Say my robot has a mechanism inside the 18" cube that can pivot using hinges, would I be able to push the mechanism so that it could extend?
Dpbailey:
Say my robot has a mechanism inside the 18" cube that can pivot using hinges, would I be able to push the mechanism so that it could extend?
Let’s take a look at the applicable rule from the VEX Gateway Game Manual . I’ve bolded some text for emphasis.
<SG5> During the Autonomous Period, Drivers and Coaches may handle their own Robot while the Robot is in contact with their own Alliance Starting Tile. During contact with the Robot, the Drivers or Coaches may not intentionally manipulate or modify the position of any Scoring Objects (aside from any which are being loaded into the Robot), either by direct hand contact or indirect contact via the Robot. **Drivers or Coaches also may not change the configuration of the Robot other than in the act of fixing the Robot (i.e. it is okay to reposition the robot relative to the field, but it is not okay to manually lift up the Robot’s arm). **
The intent of this rule is to allow teams to fix Robots that are unable to move, to load Match Loads into the Robot, to reposition and/or reorient Robots, and to activate additional autonomous modes by interacting with the Robot via sensors or buttons.
The intent of this rule is not to allow teams to manipulate their Robot in such a way that they are controlling the Robot via human contact or creating motions that lead to scoring.
What you’ve described is definitely considered changing the configuration of the robot, and is thus illegal.
Ok thanks but I have one more question.
What If I am adding match loads to my robot and due to the match loads the robot expands? Would that be legal?
Please take a look at the following Q&A entry:
I’ve copied and pasted the most important part below.
That being said, without seeing the actual device in action we cannot issue a blanket ruling. The final determination is up to the referees at your event. In general, it’s expected that robots will react to the introduction of Match Loads with minor movements and changes. However, simply using a Scoring Object in lieu of your hands to adjust the robot would not be considered legal. (i.e. Lifting a robot arm by pushing on it with a barrel)