The 'Auto Problem': Space & Coordination
The field is small. The robots are big. Strategies for running multi-team autonomous routines without crashing.
The “Auto Problem”: Space & Coordination
In DECODE, the “Spike Marks” and starting positions force robots close together. If both teams run a “standard” 2+0 auto, they will crash in the middle of the field.
The Space Crunch
- The Lane: There is only one clear driving lane to the Backboard/Goal if you avoid the truss.
- The Conflict: Both robots want to use that lane at T+5 seconds.
Coordination Strategies (The “Dance”)
- The Delay: Robot A waits 3 seconds before moving. Robot B goes instantly.
- The Split: Robot A aims for the Left Goal. Robot B aims for the Right Goal. (Requires high-accuracy pathing).
- The “Stay at Home”: One robot scores pre-load and parks. The other robot cycles.
Pro Tip: “Dynamic Void Avoidance”
Advanced teams use distance sensors to detect their partner.
if (partnerDistance < 12) { stop(); }
This prevents a catastrophic crash that ruins both autos.
Conclusion
Talk to your partner. Draw the paths on a whiteboard. A 20-point auto that works is better than a 50-point auto that crashes.