What must teams maintain in addition to the robot itself during a rebuild?

Maintaining an accurate and detailed build log documenting all changes made during a rebuild is crucial for several reasons. First, a build log serves as a comprehensive record of the design process, allowing teams to track their modifications, understand the rationale behind changes, and identify which components were effective or required adjustments.

This documentation can also be invaluable in troubleshooting issues, as it provides insights into the evolution of the robot and helps pinpoint when and where problems may have originated. Additionally, having a thorough build log can facilitate knowledge transfer among team members, especially as different individuals may participate in various stages of the project.

This thorough documentation aligns with the first guideline of the rules, encouraging teams to reflect on their engineering practices and ensure transparency in their build process. The importance of keeping a build log cannot be overstated, as it is not just a requirement but a best practice that contributes to the learning experience in robotics competition.