Extentions of bumper backing

[FRC2929]

Rule <R08-N> states (in part) "Hard" parts of the BUMPER (i.e. plywood backing, fastening system, and clamping angles) may extend up to a maximum of one inch beyond the BUMPER PERIMETER.

Rule <R08-M> states The entire length of the BUMPER backing must be supported by the structure/frame of the ROBOT (i.e. the backing material must not be in "free space" between or beyond attachment points) (see Figure 8-3).

Rule <R08-O> states The BUMPER backing must not extend beyond the "edge" of the ROBOT.


Rule <R08-N> appears to me to be contradictory to rules <R08-M> and <R08-O>. I cannot conceive of a means by which to perform the allowed operation of Rule <R08-N> that doesn't violate <R08-M> or <R08-O>.

It is my belief that the definition of BUMPER PERIMETER is the same as saying the "edge" of the ROBOT. Is that a correct interpretation?

Could you please provide clarification to this apparent contradiction and an example of what WOULD be allowed by <R08-N>? Thanks.

[GDC]

Rule <R08-N> permits the BUMPERS to be attached to the ROBOT such that the "back" of the BUMPER is coincident with the BUMPER PERIMETER. This clause of the rule allows the bumper backing (specified as 3/4 inch plywood) to extend 3/4 inch out from the ROBOT in a direction normal to the BUMPER PERIMETER (as measured at the mid-point of any straight BUMPER PERIMETER segment). The head or end of any fasteners used to attach the BUMPERS may then extend a fraction of an inch beyond that and still remain within the allowances of this clause of the rule.