Bumper Rule [33]

[FrankJ]

The 1/17 update modified R33

R33 Bumpers must be supported by the structure/frame of the Robot (i.e. each end of the Bumper must be rigidly attached to the Frame Perimeter, the gap between the backing material and the frame must not be greater than ¼ in. and no section of Bumper greater than 8 in. may be unsupported). See Figure 4‑7.

The bit about the bumper attachment at the bumper ends is new for this year. Formerly they just needed rigid attachment. Does anybody how close to the end the attachment needs to be? Sounds silly when I write it I know.

[nitneylion452]

I would recommend submitting this to the Q&A. There's not enough information in the manual to give sound advice. An easy thing to say would be there is no buffer zone. The absolute end must be attached. But the GDC may allow for some leniency in that regard. I would ask the Q&A.

[dellagd]

Wait, so does that mean that a 38 inch bumper must have ... 1..2..3..4..5..no too much...4 ... 4 supports along the length of it attaching it to the frame?

Surely not?

[FrankJ]

No it says you must have at least 2 attachments per bumper. (Per Q&A) The rest of the rule deals with support behind the bumper.

Or maybe no attachment is required for 1 piece (endless) bumper. :0

The one QA response was typical GDC just restating the rule.