Hey I was wondering, for the high stakes competition, to what extent can we use 3d printing, because I saw in the rules under fabricated parts I saw that 3d printing was allowed, but I didn’t quite understand what we could use it for, and the same with metal parts made from raw materials?
Hey!
Those fabricated parts are for the VURC (VEX University, or collegiate level) competition, which has much greater possibilities for constructing robots. See Section 6 of the game manual for more information on VEX U, but those rules don’t apply to the regular competition.
For the normal v5 competition, 3d printing is only allowed for decoration. See < R8g > and < R19g > for exact details!
If you don’t see the section headers, you may miss the portion of the game those rules are referring to, when you read the game manual try to pay attention :)
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I assume you are in VEXU? If so 3D printing is legal. If you’re in VEXV5 it is not legal. Some ideas of stuff to print is intakes, gears, and wheels.
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Assuming that you are competing in V5RC (as the tag says V5 tech support), 3d printing isnt allowed in competitions. Fabricated parts is for VURC (previously called VEXU). I have seen some forum posts on using 3dp to prototype however, but take it off before the competition.
only for decoration and holding license plates anything else is not allowed
Hey there so i did find that fabricated parts rule. sadly I believe that this rule would only apply To vex U teams as this rule is found in the VURC Robot rules section which if you are A Vex V5RC team none of these Rule changes would apply to the competition and robots
I have seen 3d printing used for several different decorations and there are many teams that use 3d printed license plate holders for quicker and easier swapping. Personally i have made license plate holders and controller scuffs for the teams at my school using a Creality Ender 3 S1. One last thing is you should keep spares on hand because like other parts, 3d printed pieces can wear out or break. I have had license plate holders break in some very aggressive and defense-heavy matches.
3D-Printing is only allowed for VEX U, it is not at all permitted for use on your robot in VRC
I just asked ChatGPT. Maybe ask ChatGPT (and fact check) or search the forum next time before asking on the forum!
VEX Robotics Competition (VRC) and VEX U have different rules regarding the use of 3D-printed parts and fabricated components. Below is a detailed explanation for each competition level.
VEX Robotics Competition (VRC):
Use of 3D-Printed Parts:
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Not Allowed for Functional Components: In VRC, teams are generally not permitted to use 3D-printed parts as functional components of their robots. This means you cannot use 3D-printed parts that would affect the robot’s performance, structure, or interaction with game elements.
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Allowed for Non-Functional Decorations: 3D-printed parts can be used only as non-functional decorations. These parts must not have any impact on the robot’s functionality or give any competitive advantage. For example, a 3D-printed team logo attached to your robot is acceptable.
Fabricated Parts from Raw Materials:
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Restrictions Apply: Fabricating parts from raw materials like metal, plastic, or wood is not allowed for creating functional robot components.
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Permissible Modifications: You can modify official VEX parts by cutting, bending, or drilling, as long as these modifications are within the guidelines specified in the game manual.
Reference to Rules:
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Game Manual: Always consult the latest VRC Game Manual for specific rules under the section titled “Robot Construction Rules.”
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Official Q&A Forum: For any clarifications, refer to the official VEX Q&A forum where you can ask questions and receive official answers.
VEX U Competition:
Use of 3D-Printed Parts:
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Allowed with Limitations: VEX U teams are allowed to use 3D-printed parts as functional components of their robots.
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Material and Size Restrictions: There are limitations on the amount and type of materials you can use. For example, there might be a limit on the total volume or weight of 3D-printed parts incorporated into the robot.
Fabricated Parts from Raw Materials:
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Custom Fabrication Permitted: Teams can fabricate parts from raw materials such as metals, plastics, and composites.
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Compliance with Specifications: All custom parts must comply with the specifications outlined in the VEX U Robot Construction Rules, including size constraints and safety regulations.
Electronics:
- Additional Electronics Allowed: VEX U teams have more freedom to use custom electronics, including sensors and microcontrollers, provided they meet the competition’s electrical rules.
Reference to Rules:
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VEX U Appendix: Refer to the VEX U-specific appendix in the Game Manual, which outlines all additional allowances and restrictions for university teams.
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Stay Updated: Rules can change annually, so it’s crucial to review the latest manual each season.
Recommendations for Both Competitions:
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Read the Latest Game Manual Thoroughly:
- The game manual is updated each season and contains all the rules and specifications you need to follow.
- Pay special attention to sections on robot construction and the use of materials.
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Use Official Channels for Clarifications:
- If you’re unsure about any rule, use the official VEX Q&A forum to ask for clarifications.
- Responses on the forum are considered official and can guide your decisions.
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Safety First:
- Regardless of the materials or methods used, ensure that all parts are safe and do not pose any risk to other teams or the playing field.
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Document Your Materials:
- Keep a detailed record of all custom parts and materials used, as inspectors may require this information during competitions.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your robot complies with the competition rules and is ready for a successful season. Good luck with your robot design and the competition ahead!
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hey, so how do I know the difference, and know which one I am? Sorry I’m kinda new to this
In VEX U/VURC the “U” stands for university.
Are you in high school, or university?
That’s how you tell the difference
Ask your coach, they can give you a definitive answer. We’re just guessing here, based on the very meager amount of information you’ve given us.
If your team has a number (like 12345A) and you are a middle or high school student, you’re likely a V5RC competitor, so you can’t use 3d printing for functional parts.
Meanwhile, if you are a member of a college/university and participating in VURC, your team would have a team number made of letters (like ABCD), and you would be able to fabricate parts from raw stock and use functional 3d prints.
thanks, that now makes sense…
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That is a really bad idea, for numerous reasons, and I think its not a great idea to suggest that in a forum with the number of students there are here. One big reason is the information cut-off of Chat GPT is before the release of the High Stakes manual and wont have the relevant up to date information. Another is how frequently it hallucinates into giving false responses. But I digress…
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I have 3D printed license plate holders I designed last year which never caused any problem at competitions and I recently made and printed a battery holder… idk if it’s legal, does anyone know?
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License plate holder should be fine.
Battery holder is not fine as it is providing a structural function. You can use other legal methods of securing battery in place that does not require 3D printing.
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Would that count things like those battery clamps and other such items to hold functioning parts?
Yes those serve a functional purpose during matches and are therefore illegal to 3d print.
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