In the current version of the game manual, rule <R6> is self-conflicting, and also extremely limiting due to its current wording, to an extent that I don’t believe to be intentional by the GDC.
The core issue lies with <R6d>, which states that “License plates are considered functional components, and must meet the requirements of all Robot rules.” — This presents an issue, because without the use of craft materials such as vinyl stickers, tape, paint, construction paper, marker, pen, etc., it is very difficult to create a legible license plate. With the current wording, all of those materials are prohibited, and the only logical option is the official license plate kit.
This obviously is not the intent of the rule, as Figure R6-2 Below clearly shows an example of what is considered a legal custom license plate: a blue VEX metal plate with a decal applied.
To avoid this confusion, license plates should either be considered decorative, or additional explanation should be given in the game manual.
P.S: I am not a coach or a referee, and am thus not authorized to make a Q&A post. If you are in the position to relay this information to the official Q&A, I would greatly appreciate it.
My understanding of this is that only the plastic plate itself is functional. If license plates are functional components, then you can still apply stickers to them, just like you can apply stickers to a functional c-channel.
I figure that’s what they are going for, but they need to provide further explanation to make this clear. One could argue that it isn’t a license plate in the first place without the color and numbers
Depends if those letters are connected or seperated.
Custom polycarb for decorations is no longer exempt from restrictions on plastic. Each individual letter and number will count towards your 12 piece limit of polycarb. If you are doing that, might want to connect all the letters together so it is one piece.
Mine as well make it all out of plastic…
(See R25A)
I saw someone suggest cutting out paper or cardstock and attaching that for decor. I can’t find anything that makes this illegal, so it could be an interesting concept.
