Hello VEX community,
I wanted to ask for clarification on the legality of using a 3D-printed cover for a solenoid on the pneumatics system. The cover would clip onto the solenoid and is designed purely for protective purposes. It wouldn’t interfere with or enhance any mechanical functions, and if it were to be removed, the robot’s functionality would remain the same.
Would this be considered a legal non-functional decoration under the current rules.
Thanks in advance for your insights!
According to your description the cover has a function to protect the solenoid, therefore it is prohibited use of 3D according to the Game Manual.
But if we can show the judges it can be removed without affecting the robots performance then is it allowed?
Just remember it is the Head Referee who has final say at the event about Game Manual rules.
Your description is the case is there to protect the solenoid - I am assuming from impact from other robots. So just removing the case is not going to impact your desired functionality of the case.
Perhaps I am misunderstanding your application and meaning of protective purposes.
Try asking in the VEX Q&A to get a definitive ruling, this would be a great step if it was allowed, but I suspect it isn’t due to it having a functional purpose.
https://www.robotevents.com/V5RC/2024-2025/QA
Well, look at it this way:
If your solenoid is damaged during a match, will it immediately affect your robot performance during said match?
And the answer to that is yes, because damage to one would usually disable an entire mechanism, so therefore it is considered functional.
Alternatively, bending VEX metal into a protective cover would likely be more robust and would be clearly legal.
5x25 Aluminum plates could be easily cut and bent to form a cover as needed.