Fasteners extending outside the FRAME PERIMETER

[martin417]

I have asked our team contact to post the following question on the Q&A. Let's hope for a speedy answer to clear this up. Just for informational purposes, our team has decided to re-design the robot to eliminate any fastener protrusions, we can't wait any more.

With the new wording for the definition of FRAME PERIMETER, any fasteners that protrude from the frame members, regardless of where they are located, are now excluded from the determination of the FRAME PERIMETER, so the FRAME PERIMETER is now determined only by the frame members. This is a more restrictive definition of the FRAME PERIMETER.

<R16> states: During normal operation no part of the ROBOT shall extend outside the vertical projection of the FRAME PERIMETER, except as permitted by Rule <G30>.

<G30> does not make allowances for fasteners. So by <R16> and the definition of FRAME PERIMETER, no fasteners may protrude from the frame members. However, <R07>D appears to allow clearance pockets, presumably for fasteners protruding from the frame members.

After much discussion, it is our opinion that the intent of the GDC is to allow fasteners to protrude from the frame members, therefore beyond the frame perimeter. The current wording of the rule and the definition of the FRAME PERIMETER prohibit such protrusions.

Can we get a clearly worded (yes or no) answer to this question:

Are fasteners allowed to extend beyond the frame members (as long as they are inside the max dimensions)?

If the answer is yes, can we get a rule or definition change so that there will be no questions at inspection?