Preseason Design: What are the Limits?

[Mr. Van]

Actually, I believe that the question has been answered. IF (yes, this is a big if) Section 8.3.3 is still in the manual in its 2007 form, you may NOT use any "detailed dimensioned drawings of parts" that were created before kickoff.

I don't think you can get around this by saying that a 3-D model which does not display dimensions has no dimensions.

I also guess that this includes any specific drawings in things like "Nothing but Dewalts".

I also believe that this rule in 2007 had to have been the most violated rule in the history of FRC. From chain tensioners to complete drive systems to almost entire arms to wheels, teams used designs that were identical to those that were implemented in years past.

I do hope that this rule does not appear in the 2008 manual. If it does, then lots of the cool stuff, from wheels to 4-speed shifters that we have seen here on CD, are going to be simply nice pit display items and drawings... and we will again see a huge number of violations of a rule that can not be enforced.

-Mr. Van
Coach, Robodox