Use of Traction Tape?

[brandy836]

I know that the rules (more specifically R33) say that the use of traction tape is prohibited, but some of the mentors on our team feel that there may be an exception to it.

So- is the use of friction tape allowed?

Thanks.

[Conor Ryan]

Originally Posted by brandy836

I know that the rules (more specifically R33) say that the use of traction tape is prohibited, but some of the mentors on our team feel that there may be an exception to it.

So- is the use of friction tape allowed?

Thanks.

we ran into a similar situation with out teflon tape last year. The tape alone, was deemed illegal at numerous events. As a solution what we did was staple the tape on, so we weren't using the adhesive, just the material. You may want to look into something like that, the tape by itself probably is illegal.

[Bill Moore]

Originally Posted by brandy836

I know that the rules (more specifically R33) say that the use of traction tape is prohibited, but some of the mentors on our team feel that there may be an exception to it.

So- is the use of friction tape allowed?

Thanks.

This is too general of a question. Without disclosing any of your team's secrets, can you be a bit more specific?

Originally Posted by Manual Section 5

<R33> Adhesive backed tapes are NOT allowed except as follows:
• Velcro tape, any hook and loop tape or double-sided sticky foam may be used for attaching components
to the robot.
• Reflective tape may be used with optical sensors in small amounts.
• Adhesive backed tape and labels may be used for labeling purposes on wires, cables, pneumatic lines, etc.
• Electrical tape may be used as an electrical insulator.

To be legalistic about it, you could use traction tape IF it were not adhesive backed. Now you need to find out what the legal definition of "adhesive" is. It would probably be better to post this question in the Q&A forum at FIRST. There is no specific mention in this rule regarding "traction", only "adhesive".

[brandy836]

We can't get into the Q&A Forum at the moment.

We have pulley system that needs some type of grip around the axle. We were trying to use traction/grip tape to provide traction for the pulley.

The info that you have given me answers the my question completely. Thank you.