Re: Rule clarification - trailer recessed
 

It probably wouldn't work even if "outer ege" were to include the inside of a U-shaped robot. Consider this: the last part of R11: The Bumper perimiter may extend up to but cannot exceed the maximum robot volume constraints defined in Rule R11. From what this says, if the inside edges of a U-shaped bot have to have bumpers too, most likely the perimeter wouldn't sufficiently cover them.

Re: Rule clarification - trailer recessed
 

I don't understand what this means, but it gave me another thought. The trailer hitch, if it protrudes from a flat section of the rear of the robot frame as shown in figure 8.5 of the rules, redefines the BUMPER PERIMETER. That has some very disturbing consequences for the design and placement of your bumpers. (In fact, the bumpers as shown in Figure 8.5 are not legal; the corners of the trailer hitch that would define the perimeter are not protected by bumpers.) I am certainly hoping that the trailer hitch is excluded from the BUMPER PERIMETER.

Re: Rule clarification - trailer recessed
 

If the trailer hitch was included in the bumper perimeter, then the hitch would need to be recessed.

Re: Rule clarification - trailer recessed
 

My team had the same idea, so thanks for the rule clarification.
Although I had said even without a rule defining this, it seems to be a little (LOT) bit like lawering the rules... For no other reason, I would avoid against this since it isn't exactly in the spirit of FIRST... imho.

Re: Rule clarification - trailer recessed
 

Indeed the Trailer Hitch <R18>, <R08> and <R11> rules do not seem to be in complete agreement.
This will need to be addressed to the GDC. Specifically, I would like to know if the Trailer Hitch will be included in the <R11> maximum dimensions or if it will be excluded.
Once we determine who will be our "Rules Master", we will ask this specific question.