Race for Throughput

Optimize for complete feature set (scoring, pattern, parking), or focus on one particular aspect and hyper-optimize?

A win gives 3 RP , and completing even one additional field feature adds 1 more RP . That total of 4 RP is better than the 2 RP available in a loss. Pattern sorting takes time, which reduces scoring throughput. A full double-parking lift also adds weight and consumes match time. Since scoring is the required base layer anyway, we concluded that Decode is a race for throughput.

Compromising ranking points for game points turns out to actually not be a compromise. Watching top teams’ performance as well as final RP thresholds announced for FIRST Championship confirmed our choice for strategy. Strategy Fork Optimize for complete feature set (scoring, pattern, parking), or focus on one particular aspect and hyper-optimize? This strategy decision drove our robot design and iteration process.