bumpers problem...
 

We Accidentilly used plastic bands to hold the pool noodels inside the bumper covering.
Does anybody know whether its legal to do it or is it better for us to play it safe with sellotape?
our problem is mainly if the plastic band considered a "hard part"

Re: bumpers problem...
 

It is tough to answer this without actually seeing your implementation, so let me ask a few questions of you:

You say you're using "plastic bands"; do you mean something like a Zip-tie? If so, I would guess that this is acceptable.

If, however, your "plastic bands" were more along the lines of a short section of PVC Pipe (i.e., something really hard), you might want to rethink this.

In either case, my understanding of the term "hard part" refers to plywood, metal angle, etc. Good luck with the judges interpretation!

Re: bumpers problem...
 

Gil,
The fabric should hold the noodles just fine if you make it tight when you secure the fabric to the backing. Are you able to cut the banding and remove it without taking the bumpers apart?

Re: bumpers problem...
 

its very complicated to take the zip-tie off the bumper without disassembling the bumper.
my question now is shortly - does yhe judges will make me problems because of the zip-tie or should I leave it as it is??

Re: bumpers problem...
 

Gil,
Please check with the Lead Robot Inspector at your regional. They will check the bumper and give you guidance. I cannot give you a good answer without seeing the bumper. In most cases, it is better to remove the tie. That will give you the best performance in reducing robot damage.

Re: bumpers problem...
 

we have always used zip-ties.
as long as the "zip" part, that little plastic box is not protruding anywhere outside the bumper it *should* in theory be fine.

we like to keep the little head parts of the zip ties either behind the wood backing or at least behind a pool noodle.

I would still check with someone who knows more than I do...