2013 FRC Workshops - Hosted by Team 2337

To help Teams develop a game strategy that is adapted for their specific abilities and needs, the EngiNERDs are hosting an interactive, hands-on workshop the day after FIRST Kickoff. Veteran and Rookie Teams are invited to attend, and will gain valuable knowledge about strategy, and have the opportunity to build their Kit of Part (KoP) Chassis. A new Team Organization workshop will help teams get prepared for the season and run smoothly.


When:
Sunday, January 6, 2013
10:00am to 1:00pm - "Strategy Dictates Design" Seminar
1:00pm to 2:00pm - Lunch Break
2:00pm to 5:00pm - Kit of Parts Chassis Hands-On Workshop
2:30pm to 5:00pm - Team Organization Workshop

Where:
Kettering University's International Room 
Campus Center, 5th Floor - MAP

"Strategy Dictates Design" Workshop

Each year, Team 2337 uses strategy to dictate the design of their robot. Rather than letting design constraints limit the functionality of the machine, the EngiNERDs determine individual game strategies, and arrange them by priority. The Team takes into consideration time restrictions, available resources, and manpower when determining in which order the items fall. Coming up with these strategies can be difficult, but with some dedication and a realistic point of view, the challenge turns from daunting to inspiring.

Throughout the build-season, the EngiNERDs refer to the categorized game strategies when making decisions regarding the design and construction of the robot. Continually consulting and reviewing these priorities is a key to success for Team 2337, and assists in keeping the Students and Mentors on track. 

"Kit Of Parts Chassis Hands-On" Workshop
During the "Kit of Parts Chassis Hands-On" workshop, Teams will be instructed on how to assemble their own KoP chassis, wire the KoP electrical components, and install LabVIEW on their operator interface.

Teams should come prepared to be divided into three groups: mechanical, electrical and programming, which will work simultaneously to create a working, moving, fully-functional basic chassis.

Teams must supply their own 2013 Kit of Parts, and bring a few simple tools (which are listed in the workshop documents section). The EngiNERDs will supply each Team with an FRC Robot-sized electrical components board, which attendees may take home.

The goal is for each Team to leave the workshop with a functional chassis, which can then be customized and expanded to meet their strategy-dictated design. 

"Team Organization" Workshop

From scouting and agendas to parent involvement and meals, every Team needs some level of organization to ensure that it runs smoothly. 

Giving students responsibilities and holding them accountable for their actions through planned and executed schedules can be beneficial for Teams both large and small.

In the "Team Organization" workshop, students and mentors will be equipped with knowledge and documentation to create a plan that will assist in establishing a framework for a clearly formatted and manageable season. 

Want to attend the Workshops?

The EngiNERDs' workshops are open to the Students, Coaches, and Mentors of any Teams who wish to participate. There is no charge to attend our workshops. Pre-order lunch will be available at a later date.

To ensure that everyone in attendance has the materials required for a successful workshop, it is required that all teams RSVP by Friday, December 28th. 

Online Pre-Order Lunch 

As an option to Teams, we will be offering an online pre-order lunch. Concessions will NOT be available the day of the event. Orders will be accepted until Friday, January 4th, 2013, at 5:00pm.

Payments will be accepted in the form of cash, school-issued check or credit card (via Square, and a 2.5% fee will be added) on the day of the event.

Quotes From Last Year's Attendees

"I really enjoyed the Strategy   Dictates Design. It has made a   huge difference in our Team's  approach to design."   
Linda Smith - Team 68
“It was enjoyable and educational and overcame some of my fears with competing in FIRST this year." 
Joe Lemieux - Team 4405
“We would be willing to attend this type of meeting on an annual basis. The opportunity to speak with veteran FRC People was priceless.”
Greg Shaw - Team 3601
"Everything was well organized, efficient and extremely helpful... We walked out with a completed chassis" 
Vanna Dedonna - Team 2591