Rule G3 says: "During the Match, *Robots *may not expand beyond the 13”x20” area they were limited to at the start of the Match. However, *Robots *are permitted to expand beyond the 15” height restriction they were limited to at the start of the Match."
If a robot has a rectangular profile and is 19.5" long and 15" tall, or taller once it expands upward. If it is fully or even partially on the ramp; the maximum horizontal dimension could be measured as longer than the 20" limit, due to the angle at which the robot is positioned while leaning on that field element. Would that be a violation of rule G3?
THIS ANSWER HAS BEEN UPDATED. PLEASE SEE THE LAST POST IN THIS THREAD FOR THE CURRENT AND FINAL RESPONSE.
Good question! Maximum dimensions are always measured as if the Robot was sitting flat on the field tiles; thus driving upon the Ramp or any other field element would not be considered an expansion.
We’ve updated our answer on this to be consistent with the intent of the rules.
1. When the Robot is on or getting on the Ramp, its maximum dimensions are measured as if the Robot was sitting flat on the field tiles. This allows the Robot to climb the ramp without worrying about going over the size constraints.
2. When the Robot is on the field, momentary incursions of the maximum dimensions as a result of going over the ball corrals are allowed. This allows the Robot to freely traverse to the field without worrying about going over the size constraints.
3. At all other times Robots are not permitted to exceed the 13" x 20" maximum dimensions. Specifically, if Robots lean forward and balance on or against the fence, the configuration still must be withing the 13" x 20" size constraints.