Rule R-16 question
 

In rule R-16 of chapter 8(the robot), it states

"Once the MATCH has started, the ROBOT may assume a PLAYING CONFIGURATION thatexceeds the size dimensions specified in Rule <R11>. While in the PLAYING CONFIGURATION, the ROBOT may expand up to a maximum horizontal dimension of 80 inches (e.g. all parts of the ROBOT must fit within an imaginary 80-inch-diameter upright cylinder). There are no height limits for a ROBOT in its PLAYING CONFIGURATION at any time after the start of the MATCH".

the question our team has is does the 80" requirement include the ball if it is in posession of our robot.

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

It does not include the ball, because the ball isn't part of the robot.

If you're reaching around the ball to possess it, you'll need to take into account the size of your mechanism, though.

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

alright thank you, we just werent sure because in previous competitions the ball was included because supposedly anything in contact of the robot was part of the robot

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

Until this gets addressed in FIRST Q&A, I wouldn't assume the ball is or is not considered part of the robot. I haven't found a rule that explicitly states that to be the case.

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

If the ball were part of the robot, it would violate about a dozen of the robot rules...the only way that it could be considered part of the robot would be if a rule explicitly said so, and excepted it from things like size, starting position, detachment, BOM, etc.. Since there's no such rule, I think he's safe here.

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

Agreed, like in Aim High the balls weren't considered part of the ROBOT. The entire ROBOT must fit into that box, nothing with the ball. In fact, I'd be hard pressed to find a season where a game piece in contact with the robot was considered "part" of the ROBOT

Re: Rule R-16 question
 

i am not completely sure, but i believe that the ball is not included in those specific demensions