Quote:
Originally Posted by Michael Hill
I know we're talking semantics, but that's a different question.
I would argue that the reason for the leeway in the bumper material rules is in the case a team isn't able to obtain the exact material specified, not to provide a means of gaining an advantage.
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Oh OK, I see your point. I think of it as minimizing a side effect of the bumpers. While they are meant to protect the robot, they introduce a new flaw in a robot inadvertently. It's like another challenge teams have to overcome.
Also I think the recent surge in defensive play and the need for speed and maneuverability have contributed to this. Some teams have mechanically adjusted for this with either omni or caster wheels, while others have looked to new frame shapes to avoid direct contact or low friction bumpers, especially teams that use tank drives.