Extending Below Bumpers in Endgame

Competition Rules/Strategy
1

In previous years, mechanisms were not allowed to extend below the bumpers to “push” up the robot. This year, R25 states the same thing:

“A ROBOT deploys a MECHANISM which lifts the BUMPERS outside the BUMPER ZONE (when virtually transposed onto a flat floor). This violates R25”

However, it states that there is an exception to this in G23, which states:

“BUMPERS must be in the BUMPER ZONE (see R25) during the MATCH unless a ROBOT is completely in its HAB ZONE or supported by a ROBOT completely in its HAB ZONE.”

I’m interpreting this as the “BUMPER ZONE” doesn’t apply in the hab area, which would then permit using a pneumatic-like device to push the robot up to the platform. Anyone else think that this is a correct interpretation (there has never been an exception to this rule before, that’s why I’m not sure)?

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2

I read it the same way as you. I think that’s the correct interpretation.

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3

I also agree: In the Hab zone, R25 is not required

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4

The robot in the animation did something like this.

5

So sub-drivetrain mechanisms can be deployed only in the Hab?

6

Only in the HAB, yes. The only way I see around this is if your sub-drivetrain mechanism doesn’t lift the bumpers out of the bumper zone I believe, in accordance with R25:

Except as allowed per G23, BUMPERS must be located entirely within the BUMPER ZONE, which is the volume contained between the floor and a virtual horizontal plane 71⁄2 in. (~19 cm) above the floor in reference to the ROBOT standing normally on a flat floor. BUMPERS do not have to be parallel to the floor.

7

And we all know that the videos are never wrong. :yum: I saw that immediately in the kickoff and thought, “Bumper Zone violation.” Later I read G23.

Aside: After seeing the video at enough events, I often try to figure out how many penalties and/or illegal robots I can spy.

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