Modifying TETRIX parts

[lastrideelhs]

does anyone know if we are allowed to modify TETRIX parts like bend them or cut them down to size for the minibot?

[dtengineering]

With the exception of the motors, batteries and electronic bits I haven't seen any rules to the contrary (so go for it). Modifying (sometimes heavily modifying) structural and mechanical components is a bit part of FTC and VEX style competitions. Indeed in FRC you can go even further than in VEX or FTC as there is no restriction against welding the Tetrix parts together. (Check alloy composition and tempering before breaking out the TIG, or at least try a few tests on disposable bits, though.)

Jason

[lastrideelhs]

thank you

[blackrocks0]

I would ask/check on the FRC Q&A before you do it.

[David Brinza]

Since FTC teams can contribute MINIBOTS to the competition, it's quite likely FTC robot rules are applicable to the minibot.

The FTC 2010 Game Manual allows TETRIX/LEGO parts to be cut, sanded, filed, bent, drilled, milled, etc. per <R11-a>. However, welding or soldering is not permitted per <R11-d>.

I would definitely wait for a Q&A ruling before welding TETRIX parts.

[EricH]

Originally Posted by David Brinza

I would definitely wait for a Q&A ruling before welding TETRIX parts.

Well, the Q&A did say that welding was acceptable on the Minibot...

But neither the OP nor the GDC specified welding Tetrix parts.

http://forums.usfirst.org/showthread.php?t=16288

[GaryVoshol]

Originally Posted by David Brinza

... it's quite likely FTC robot rules are applicable to the minibot.

I wouldn't make that assumption. If it's not in the FRC manual, it's not part of the FRC game.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

The minibot is effectively part of the ROBOT, but the minibot rules are also exceptions to main robot rules. Therefore, although Tetrix parts are on the allowed list, the main body of the rule book does not make them untouchable. You can use Tetrix parts on the fullup robot and you may modify any of them under certain conditions. For example you may only modify motors for mounting holes and output shaft. <R93> Motors may not be modified with exceptions of those in Rule <R47>.
<R47> Motors and servos used on the ROBOT shall not be modified in any way, except as follows:
A. The mounting brackets and/or output shaft/interface of the motors may be modified to facilitate the physical connection of the motor to the ROBOT and actuated part.
B. The electrical input leads on the motors may be trimmed to length as necessary.
C. The locking pins on the window motors may be removed.