Can we use duck tape?
 

I've been reading through the manual, and I can't find anything against using any adhesives. So does this mean that they will allow duck tape this year? Or has someone found a clause that states that we can't use duct tape?

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

I have not seen any rules on tape this year.
However, someone will probably ask on Q&A pretty soon and we will know for sure.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Nowhere does it say that the Q&A can make new rules. So they'd better clarify that issue, before they use it to make a tape rule for 2009.

Given that teams don't read the Q&A nearly as often as they ought to, and the fact that it doesn't highlight important statements (in the way that an update does), it would be a bad idea to expect all teams to comply with the things that are said there. Every year, many teams miss (or occasionally, deliberately ignore) Q&A clarifications of existing rules.

As a matter of fact, FIRST has neglected to publicly state the order of precedence for rules, updates, Q&As, etc. for the last couple of years. Especially with sources of information like the Director's Blog, it's time that they put something in writing for the teams.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

You make a very good point with this. I know it sounds contradictory, but could you ask this in the Q&A? You might get an answer.


Also, in past years I've seen questions in the Q&A bring up important issues, and the resulting answers/clarifications/rules changes show up in subsequent Team Updates, so important updates do get highlighted.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Duct Tape Bandits would be happy if it stayed this way... I would LOVE to see the first ever robot made nearly entirely out of duct tape, controls & wheels! lol

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Sorry to dissapoint you but I can tell you already that the wheels, no duct tape, only the rover wheels, :rolleyes: but that would add sweet traction. And remember this isn't red green this is FIRST!

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

I think what Kim meant was a robot made out of the mandatory wheels, controls, and the rest duct tape.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Yeah I guess rereading it, that does make sense, hehe whoops

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Please ask what the order of precedence is in Q&A.

FLL is years ahead of FRC in that they have a defined order of precedence. FRC needs to get their act together on this.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

The way i think of it is like the three branches of the America government (sorry non Yankees) Q&A being the Judicial Branch, Updates being Legislative, and Referees being Executive. If you don't understand this,consult wikipedia or your 8th grade history textbook

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

there is a statement that says you cant use ducktape which was that you wernt allowed to use adhesives.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Find it this year and quote the rule.

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

He's gonna be searching for a reallllly long time ;)

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

Which is why I sent him to the manual. He may as well become a rules expert too.:D

Re: Can we use duck tape?
 

You just might succeed in your genius plan to make everyone read the manual.

(What a happy place FIRST would be if everyone could just complete that simple task.)