The Robonauts 118 - 2012 Video

[Swampdude]

Originally Posted by Tom Line

I think a lot of the frustration being generated by these particular rules is apparent. Many teams thought of creating systems exactly like these: we did as well. The GDC's vague answers and refusal to clarify forced teams to make their own judgement calls.

We don't have the resources to design a mechanism that will likely (our own opinion) be classified as grappling and ruled illegal.

I wish 118 all the best. I will be extremely frustrated if this system is ruled legal by the GDC, thus conveying an advantage to teams that built something like this.

This issue is completely of the GDC's creation. Until they rule, all we're left with is opinion. If it's ruled legal there will be many very upset teams.

I'm in agreement with you on this. The first thought I had was to hang off that angle but thought the grappling/attachment rule applied. When I think of grappling I think of a hook. Hence we went through all the trouble of resting on the ramp surface. I also understand the risk taking based on the lack of very specific language. But I think it puts the refs in a bad situation where one way or the other they will alienate someone. My opinion as witnessed in our design is that force would need to be applied to 1 surface of the bridge to avoid being seen as attached. Simultaneous applied forces on opposing multiple surfaces in my book is attachment. Will I have to rethink my logic after this ruling?