Bumper Rules

[redrobot31]

We are trying to use Rubber Pull Handle Draw Latches to attach the bumpers. We intend to attach the part with the latch to the top of the bumpers. It would reach over and attach to a bolt on the robot. Is it legal to attach something to the top of the bumpers?

[homerun33ss]

Is it the top of the bumpers themselves (i.e. the cloth & noodles) or the backing of the bumpers?
Also, could you maybe provide a picture or link to a picture of the exact Latches you are using?

[DonRotolo]

Originally Posted by redrobot31

Is it legal to attach something to the top of the bumpers?

We can offer our opinions here, but OUR opinions are worth the same as those of any random person off the street.

The ONLY official place to get a ruling on legality is the FIRST Q&A system.

That being said, Rubber Pull Handle Draw Latches are not what I'd consider "Rigid", so unless you are using something not made of stretchy rubber, you might have some 'splainin to do at competition.

R21
F. must attach to the FRAME PERIMETER of the ROBOT with a rigid fastening system to form a tight, robust
connection to the main structure/frame

[EricH]

Originally Posted by DonRotolo

That being said, Rubber Pull Handle Draw Latches are not what I'd consider "Rigid", so unless you are using something not made of stretchy rubber, you might have some 'splainin to do at competition.

I'd actually call 'em "Flexible" or "Stretchy" myself.

Also, attaching something to the top of the Bumpers--the pool noodle, backing, and cloth--would risk running afoul of the GDC's rulings that what's on the bumpers has to match the picture. Attaching to the aluminum angle also runs that risk, but would be safer. Attaching to the back of the plywood backing, or to something attached to that, would be best if you could ensure a rigid connection via other methods, and only use the latch to latch..