Answered: Non-Functional Decorations (R7 clarification)

[TN-36]

Hi GDC,
Our team has a question regarding the use of non-shattering plastic as a decoration.

Teams may add non-functional decorations provided that these do not affect the robot performance in any significant way or affect the outcome of the match. These decorations must be in the spirit of the competition. Inspectors will have final say in what is considered “nonfunctional”.

Non shattering plastic from the following list; polycarbonate, acetel monopolymer (Delrin), acetal copolymer (Acetron GP), POM (acetal), ABS, PEEK, PET, HDPE, LDPE, Nylon (all grades), Polypropylene, FEP; as cut from a single 12" x 24" sheet up to 0.070" thick.

Our team was wondering if, per R7, we would be allowed to use more than 12" x 24" of non-shattering plastic if it is used as non-functional decoration (i.e. graphics panel)?
Thanks so much for all your time and consideration

[Karthik]

@TN-36

Our team was wondering if, per R7, we would be allowed to use more than 12" x 24" of non-shattering plastic if it is used as non-functional decoration (i.e. graphics panel)?

Yes, this is legal, provided you do not violate any additional rules. Please pay careful attention to

@VEX Toss Up Game Manual

<R7> Robots are allowed the following additional “non-VEX” components:
Any guards or decals must be backed by legal materials that provide the same functionality. i.e. If your robot has a giant decal that prevents Scoring Objects from falling out of the robot, the decal must be backed by VEX material that also prevents the Scoring Objects from falling out.

Thus, if you use extra plastic for your graphics panel, and the panel is providing other functional uses (e.g. preventing Scoring Objects from falling out) it must be backed by legal materials that provide the same functionality.

[TN-36]

Sorry for the late response!
Thank you for the clarification, our team greatly appreciates it!

[Karthik]

You’re welcome!