and also to weed out "fake organizations.) Our team is not a registered non-profit organization. As a homeschooling team, we are not directly under the umbrella of a school district, so we don't have their organization to leverage. Any other suggestions? How have other homeschool teams done this?

* What did your team do to secure corporate sponsorships? What
did you tell them in your "pitch?" How do you recognize their
support? (Again, we have ideas, but given that time is short, and we only get one shot at this, we'd like to leverage your experience!)

We are basically looking for your experiences and suggestions in this matter. We have lots of ideas, but have run into a roadblock with the tax issues, and would also like to hear what has been proven to work!

Thanks!

--ken
Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem

  1. Message by: dragondevils119 02/26/2004 22:02:14 GMT
    When the Dragon Devils were invited to Florida for Arctic Impact, we were able to get a grant of $750 per team member from a local credit union. We made a careful accounting for each girl - paid for their airplane tickets, a pro-rated amount for lodging, and a daily food allowance. We also did a bit of other fundraising - selling cookie dough and a walk-a-thon.

    Last year for Houston City Sights we self-funded, and will do so again this year in Atlanta. The families treat it as a group vacation.

    Most of us are planning to drive from SE Mich to Atlanta; a few will fly. Last year we all flew to Houston and shared rental cars and minivans. But driving this year, we will be able to bring a lot more stuff with us.

    We did not use the hotel package. I think overall that saved money, but we were about 6 miles offsite. This year we made reservations early for the Embassy Suites just across from the GA Dome and convention center.

    Looking forward to meeting you in Atlanta. Your team sounds like a formidable competitor!

    Gary
    Dragon Devil parent


    1. Message by: Mindstorms Mayhem #63 02/27/2004 06:46:43 GMT
      Gary,

      Thanks for letting us know how the Dragon Devils have funded their previous trips to the Invitationals. This is the Dragon Devils' third trip to the Invitational?!? Wow! That's very impressive!

      Our fundraising is still ongoing. We are optimistic of reaching our goal so that we can fly and stay in the Omni Hotel. Even if we don't make our fundraising goal, the kids have received some good press coverage, and have made a lot of connections in the community!

      We are attending a practice tournament this weekend; we'll see how it goes! We have spent almost all of our meeting time in January and February on fundraising activities -- the traditional "FLL" activities have been on hold. The research project and robot are essentially no different now than they were the second week of December! The fundraising has been fun, even if a lot of work, and the students have definitely learned some new skills and had some great experiences.

      I'm hoping to put together some sort of addendum to Skye Sweeney's coaches manual on fundraising for the Invitational -- this effort caught our team by surprise, and we had little to no experience with fundraising prior to a couple of months ago. Even with some excellent advice from other FLL teams such as Team BOB and BTBAF, we've still had to learn some lessons the hard way! Oh well, experience is largely the sum of "hard knocks."

      I'll post results from this Saturday's tournament if the Forum is still open...

      --ken
      Coach, Mindstorms Mayhem



Folder: Marketing And The Robot 10/10/2003 03:30:58 GMT
Hi, we are the Dust Devils at Holmes Middle School in Illinois. We are a group of new comers (none of us have done this before). Could anyone give us tips on making the robot, marketing and researching? Thanks!


Folder: School related questions 10/08/2003 08:05:03 GMT


Discussion: Moving a team to a junior high By: Tekno Devils40 10/08/2003 08:05:03 GMT
HELP!

I have a team that I started at an elementary school. I started
it with 4, 5, and 6 graders. After the first year, two of
the kids left the school to move up to junior high. There was
no team at the new school, so I took them back. Now after our
second year, half the kids are in junior high and half the
kids back at the elementary. My son is now in junior high.

I was planning on coaching the team from the JH. I talked to the
principal today, and he has legalistic issues. Title 9 'stuff'
requires that school related programs be available to all
students. Hosting a fully formed team would violate the code.

My team is already as large as I want it. I do not have an easy
way to start a new team at the JH to 'open it up'. I do not have
a coach nor do I have the money for a new kit.

My options are 1) stay at the elementary school. 2) Try to find
the money to start a second team at the JH. 3) Abbandon the
schools and run the team from my home.

This is very frustrating to me. It is hard enough dealing with
the kids let alone all the political stuff!

I would like to hear other people's experiences in this matter.
I would also be interested in how other teams (like DI) deal
with this problem.

-Skye Sweeney
fll-freak@comcast.net

  1. Message by: Cybernautical Roboteers98 09/14/2003 14:37:55 GMT
    My team also consists of kids that attend different schools in the county. I decided to make it a 4-H competition team.

    Cybernautical Roboteers98


    1. Message by: Irken Invaders 09/15/2003 02:07:18 GMT
      Who initially paid for your Lego equipment and who has paid for this year's mission set up? We are in our second year and had too big of a team last year with 10. I reduced the size and a couple of parents were disappointed that their sons couldn't be on my team. I offered to work with them on setting up a new team but neither would agree to put in the time needed. We are not technically a school team but we do have a teacher from 5th greade who was our guiding light last year, back for another even though the team is mostly 6th graders now.

      As far as Title 9, there are limits to how many kids can be on a team. If 100 sign up, I think the rules state only 10 kids can be on a team. And if no one else will coach it, I would think the coach gets to make the final choicce.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/15/2003 02:20:00 GMT
        ARGH!
        My employer pays for about 50 teams in the area. Initialy
        they were to be one per school. My team was going to move
        up take our kit to the JH. I was then going to start a
        team at the ES to replace me. Well, before I figured out
        that I had no easy home at the JH, I had started the team
        at the ES. Now I have to place to go!

        I will talk with the school district Monday to figure out
        what to do. If push come sto shove, I will run the team
        out of my home.

        -Skye


        1. Message by: Irken Invaders 09/15/2003 12:40:54 GMT
          Hi Skye: I don't envy you and your problem. However, I'm intrigued to hear that your employer is financing each team. Is this simply a donation for the schools or is your employer's business related to robotics, science, etc.? We're trying to find a sponsor for our team in the Richmond, VA area but have had no luck this year. Not much is known about this competition so it's a hard sell. The other thing about cutting back on team members is that there are fewer parents involved including those who might know of a potential sponsor. Anyway, good luck.

          Mark
          Irken Invaders


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/15/2003 13:00:54 GMT
            My employer is a large defence contractor (BAE Systems).
            They are quite obviously into technology. A few key
            people in the company are very big into FIRST and FLL. As
            such FIRST/FLL is the companies largest outreach program.
            Last year they ran not only the FLL state tourney for
            40+ teams, but also a regional FIRST competition. They
            were able to convince several hundred employees to
            volunteer and make both events something to remember.

            My suggestion to you is to build a robot and program it
            to do something fun and make the rounds to various tech
            companies. A working robot sells itself.

            -Skye Sweeney


          2. Message by: 09/20/2003 04:17:36 GMT
            Deleted


    2. Message by: HMS Raiders 427 09/15/2003 19:52:46 GMT
      Hello Skye

      I found myself in a similar position and planned to operate a team out of my home. The Middle School principal found the funds to begin a team so... we decided to split the team into a competition team (those with experience) and a developmental team - unlimited numbers could join but will not go to competition this year. A staff member offered to run this team. I think it will work!

      Sharon


      1. Message by: Bremen Botz! 09/16/2003 05:13:27 GMT
        We have used this model for a couple years now. We have a 'robotics club' that meets and selects the competition team for the tournament.

        This seems to allow more students to participate since coaches are scarce here 'in the back country'.

        Les Turner
        195 - The Bremen Botz!


    3. Message by: phantoms2127 09/16/2003 16:06:30 GMT
      My sons elementary school had the first team in our city. I decided to approach the middle school and get one started there.

      Last year was our first year, we had 8 students sign up (5 that were on the elementary team the prior year. This year we had 37 at the first meeting. I was anticipating forming two teams, which means we still have too many.

      Children who were on a team last year will have an edge in any objective selection criteria. However, I believe what you've been told is true, you would have to open it up to the entire school.

      If you want to guarantee your original team will remain intact, you'll have to form it outside the school.


      1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/16/2003 23:44:41 GMT
        I have learned enough in the last few days to add another chapter to my coaches manual.
        I STRONGLY beleive in fairness, but find some of the regulations are a little nuts.

        I have solved my problem by getting another registration from my employeer (thank
        you BAE Systems). Now I can have my old team and start a new one to boot. In fact I
        am now a 'sheppard' for at least 4 teams and a coach of one.

        -Skye Sweeney


        1. Message by: ilsgreen2170 09/16/2003 23:56:15 GMT
          Skye, I hope there's coaching help for you. My two team, 12:1 team:coach ratio in the same practice session last year was a little hairy at times. If you're willing to go 2 nights per team per week for 4 nights total, extra coaching or parental presence is also great to keep some sanity.

          On the other hand, sometimes FLL coaching is an exercise of love overwhelming sanity.

          - Mark Beitz, coach


          1. Message by: Tekno Devils40 09/17/2003 00:09:26 GMT
            I am only the coach of one team. I am helping the coaches of these other teams as they
            get themselves into the swing of things. I think I will still have some hair left by December!
            Thanks for thinking about me!

            -Skye Sweeney


    4. Message by: ilsgreen2170 09/16/2003 23:50:33 GMT
      For those who have opened up to invite to a elementary school: What is past experience on the percent of eligible students who sign up and show interest?

      A datapoint from the parochial schools in the Appleton, WI area (about 6-9 schools and historically 15-20 teams) is probably about 8-15% of the grade 5-8 eligible student body joins a parochial school FLL team if available.

      Mark Beitz, coach


    5. Message by: Ice Dragons 211 09/17/2003 09:23:40 GMT
      I think that is very unfortunate. The FLL rules state that a team is not to be made up of more than 10 members, but that 7 is ideal. If there are more than 10 then another registration form needs to be completed. Having had a team of 10 one year, and 7 another, I know why they recommend this. I think 10 is too many. YOu end up with kids that do all the work, and some that don't do any. This is an intense program that needs buy-in from all involved. If school leaders and district leaders start telling the teams that they have to open it up to other students, then they should be more involved in recruiting more coaches. That should not be the responsibility of the coach to find more coaches. I think I've rambled enough. I hope that makes sense.


    6. Message by: Foster Foxbots 1782 09/20/2003 04:24:54 GMT
      Hi Skye, Sorry, had to delete the first message. Last year, I had a similar problem. If I hadn't found another solution first, the following was going to be