Tank Treads

[EricH]

I doubt it. I've seen that kind of track since this rule became one of the "standard" rules.

"Other attachments" may refer back to the days before this rule was implemented, when teams used metal cleats, file cards, Velcro, and pretty much anything else they could figure out how to use as a traction device as a traction device. The carpet was constantly getting destroyed--it's a brand-new carpet each regional these days, and often doesn't show too much damage, but if you get a really badly torn up one at the end of the event, that was Thursday or Friday damage back in those days. If you had a really light day, that is.

[devodl]

Eric,
After re-reading this rule and some of the history that brought it about I think you are right. IMHO the "other attachments" phrase was added so that someone wouldn't go out and purchase a track and then pop rivet nasty carpet rippers to the track.

We kept carpet happiness in mind as we fabricated our track.

Steve

[Al Skierkiewicz]

So you know (and to keep this in mind) some regional events take place in gyms on hardwood floors and others take place on soft rubber composite floors. This rule is to prevent damage to the subsurface as well as the carpet. As to rubber tracks attached to chains, the answer becomes a yes and no. Yes if rubber is the only material that contacts the carpet and is not so aggressive the it digs into the carpet fibers. No if the attachment uses fasteners that also contact the carpet and have the potential for damage. For any contrivance used to move the robot, your design should not be one that leaves (or has a potential to leave) a residue or lubricant on the carpet.

[devodl]

Thanks for the advice/confirmation about the intent of <R08>.
Thanks also for the heads up on avoiding damage to the subsurface.

I think we have it covered but we plan to send some pics to the GDM on TIMS to get their opinion.