[Daniel_LaFleur]

Originally Posted by mrnoble

We have decided that more wheels does actually equal enough of an advantage that we are planning to stack our wheels three wide. Question- in order to ensure that each wheel is continually in contact with the regolith, we are considering turning them on the lathe together and using a levelling stick to sand them even with each other, then buffing them to a surface texture equal to that with which they came in the KOP.

The question is, is this legal? While we appreciate your concern about coefficient of friction and all that, please don't worry about giving us advice on the number of wheels. We simply want to know if we can resurface them without attempting to add traction to the surface of the wheel.

Thanks!

Originally Posted by <R06>

<R06>
ROBOTs must use ROVER WHEELS (as supplied in the 2009 Kit Of Parts and/or their equivalent as provided by the supplying vendor) to provide traction between the ROBOT and the ARENA. Any number of ROVER WHEELS may be used. The ROVER WHEELS must be used in a “normal” orientation (i.e. with the tread of the wheel in contact with the ground, with the axis of rotation parallel to the ground and penetrating the wheel hub). No other forms of traction devices (wheels, tracks, legs, or other devices intended to provide traction) are permitted. The surface tread of the ROVER WHEELS may not be modified except through normal wear-and-tear. Specifically, the addition of cleats, studs, carved treads, alterations to the wheel profile, high-traction surface treatments, adhesive coatings, abrasive materials, and/or other attachments are prohibited. The intent of this rule is that the ROVER WHEELS be used in as close to their “out of the box” condition as possible, to provide the intended low-friction dynamic performance during the game

As per the above bolded section, what you propose would not be allowed.