[smurfgirl]

Originally Posted by Mitch1525

Our team is thinking about using a net or net type material to hold the balls. We know that the robot cannot extend outside the 28 X 38 X 60, but what if it can be pulled to extend out of those dimension? Since netting is usually stretchy, to some extent at least, would that pose a problem or should it be ok?

There are two ways I can see this happening.

1) Entanglement with another bot, which then pulls you outside of your bumper perimeter.

As another robot would be causing you to break a rule, you wouldn't be penalized for expanding too far (<G18>). However, your robot would be an entanglement hazard- you might not get penalized (DQed) for a one-time problem, but it would be wise to build your robot so that it does not pose an obvious risk of entanglement (<G33>).

<G18>
Causing PENALTIES – The actions of a ROBOT shall not cause an opposing ROBOT to break a rule and thus incur penalties. Any rule violations committed by the affected ROBOT shall be excused, and no penalties will be assigned.

<G33>
ROBOT Entanglement – Entangled ROBOTS will be disabled if attempts to disengage are causing damage or a dangerous situation. If it is determined that a ROBOT intentionally entangles an opposing ROBOT, the offending ROBOT will be disqualified. If, due to loose cables, hoses, cords, etc., a ROBOT unintentionally but routinely entangles another ROBOT as a result of normal game interaction, the ROBOT may be disqualified. The TEAM will be required to repair the entangling elements before the ROBOT will be permitted to participate in subsequent MATCHES.

2) You overfill your netting with game pieces, and expand outside your bumper perimeter.

This would earn you a penalty, because you have violated the robot rules (<R16>, <G16>).

<R16> Once the MATCH has started, the ROBOT may assume a PLAYING CONFIGURATION that
is different from the STARTING CONFIGURATION. The ROBOT must be designed such
that the PLAYING CONFIGURATION of the ROBOT shall not exceed the dimensions
specified in Rule <R11>. When in the PLAYING CONFIGURATION, no part of the ROBOT
may extend outside the vertical projection of the BUMPER PERIMETER.

<G16>
ROBOT Size - Each ROBOT shall not exceed the maximum weight or volume specified in Rule <R11>. The Head Referee may call for an inspector's recertification of the ROBOT size and weight prior to the start of any MATCH. ROBOTS determined to be in violation prior to the start of a MATCH will be prohibited from participating in the MATCH. Any ROBOT determined to be in violation during a MATCH will assigned a PENALTY and will receive a YELLOW CARD (see Rule <S04>).

Edit: I see that while I was typing and searching down manual quotes, you clarified a bit. When you get measured, they are going to stick your robot in a box which represents the maximum robot size. If you fit in the box, you're good to go. They won't pull out the netting, but if it does expand beyond the bumper perimeter enough for the refs to notice during the course of a match, then see the two circumstances I posted above.