I’ve got an idea for something to 3D print and add to a robot, but I am unsure about if it would be allowed t competitions. The idea is a little end cap for metal. As teams cut metal in order to put together robots, the metal can become very sharp, so all that this cap would do is cover the sharp edges, so that builders don’t cut themselves on the robot. I feel like this should be allowed, since it doesn’t add any kind of advantage to the robot in a match, but at the same time, I’m skeptical because it isn’t a part made by VEX. Any input on this? I would love to be able to do this, since I tend to cut myself on our robot often, but I am unsure.
That is not legal, as it is technically functional; while it doesn’t provide any advantage, it does serve a function (preventing the edges from being sharp), and thus is not a nonfunctional decoration.
What you can do is simply file down the cut edges, rather than covering them.
Depending on how the end caps are used they could be considered a non-functional decoration based on rule R7-d-ii. The way I see it as long as it is kept relatively small and never is used in contact with the field or game objects, I would consider it a non-functional decoration that is fully supported/backed by a legal Vex component.
That being said I would suggest you ask this in the Q&A.
which clearly states the function the OP intends the non-vex part to serve.
What you can do with is split the pvc pneumatic tubing and use it as edge liner or edge trim. It works okay, though application of heat with a heat gun can make the corners bends look better. Just don’t overdo the heat. You can also bend edge liner out of your polycarbonate allotment, but that’s really not worth it.
Here are some commercial sheet metal edge trims, which kinda makes the point that it’s functional, not just decorative:
You should just take an angle grinder or dremel to it. Although I have previously used a metal file. Grinding away the sharp bits and smoothing it out is the better way to go than just trying to cover it.
I’m not sure if nonfunctional means that it serves no purpose whatsoever, or that it serves no purpose in matches. Might be a good Q&A, unless I’m missing something.
Based on the way it is worded in the rules I would think it is defined as something that does not affect robot performance or the outcome of the match.
ofc, you could just have a thing that pops open when more than say 120 psi is put in, and releases the excess pressure. It would be cheaper than a gauge, and easier to test as you just put more than 120 in. (120 is a margin of error thing)
Right, but having some information cannot be worse than having no information, even if that information may be incorrect. In the worst case, all you have to do is ignore it.
Anyway, in the below Q&A, it is stated that even if the pressure gauge is only viewed before and after a match (but not during), and is never viewed by referees, it is still not considered a non-functional decoration.
Right, if you want to get down to it, lots of “nonfunctional” decoration serves a purpose. Decals and LED lights make a team look more professional and draws them more attention. A GoPro serves the purpose of allowing a team to analyze match footage. I suppose any line drawn will have to be a tad arbitrary.
True, I didn’t think of that. I only thought that it protected builders. So this is definitely illegal because it serves the purpose of allowing the robot to pass inspection. Regardless, just file the metal.
