Aluminum angle on bumpers

[MikeDubreuil]

Originally Posted by Tristan Lall

That's a perfect example of two problems with the rules this year.

One: if the angle is optional, why don't the rules say so? (And why haven't the rules been updated, given that this question was first raised weeks ago?)

The problem is with graphic communication. The GDC supplies graphics in the Robot Manual to help describe what they are specifically referring to in certain rules. However, the graphics may contradict other rules. Unfortunately, the graphics can lead readers to conclusions the GDC never intended. Then us mere mortals rely on the Q/A to clear the confusion.

I am assuming in Figure 8-1, you are supposed to infer that the use of aluminum angle is optional because no bumper rule expressly tells you to use aluminum angle.

In Figure 8-2 (I know, beaten to death), you are not supposed to infer anything and simply look at the "OK" corner configurations.

Originally Posted by Tristan Lall

Two: if the Q&A advises something that isn't directly supported by the rules, what do teams do? (And what do you expect the inspectors to do? Assume that a Q&A is as good as a rule change, and make the teams comply with the Q&A?)

The GDC would say they provide clarification, meaning the Q/A responses are direclty supported by the rules. (that sentence may get me in trouble)

For me personally this has been a very tiresome year. The GDC wants a very specific bumper design. Unfortunately, the rules seem to be very non-specific and the graphics are confusing. Some folks around here find it simple and straight forward. They think that anyone who doesn't is either: A.) Trying to advance an illegal robot design, B.) lawyering the rules, C.) a moron; which have led to some viscous personal attacks. Quite frankly I don't pour my seemingly dwindling free time into something that I think is a waste of time. I think the rules discussions are important because it provides a platform for the GDC to understand where our thought process is- how people, who don't know the GDC's intent, interpret the rules.