<R31> Regarding Split numbered bumpers

[Qbot2640]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Last year there was no wiggle in the interpretation, they could not be split. This year there is a easy interpretation of the rule and split numbers are legal.
Al

I apologize for not being completely clear - the "last year issue" I refer to had nothing to do with split team numbers. The "Lead Inspector" in our situation did not make an immediate decision, attempting to see if consensus would develop, when it did not, he supported the decision of the original inspector. It was our team's distinct impression, however, that he would not have found issue with the situation otherwise.

I am only trying to make the point that there are some times when an interpretation of rules goes a direction you do not expect or possibly agree with. It has seemed to me (and to many others I have spoken with) that inspectors often get a bit zealous with bumper rules. Given how easy it is to fit the numbers neatly on the right or left corner bumper (as demonstrated by the nice 1523 photo above), I would not push my luck on this one. It is much easier to come up with an attractive compromise in the team's robot shop with time and tools and materials, than in an 8X8 pit with the pressure of competition looming and a travel-size subset of team's resources.