Bumpers

[Urban Hawk]

when i talk about that spring mechanism i mearly mean something that can take the blow with the bumper so you either dont get it snaped off on impact or be compleatly stiff and have it take the entire force of the blow from the robot rather then the bumper. it would not be somthing not something that would change

(i have to turn off computer and head back to my house so ill answer second part of question when i get back on there)

[EricH]

Originally Posted by Urban Hawk

when i talk about that spring mechanism i mearly mean something that can take the blow with the bumper so you either dont get it snaped off on impact or be compleatly stiff and have it take the entire force of the blow from the robot rather then the bumper. it would not be somthing not something that would change

(i have to turn off computer and head back to my house so ill answer second part of question when i get back on there)

In other words, an articulated bumper. Just be sure you expand the bumper perimeter accordingly.

[Urban Hawk]

to better explain what im thinking i made a model on microsoft word though its not very good

[EricH]

Originally Posted by Urban Hawk

to better explain what im thinking i made a model on microsoft word though its not very good

Now I understand. Just be warned, this configuration would potentially be illegal. Here's why.

1) We will assume that sections A-F of <R08> are met. This will greatly simplify life (though <R08-E> would be hard to meet).

2) We now face <R08-G>. "BUMPERS must attach to the ROBOT with a rigid fastening system to form a tight, robust connection to the main ROBOT structure/frame (e.g. not attached with Velcro!). The attachment system must be designed to withstand vigorous game play – nut and bolt fasteners are recommended. All removable fasteners (e.g. bolts, locking pins, pip-pins, etc.) will be considered part of the BUMPERS." This is not a problem if the frame moves with the bumpers. If it doesn't, you have to redesign your bumpers.

3) Next up: <R08-I>. (<R08-H> is presumed to have been satisfied.) "BUMPERS must protect all exterior corners of the BUMPER PERIMETER (see Figure 8 - 2)." You've got a gap wide enough to take a hit in those corners. In other words, I'm not sure they're protected.

4) <R08-J> and <R08-K> are presumed fulfilled.

5) <R08-L> reads, "The BUMPERS must be fixed to the BUMPER PERIMETER." If the perimeter is mobile with respect to the rest of the chassis, you're probably fine. But if it isn't, the bumpers aren't legal.

6) <R08-M> means your frame must go with the bumpers.

7) <R08-N> through <R08-P> are presumed fulfilled.

You're questionable at best. But, there is also one other thing to consider. <R18>, the trailer hitch rule.

<R18-B> means that you have to have that section solid with respect to the robot, not movable. So you make arrangements to have the rest of that side move, bringing you into violation of <R08-D> and possibly <R08-E> In other words, if that side moves, I would bet that many inspectors won't let you through.

At best, 3 sides of the robot could do that. But it's a risky proposition under the rules. You'd have to make sure of all your rules being satisfied. If even one of them isn't, then you won't be allowed to compete.