[David Brinza]

Originally Posted by KarlSTA

We are wondering if we're gonna have to start "sideways" for our robot becuase it drive with the wider way forward. Here is the rule.

<G18> ROBOT Orientation- ROBOTS must start the MATCH with their long (maximum) dimension in a vertical orientation. After the start of the MATCH, ROBOTS may change their orientation such that the long dimension is either vertical or horizontal. Refer to Rule <R08> and Rule <R17> to determine how this affects the use of STANDARD BUMPERS and FLAGS.

If we could get a FIRST inspector or a mentor to respond to this...that would be EXCELLENT.

Assume the driving base of your robot is just under 38"x28". If your robot is short (say 30" tall), then the long dimension will be 38" length. This must be the vertical direction for your starting configuration, so your robot will need to flip downward to get the wheels on the floor.

I doubt teams will do this, though I've seen teams (HOT?) establish a very long drive base (60") by flipping from the starting configuration into driving configuration.

Given the flag height requirement, I suspect virtually all robots will have a dimension greater than 38" and it will be vertical at the start of the match and (hopefully ) remain that way throughout the match.