Smaller Robot Perimeter

[ScottOliveira]

Originally Posted by inkspell4

Looked there couldn't find anything mentioning the bumpers in relation to the cylindrical limitations.

You're right, it is never called out specifically. However, it does say that

A ROBOT’S horizontal dimensions may never exceed a 54 in. diameter vertical cylinder.

And in the glossary, ROBOT is defined by (emphasis mine):

ROBOT: an electromechanical assembly built by an FRC Team to perform specific tasks when competing
in ULTIMATE ASCENT. It includes all of the basic systems required to be an active participant in the game: power,
communications, control, mobility, and actuation. ...

So are bumpers a part of the robot required to be an active participant?

On one hand yes, as you are required to have them to compete.
On the other hand no, as bumpers are defined in the glossary as

BUMPER: a protective assembly designed to attach to the exterior of the ROBOT...

and thus something that attaches to the robot as opposed to being an actual part of the robot.

Unless I am missing something in the rules?

Clarification on this would be useful by Q&A if there isn't anything else providing guidance.

Personally, I believe the intent is that the Bumpers are to be included for purposes of measuring the 54 in. cylinder