Ramp Scoring, At 00:00 or After?

[Bill Moore]

Originally Posted by sanddrag

For Question #1, "at the end of the match" and "after the end of the match" are two very different things. The rule is worded "at." Also, I see no mention of "remaining" on the ramp "after" the match. Perahps these couple words were inadvertantly left out of the language of the rule. Common sense tells me that is the case and a robot that rolls back down will not be scored (going by the "scoring is done after all objects are at rest" type of rule from previous years). But, this does seem like a good Q/A question because it could change the drive system a lot if a robot is scored AT the end of the match versus being scored AFTER the end of the match.

Sanddrag is guiding you properly; questions this technical need to be addressed through the Q&A System. All we can provide are our opinions or historical context, nothing definite for this year.
That said, in 2004, The Hanging Year, referees waited 10 seconds after a match if items were still moving. A number of bots would slowly drift downward after the match, and unfortunately by 10 seconds they would be in contact with the floor. Using this historical reference, a robot who rolled down the incline during the settling period would not be scored.
The settling period is important during some years. In 2003, we had a robot feature (stacking cage) that did not operate until power was removed at the end of the match, when it opened to release the bins. In 2002, many teams had tethers that were released toward the end zone when power was removed. I'm not sure what robot tasks could be performed this year when power is removed, but if one exists, someone will find it and capitalize on it. (Sounds like a good question for a new thread.)