Hi,
I have been looking to mount the rear bumpers on the bot. However, we have a series of bolts (two) that extend 3/4 of an in beyond the frame. As of now, I was considering drilling corresponding holes in the bumper backer, allowing the bumper to sit flush against the frame (with the bolt ends inside the bumper).
Would this be legal? I searched through Q/A as well as the rules and couldn’t find anything relating to the topic. I do feel, however, that I might not get a response from Q/A (design review rather than a rule clarification).
I can answer clarifying questions, provide pics, etc.
Drill the clearance holes in the plywood so it sits flush against the frame. If questioned just tell the inspector I said it was ok. I can’t quote exact ruling but we’ve used the method on teams for years. Just be sure the holes don’t compromise rigidity or other rules.
“Pocketing” the bumper backing to accommodate minor protrusions beyond the frame perimeter is okay. However, <R02> says such protrusions cannot be more than 1/4 inch. Your bolt heads go beyond that, so they’ll end up defining the perimeter.
If you can’t move the bolts, I think a good option at this point is to add a 1/2"-thick “shim” to the side of the frame where those bolt heads are. It’ll add an inch to your perimeter measurement, though.
Yeah, I figured that would be the case. I designed the robot to fit within 112 in frame perimeter rule with those bolts, so its not a problem to add the shim.