[robocup-small] Comments&suggestion for SSL

[Steffen Prüter]

Hello,

we want to add our comments to the discussion about the future of SSL.

1) Walls: we think, it is good that we do not have walls of 90 or 45 degree (even walls with of soft material). That is near to reality and an interesting handicap for every team. By the way, if we had such walls, we would not have the nice kick-offs.
But, the idea of slight slope walls proposed by the FU Fighters is good.

2) Speed: We think, there is a physical limit for the speed (weight of batteries and motors, drift, etc.). So, a rule is not necessary.

3) Shot-Power: There is also a physical limit, so no extra rule is required.

4) Energy: To force more team play and intelligent tactics it is a good idea to have an energy budget (shot and move) for every robot. A vision referee is a possible solution but the problem is that all teams need this referee module. So it is a complex task to make such a vision referee.

5) Kick-Off: We think, to decrease the kick-off count, it must be a disadvantage when the ball leaves the field. We propose three approaches:
     - To give the throw in robot more ability to kick, the distance between the robots and the ball should be increased. Also only 2 or 3 opponent robots should be allowed at the 400mm radius around the throw in position. So there is more room for tactics.
     - First, the defending robots should position themselves and stop then, after this, the attacker (throw in) can position his robots. So the throw in is an advantage.
     - Also, we think chip-kickers should be allowed for kick-off (but not for a direct goal shot)

6) Robots recharge: We think, within the game and between half-times, recharges should not be allowed. Additionally, every team should change maximum 1 robot per game.


The SSL needs some new impulses to stay an innovative research topic. One idea is the combination of MSL and SSL. But we think, the SSL should be an entry league, which is not much expensive as the other league. Maybe, the MSL should leave the buildings and should be an outdoor league. But the local vision in the SSL is a very interesting approach for the future. We think, this should be a goal for 2007/08. In 2006, competitions would be a good idea.

Regards
CoolRUNers

University Rostock