Ball Possesion, Robot Orientation, and Fans

[FRC854]

My team and i had a couple questions about the 2009 game rules regarding the robot.

First we were wondering if we were allowed to drive the robot "sideways" this year. Meaning we would still fit within the 28X38 limits, but instead of the trailer being attached to the 28" side, it would be attached to the 38" side, and the opposite side would be the front of our robot. I have seen robots drive like this in past years, but i was just wondering if there were any restrictions for this years game.

Our second question is about ball possession and robot limits. If a ball is in possession and being held by the robot, and the robot does not exceed the maximum dimensions, but a portion of the ball sticks outside the robot, and consequently exceeds the maximum dimensions, would this result in a penalty?

Thirdly, some of our team members have been reading threads posted on Chief Delphi talking about making a hover craft. We find a hovercraft impractical, however we were wondering if the use of fans to provide additional forwards backwards thrust would be allowed. It doesnt violate any rule i could find, and they would obviously be well protected and encased in a secure mesh enclosure. Personally i think the use of fans would allow for some more creativity in terms of the drive aspect or the robot (since the wheels are so limited this year), and it really is thinking outside the box.

Thanks for you time, and good luck everyone,
-Team 854

[GDC]

Regarding the first part of your question - there are no rules that prohibit this. The rules do not mandate a specific ROBOT orientation.

Regarding the second part of your question - Game Pieces are not considered part of the ROBOT, and thus extensions beyond the ROBOT volume (as defined by Rule <R11>) by Game Pieces, is not prohibited and would not be penalized.

Regarding the third part of your question - there are no rules prohibiting the use of forced air for propulsion or thrust, provided it is not a safety hazard and does not cause damage to the field.