Robot Rule R08 - what does it mean, and what should it mean?

[Al Skierkiewicz]

In looking at the rule...

<R08> ROBOT wheels, tracks, and other parts intended to provide traction on the carpet may be purchased or fabricated (“traction devices” include all parts of the ROBOT that are designed to transmit any propulsive and/or braking forces between the ROBOT and the FIELD). In no case will traction devices that damage the carpet or other playing surfaces be permitted. Traction devices shall not have surface features such as metal, sandpaper, hard plastic studs, cleats, or other attachments. Anchors (i.e. devices that are deployed/used to keep one’s ROBOT in one place and prevent if from being moved by another ROBOT) shall not use metal in contact with the carpet to “stay put.” Gaining traction by using adhesives or Velcro-like fastener material is not allowed.

The interpretation should be applied to "traction devices" and devices used to transmit power to those devices. I believe the intent is to prevent damage to the carpet surface and to prevent damage to the underlying floor. In some cases, the arena is setting up the field over basketball court, or composition rubber running surfaces. Robots that have moving metal in contact with the field can penetrate the carpet and the sub surface. In addition, robot parts that damage the carpet require repair between matches. This year has been one of those years that carpet became so damaged that many events played more on colored gaffer's tape repairs than on actual carpet. Many teams were surprised when refs and/or inspectors informed them of problems with their robot structure damaging carpet and the possibility of DQ should they fail to fix the problem. The need for low CG combined with the extreme angle of the bumps and ramps caused significant carpet damage throughout the season.