Rule R33 states that bumpers must be “supported” by the frame perimeter, given that the space between the supports remains less than 8 inches. Does this only apply to each side individually, or does the distance between the supports for bumpers that go around corners also need to be less than 8 inches? Simply put, does the 8 inch distance reset at corners? (Our supports are greater than 1/4 inch deep)
My reading of it is “You must not be able to measure 8” along the bumper anywhere without hitting a support/rigid backing." Realistically the bigger rule is that they’re sturdy and don’t move or deform after a good hit, if you can pass that then I’ve had 1/16" aluminum sheet “supporting” the bumpers to make it legal.
The corners are where you’re going to be hit the most though, so it’s in your best interests to make those extremely durable. Personally I find a teammate with good legs (plays soccer, football, runs, really hates water bottles, whatever) and have them kick the bumper-ed up robot as hard as they can, multiple times all around the frame, preferably with steel toe boots. Really make a good effort to destroy them via blunt force trauma; because it’s either testing them now or testing them later, and you really want to catch this failure early.
Also note this part of R33 (bold is mine): “To be considered supported, a minimum of ½ in. (~13mm) at each end of each BUMPER wood segment must be backed by the FRAME PERIMETER(≤¼ in. gap)”
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