[Al Skierkiewicz]

Dimensions do not include the bumpers which you will bring to the inspection detached from your robot for weigh in and inspection.
The fabric must be the same or a very close equivalent, as shown in the manual, in fact the construction of the bumpers should be the same as shown in the manual.
Dimensions of 1/4" less than maximum on all 6 sides is a good start. Included in the test will be any attachment points for the bumpers and any folding attachments that can't hold themselves inside the sizing box. You will be required to place your robot in a three sided box with a feeler guage that will pass down the fourth side. If the feeler contacts anything on your robot it doesn't pass the size inspection. Often teams will have hardware or tie wraps that exceed the dimensions in this test. Those teams will be required to remove or modify the offending parts. Inspectors will work with you on fixing dimensional problems and are trained to recognize frame damage that normally occurs during competition. We are really good guys and we are fair to all but we aren't pushovers. Before the first regional, FIRST will publish an inspection sheet so you can check the robot yourselves for compliance and will publish revisions throughout the season. Keep checking.