Question about G4

VEX Robotics Competition Discussion VRC > Tower Takeover (19/20)
#1

The context here is that my team wants to create antitips with linear slides that deploy once we move forward. (i.e they stay in size constraints by pushing into the wall.)

The rule G4 permits using the field to contain yourself in size constraints but it seems to contradict itself. I may be misunderstanding the rule.

" Robots begin the Match in the starting volume. At the beginning of a Match, each Robot must be smaller than a volume of 18” (457.2 mm) long by 18” (457.2 mm) wide by 18” (457.2 mm) tall.Using Field Elements, such as the field perimeter wall, to maintain starting size is only acceptable if the Robot would still satisfy the constraints of and pass inspection without the Field Element. Robots in violation of this limit will be removed from the field prior to the start of the Match, at the Head Referee’s discretion. "

So if you have your robot stay in size constraints by using the field permiter how would it pass size restriction without it?

1 Like
Expansion problem
#2

Sry m8, that’s called a flawed design. The only reason why the rule was worded this way is if the robot can stay in 181818 but needs a field object to activate another mechanism. Ex. Running into a wall to release a pin that release the anti tip mechanism.

#3

The quote reads “Using Field Elements, such as the field perimeter wall, to maintain starting size is only acceptable if the Robot would still satisfy the constraints of and pass inspection without the Field Element.”

My key word is ‘maintain’.

4 Likes
#4

You should really post this type of question on the official q&a.

#5

Yeah, basically what this is saying is “You can’t do that.”

If your linear slides are held in by the field perimeter at the beginning of a match, then you are in violation and can reasonably be DQed.

5 Likes
#6

It has always been the case that the robot has to fit the size constraints on the inspection table, period. So using the field walls to maintain the robot within the size constraint, if the robot would NOT pass the size constraint without the field wall is strictly forbidden.

#7

Yeah that makes sense. It’s kinda weird how they mentioned that you can use the field perimeter to hold yourself in size though.

I don’t see any situation where you could do that and fit within size constraints without it.

#8

I do agree that that wording is a bit confusing, but you can’t use the perimeter. try using some sort of pin release system.

2 Likes
#9

Look at the last phrase “Without the field element” near the end of this sentence. This is very weirdly worded, but what it’s saying is your robot should be able to stay within 18" ^3 limits even without any field elements. To simplify even further “Your preload must not be used to keep your robot within the 18” limit" and “The perimeter the robot touches must not be used to keep your robot within the 18” limit."
Hopefully this answers your question (Although it’s unofficially answered), and regardless sometimes it’s better safe than sorry so don’t be stretching rules, especially for something that would barely benefit you.

2 Likes
Question on <G4>