Answered: How much can my robot be modified between matches??

[rAd]

Hi guys!!
My team and I were just wondering if it is legal to have a chassis with different intake mechanisms. We have designed different mechanisms to grab the game elements, and it’s really easy to change from one mechanism to another. The robot looks different when it’s changed, but it has the same chassis, which means just one robot and not two.
Could we change our robot between matches??
Thanks

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GONBOTZ 6966A
Mexico City

[Karthik]

@rAd.

Hi guys!!
My team and I were just wondering if it is legal to have a chassis with different intake mechanisms. We have designed different mechanisms to grab the game elements, and it’s really easy to change from one mechanism to another. The robot looks different when it’s changed, but it has the same chassis, which means just one robot and not two.
Could we change our robot between matches??
Thanks

–
GONBOTZ 6966A
Mexico City

Let’s take a look at the applicable rule in the VEX Gateway Game Manual.

<R1> Only one (1) robot will be allowed to compete per team in the VEX Robotics Competition. Though it is expected that teams will make changes to their robot at the competition, a team is limited to only one (1) robot. The VEX Robotics Design System is intended to be a mobile robotics design platform. As such, a VEX robot, for the purposes of the VRC, has the following subsystems:

Subsystem 1: Mobile robotic base including wheels, tracks, legs, or any other mechanism that allows the robot to navigate the majority of the flat playing field surface.
Subsystem 2: Power and control system that includes a VEX legal battery, a VEX control system, and associated motors for the mobile robotic base.
Subsystem 3: Additional mechanisms (and associated motors) that allow manipulation of game objects or navigation of field obstacles.

Given the above definitions, a minimum robot for use in any VRC event (including skills challenges) must consist of 1 and 2 above. Thus if you are swapping out an entire subsystem of either item 1 or 2, you have now created a second robot and are no longer legal.
a. Teams may not compete with one robot, while a second is being modified or assembled.
b. Teams may not switch back and forth between multiple robots during a competition.

From what you’ve described, you would be switching between to different subsystems which fall under Subsystem 3. As such you would not be in violation of any rules. Thus, your strategy is legal.

[rAd]

Thanks for your time and help!
If we have more questions I’ll let you know

–
GONBOTZ 6966A
Mexico City

[Karthik]

@rAd.

Thanks for your time and help!
If we have more questions I’ll let you know

–
GONBOTZ 6966A
Mexico City

You’re welcome!