Bumper Rule 4.1.6 Backing question

[GaryVoshol]

[R27] Robots are required to use Bumpers to protect all exterior vertices of the Frame Perimeter. For adequate protection, at least 8 in. of Bumper must be placed on each side of each exterior vertex (see Figure 4-1, Figure 4-2, and Figure 4-3).

8 inches on each side of the vertex. That means the Bumper must cover 8 inches of frame. Extra Bumper material (pool noodles and fabric) beyond the corner isn't part of that 8 inches.

I'm not the GDC nor an inspector, but that's how I interpret it.

[Richard Wallace]

Originally Posted by GaryVoshol

I'm not the GDC nor an inspector, but that's how I interpret it.

Gary IS an experienced FIRST volunteer, often in key roles such as Head Ref.

Also, his interpretation is the one that was given by the GDC when very similar questions were asked about this in 2006, when teams were equally interested in maximizing the opening available for floor-loading of balls.

Of course this is not 2006. For an official answer, see the Official Q&A.