Define "ROBOT"

[Vikesrock]

This is a bit different than the OP's question as it allows 1519's configuration. However if I was making the rules these are the changes I would make to try to clear up what is and isn't allowed. While exact wordings are important, in this case I have forgone them in most of my changes as this is not an actual rulebook merely an expression of intent.

Add in a clause somewhere to the effect of "For the purpose of all robot and game rules, with the exception of R12 and R21, "the robot" shall refer to a desired starting configuration and each starting configuration must be separately determined to be in compliance with these rules."

-Change R08 so that a "set" of bumpers would have a maximum weight of X lbs. (I am personally in favor of increasing the limit to, say, 20 lbs. even to accommodate robots with a single configuration completely surrounded by bumpers.). In any given starting configuration all or a subset of these bumpers may be used as long as all bumpers used satisfy the rules regarding height, bumper zone and perimeter coverage.

-Change R12 so that it states that when determining weight all robot components and mechanisms desired to be part of any starting configuration shall be weighed together.

-Change R21's to something like: "The costs of all non-2008 Kit parts and materials presented at inspection and included in the weighing shall be recorded (in US dollars) by the team, and a list of all such
items and their costs presented at ROBOT inspection."

Feel free to comment/rip open glaring loopholes or weaknesses in the changes I have made.

Slightly off-topic, but according to the current rules we must cost account a mandatory flag holder and mandatory bumpers?