VEX High Stakes in 14 Minutes! | Game Manual Summary

Summary

Joseph Lipper provides a quick and comprehensive guide to the VEX High Stakes game manual in this video. He covers key rules for building a successful robot, such as size restrictions, motor and battery limits, and robot modifications. He also explains the gameplay rules, including robot expansion, scoring methods, and the importance of following general behavior and sportsmanship guidelines. The video emphasizes essential rules for autonomous play, scoring, and penalties, offering a concise reference to help teams navigate the complexities of the competition.

Takeaways

• 😀 You can only have one robot per team, and it must be student-built with no adult involvement in the construction.
• 😀 Robots must fit inside an 18" x 18" x 18" cube at the start of each match, although they can expand after the match begins.
• 😀 VEX High Stakes is a student-centered competition, and teams must build their robots themselves (no purchased or pre-assembled robots).
• 😀 Robots are subject to inspection at every event to ensure they meet all of the official rules and requirements.
• 😀 The robot can be modified with VEX components (like metal parts, shafts, and spacers) but cannot use non-VEX electronics or pneumatics.
• 😀 Teams can use up to eight large motors, but smaller motors can be substituted for some of them (one large motor can be replaced with two small motors).
• 😀 A robot is allowed one brain, one battery, and various pneumatic components, with specific limits on the number of air tanks and cylinders.
• 😀 During the match, robots can expand horizontally (up to 6 inches) and vertically (up to 32 inches) once the match begins.
• 😀 During the autonomous period, robots can score points based on pre-programmed actions, but drivers cannot control the robot until the driver-controlled period begins.
• 😀 Robots must not throw game pieces out of the field, and if they do, they could face disqualification or penalties.
• 😀 A critical rule during the last 15 seconds of the match is that robots cannot touch scored rings or goals in the positive corners, or they risk disqualification.
• 😀 Teams are responsible for building their own robots, and documenting the engineering process can help them earn additional recognition and awards during events.

Q & A

What is the most important rule to remember when building your robot for VEX High Stakes?

The most important rule is that your robot must fit within an 18-inch cube at the start of the match (R4). This is crucial for passing inspection and ensuring your robot is legal for competition.

Can I use parts other than VEX components to build my robot?

No, you can only use VEX parts for the robot's structure. You can't use random items like chainsaws or non-VEX materials (R7). However, you can use commercially available parts that are similar to VEX parts (R21).

How many motors are allowed on the robot, and can I use different types of motors?

You can use up to eight motors on your robot (R12), but you can swap one large motor for two smaller motors if needed (R13). This flexibility allows for more design options.

What happens during the autonomous period in a match?

During the first 15 seconds of the match, your robot must operate autonomously, meaning it should move and score points on its own. You can score points by placing rings on stakes and having your robot perform specific tasks (SG5).

Are there any restrictions on how much a robot can expand during a match?

Yes, your robot can expand horizontally up to 6 inches or vertically up to 32 inches once the match starts (SG2, SG3). However, be mindful of the field space and the strategies used by other teams.

Can my robot hold multiple rings or mobile goals at the same time?

No, your robot can only hold two rings and one mobile goal at a time (SG6). You cannot hold multiple mobile goals or more than two rings simultaneously.

What is the penalty for throwing a ring or mobile goal out of the field?

If you throw a ring or mobile goal out of bounds, it could result in a disqualification (SG4). It's important to keep all game elements inside the field to avoid penalties.

What are the consequences of violating the rules intentionally?

Intentionally breaking the rules, such as forcing an opponent into a penalty, can result in serious penalties, including disqualification from the event (G15, G16). Always play fair and follow the competition guidelines.

What is the role of the referee in VEX High Stakes competitions?

The referee is responsible for ensuring that all teams follow the rules. In case of close calls or disputes, the head referee has the final decision on how to handle the situation. Referees also decide on penalties for rule violations (G14).

How can I improve my team's ranking during the competition?

Your ranking at the event depends on your win points, which are awarded based on your performance in the autonomous period and driver-controlled period. Scoring at least three rings across two stakes in the autonomous period is necessary for the win point (SC8).