I have a Rule Question!

[Jesse]

Would a Plow shaped design be considedered a bumper addition to the robot as we are allowed to extend the starting position 4 inches for bumpers etc. Or would it be considered a functional part of the robot and not be allowed?

[KyleGilbert45]

Not sure if you know or not since you didnt state so but,

FIRST has a Q&A section here: FIRST Q&A

You'll need to have your team's main contact post the question there though.

[Bill Gold]

Originally Posted by Jesse

Would a Plow shaped design be considedered a bumper addition to the robot as we are allowed to extend the starting position 4 inches for bumpers etc. Or would it be considered a functional part of the robot and not be allowed?

A bumper is meant to cussion your robot (or to protect it) when it comes into contact with another robot or field structure (like the steps/goals/bars). It sounds to me like you want to use this extra 4" to help corral balls, which would serve a purpose other than protecting your robot. I would deem that a functional part of your robot, and not a bumper. Although, in past years teams have gotten away with having cutouts in their bumpers to match part of the shape of a goal or some other piece of the game. But, just because you can get away with things doesn't make it ethical to design your robot in such a way that you're clinging to technicalities. There are plenty of other ways to be innovative and otherwise creative while still being completely within the rules. I hope this helps.

[Jesse]

Thanks!