bumper question

[math4origami]

according to the manual, we can have segmented bumpers (not the complete length of the robot side). it says the minimum length is 6 inches. however, the rules also say the bumpers can extend into the corner space up to 3.5 inches (only the noodle and cloth parts).

so, can that 3.5 inches count as part of the 6 inch minimum?

what i mean is, im trying to get the widest possible space in-between two bumper segments. if the 6 inches has to be within the 28 robot width, then the widest is 28 - 6 - 6 = 16 inches gap.

is it possible to increase that gap by moving the bumpers into the corner area (outside the 28x38 envelope)?

[Al Skierkiewicz]

I am not sure what you are asking but the bumpers are not included in sizing dimensions. You must remove them for inspection weight and size.

[math4origami]

what i mean is, when the rules say that the minimum bumper length is 6 inches (<R37> of the robot i think), does that include the 3.5 inches the bumper is allowed to extend into the corner?

another way to phrase it is: does the "six inch minimum bumper" mean "at least six inches of pool noodle", or "at least six inches of plywood"?

[MrForbes]

It looks to me like the intent of the rule is to have no less than 6" support (plywood) length at each bumper segment, so I would guess that the part that extends into the corner would not count as bumper length.

However, the rule does not appear to address your question, so you might see if it has been answered in the Q&A, and if not, have your designated team representative ask there.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

math,
The rule specifies that the minimum length anywhere on the robot can be no less than 6". The 3-1/2" corner rule specifies that soft bumper parts only may extend beyond the corner of the robot, i.e. a vertical pool noodle wraped with the same continuos fabric as the rest of the bumper. I believe the intent is to have a substantial plywood backing of at least 6 inches in length. Since the plywood may not extend into the corner (see fig 8-2 & 8-3) a corner section as you describe would have to be 9-1/2".
The Q&A might be a better place for this question.