[Billfred]

Originally Posted by 340x4xLife

I think it would be a cool challenge to have to design your robot in such a way that you will not damage field components.

Then, by that logic, every FRC game since at least 2004 has been cool.

2004:

Originally Posted by Section 5

<R13> Robot wheels, tracks, and other parts intended to provide traction on the playing field (“traction devices”) may be purchased or fabricated. In no case, will traction devices that damage the carpet or other playing surfaces be permitted. Traction devices may not have surface features such as metal, sandpaper, or hard plastic studs, cleats, or other attachments. Anchors, i.e. devices that are deployed/used to keep one’s robot in one place and prevent if from being moved by another robot, cannot use metal in contact with the carpet or other playing surfaces to “stay put.” Gaining traction by using adhesives or Velcro-like fastener material is not allowed.

2005:

Originally Posted by Section 4

<S09> A referee may disable a ROBOT that has damaged the playing field, carpet, barriers or another ROBOT if the referee feels that further damage is likely to occur. The referees may require a corrective action, such as eliminating a sharp edge, before the ROBOT will be allowed to compete in subsequent matches. Repeat offenses will result in that team being disqualified from further participation in the competition event.

2006:

Originally Posted by Section 5

<R32> Robot wheels, tracks, and other parts intended to provide traction on the playing field may be purchased or fabricated (“traction devices” include all parts of the robot that are designed to transmit any propulsive and/or braking forces between the robot and the playing field). In no case will traction devices that damage the carpet or other playing surfaces be permitted. Traction devices may not have surface features such as metal, sandpaper, hard plastic studs, cleats, or other attachments. Anchors, i.e. devices that are deployed/used to keep one’s robot in one place and prevent if from being moved by another robot, cannot use metal in contact with the carpet or other playing surfaces to “stay put.” Gaining traction by using adhesives or Velcro- like fastener material is not allowed.