I have a question about how FIRST defines an appendage.
They use the definition “a subordinate part attached to something; an auxiliary part; addition”. They have also said that an appendage may split into different “forks” outside of the frame perimeter (e.g. the appendage stretches out 7" then splits into two parts"
Is clamshell-style appendage that is attached to a tower on the robot at 2 points legal?
Thanks!
So long as all parts of it are contiguous at any point while it is outside the frame perimeter, I can’t see why not.
The only way to know the legality of a design is by reading the rules and looking at the Q&A. No one here can give you any more information than is available in those two locations - anything more than that would be opinions and interpretations. To know for sure, ask the Q&A!
Thank you!
We just didn’t want to build the thing and then have them tell us it wasn’t legal 
On this particular question, Q&A has been rather non-common-sense.
So as a matter of opinion and interpretation, we’ve been giving a very “safe” interpretation that should hold water.