[EricH]

Originally Posted by Radical Pi

Suppose there have been 2 balls scored. 1 of them has passed through the chute switcher and is on its way down the main ramp. The 2nd ball is on the ball return chute. A 469 (or any similar bot) driver sees the defender speeding to block the active chute, and, while the 1st ball is still on the chute, switches to the 2nd chute. For the period of the chute switching directions, does that turn their return system into an active mechanism?

While the chute switcher is moving, it is an active mechanism, at least if I understand the Q&A's on the topic correctly. As soon as it stops, it is a passive mechanism.

Originally Posted by Radical Pi

If that were true, what if a bot drove up on the bump and put themselves up against the 469 ball return. Since they are on the bump it is legal to touch out of the bumper zone. If a ball were to be caught on said chute, would an attempt to bypass the block be considered an active mechanism above the bumper zone manipulating the balls?

That would depend on the method of bypassing the block. Again, if the switcher is moving, it would be. However, you do risk a <G38> (intentional outside the bumper zone), depending on how the ref calls it, or a <G13> (can't make your opponents get a penalty). It's a risky move, and only effective on one side.