Team 1647: Iron Devils Update

[TomH]

Just a question, and I am aware that it has been mentioned before, in accordance to the rule book, does the idea you have for the folding mechanism break the ball control rules (It's above the bumper zone, can be considered moving)? I understand that it is a mechanism that is not powered or has any influence by the robot (besides it moving), but it can move/flex and do you think first would considered it moving when in contact with the ball? But anyway, good luck with the rest of your build season, and how are those solenoids doing?

-Tom H

P.S., And I though our electronics board was tight.

[KyleLT1987]

Originally Posted by TomH

Just a question, and I am aware that it has been mentioned before, in accordance to the rule book, does the idea you have for the folding mechanism break the ball control rules (It's above the bumper zone, can be considered moving)? I understand that it is a mechanism that is not powered or has any influence by the robot (besides it moving), but it can move/flex and do you think first would considered it moving when in contact with the ball? But anyway, good luck with the rest of your build season, and how are those solenoids doing?

-Tom H

P.S., And I though our electronics board was tight.

We considered the ambiguity of the rule on what is or isn't an active mechanism and came up with this:

<G45>:
Active BALL control - ROBOTS may not control BALL direction with active MECHANISMS above the BUMPER. Violation: PENALTY.
MECHANISMS are considered “active” if they are in motion relative to the ROBOT while in contact with the BALL. Resetting or moving MECHANISMS while not in contact with a BALL is permitted as the MECHANISMS are not considered “active.”

<R19>:
ROBOTS must be designed so that in normal operation BALLS cannot extend more than 3 inches inside
a) the FRAME PERIMETER below the level of the BUMPER ZONE (see Figure 8-5),
b) a MECHANISM or feature designed or used to deflect BALLS in a controlled manner that is above the level of the BUMPER ZONE.


We put the team "lawyers" on this one and we feel as though we are within the constraints established by FIRST


Best of luck with your team as well Tom, perhaps we'll see you all in Atlanta

[TomH]

I understand more of you position regarding this mechanism. After making that clear, I believe that your mechanism does not break any rules. It will be up to FIRST though to decide wheither it is legal or not, but with your "lawyers" on your side, I think they will not have a problem with it.

Best of luck to you guys too, and who knows, anything can happen!

[GaryVoshol]

The GDC appears to agree with your "lawyers" (although they'd probably prefer you not to have them on retainer): http://forums.usfirst.org/showthread.php?t=13798

[rcmolloy]

Our Final Robot With The Ball Rebound Up!