Question: In regards to frame design/configuration, the word orthogonal is used. My team has an interesting concept, but we are looking for clarification of the term (as used by FIRST.)
Can you tell us what specific rule(s) you’re referring too? might help us help you more quickly
Section 8 R011 rule update is where the orthogonal reference appears.
Hmm, now that you mention it, it is interesting. Orthogonal just means it’s perpendicular to the two other vectors, if you made a robot that was say a parallelpipid but the only issue I see is that it has to be self supporting when it’s being measured.
It was also in team update #1 if anyone wants to quick reference it.
Fake edit: Rereading the section, the box right after it says “Dimension 3 (vertical): 60 inches” this kinda gives up the possibility of a half flop robot.
Basically, the 28", 38", and 60" are all orthogonal dimensions with the 60" being a normal vector to the playing surface.
"At the start of, and during, the MATCH the ROBOT shall fit within the
orthogonal dimensions listed below: "
That means that the dimensions are orthognal, the 28" x 38" x 60" space that the robot must fit into, is a right rectangular prism. That does not necessarily imply that the robot itself must be orthognal.
Of course you are encouraged to ask on the official Q&A to make sure! Perhaps you could ask if robot shapes other than rectangles are allowed.
Mathematically:
Orthogonal is a term meaning that a line and a plane are perpendicular. The special name orthogonal is given so people immediately known in three space.
FIRST-ly:
The rule basically means that if a box is created of dimensions 28x38x60, your robot should be able to fit inside of this box. If your robot has an origin point, then there are x, y, and z directions from that point. Those vectors create planes which the third vector in the set is orthogonal to. Basically, fit your robot in a box that size. Hope that was helpful!
I am assuming you’re referring to the official FIRST q&a?
Thanks for your clarification.
I think we’re refering to math.
Yes, I am.
You’ve answered my question. Thank you everyone.