[Mike Betts]

Originally Posted by D.Allred

Mike,
I do not understand why the robot needs to be in NORMAL configuration as we put the robot on the field with power off. Please provide the rule reference. Rule G10 or the definition of NORMAL CONFIGURATION does seem to support your statement. In my opinion, stored energy that is physically held in place with pins creates a greater hazard than it avoids.

OK. I'm not batting a thousand with the GDC this year but this is my thinking...

G30 states that:

<G30> ROBOT Volume – During a MATCH, no part of the ROBOT shall extend outside the vertical projection of the FRAME PERIMETER, except as follows:
a. BALL Interaction Volume – Solely for the purposes of interacting with a BALL, MECHANISMS that are below the BUMPER ZONE may extend up to the BUMPER PERIMETER, for a period not exceeding two seconds. After returning inside the FRAMER PERIMETER, such MECHANISMS are not permitted to re-extend beyond the FRAME PERIMETER for at least two seconds.

Now, since your robot can not start actually touching a ball at the start of the match (at least I don't think so), your robot would start the match in violation of <G30> and so be subject to a yellow card and penalty.

Now, if that's OK with your team, then you are correct. You do not have to start with the kicker retracted.

However, like I said, my batting average with the GDC is not too good.

Maybe you should ask if that is, in fact, your strategy...

Regards,

Mike