[Timz3082]

In previous years, minor protrusions were exempted from the frame perimeter only in the BUMPER ZONE as noted here:
"FRAME PERIMETER – the polygon defined by the outer-most set of exterior vertices on the HOSTBOT (without the BUMPERS attached) that are within the BUMPER ZONE." Bolts and screws and other similar items are not counted--this is to facilitate tight bumper-frame connections.

This year, it would appear that they have eased up as the rule in this years manual now read:
[R01-2]

The Robot must have a Frame Perimeter that is comprised of fixed, non-articulated structural elements of the Robot. The Frame Perimeter of a Robot is defined by the outer-most set of exterior vertices on the Robot that are within the Bumper Zone, which is between 2 and 10 in. from the floor. Minor protrusions no greater than ¼ in. such as bolt heads, fastener ends, and rivets are not considered part of the Frame Perimeter.


To determine the Frame Perimeter, wrap a piece of string around the Robot at the level described in [R02]. The string describes this polygon.

Note: to permit a simplified definition of the Frame Perimeter and encourage a tight, robust connection between the Bumpers and the Frame Perimeter, minor protrusions such as bolt heads, fastener ends, rivets, etc are excluded from the determination of the Frame Perimeter.

Does this mean the protrusions can be out of the bumper zone? Correct me if I am wrong, but it looks like it is this way. It also makes things easier for those rookies out there!