[EricH]

Originally Posted by troy_dietz

Not just metal, anything that could be considered attaching.
G12: The following actions are prohibited with regards to interaction with ARENA elements... C. Attaching to (including the use of hook-and-loop tape against the FIELD carpet)

71's '02 robot--and the many others that used metal that year, including 330--are the reason for that rule. Now, the tread-covered floor-pushing plates would probably be just fine. Many teams used those, too.

If '02 was played again, the primary concern I'd have would be damage to the floor under the carpet. I've seen robots go right through the carpet with just their drivetrain. Now imagine a pushing war every single match... Some slight rules changes (say, using Lunacy wheels as the drive system ) might be necessary.