Maximum Bumper Length

[FRC2929]

Rule <R08-A> states that "BUMPERS must be built in segments, with a minimum length of six inches, and a maximum length that does not exceed the maximum horizontal dimension of the ROBOT."

In existing Q & A responses concerning how the length of a bumper is measured the reponse is "The length of a BUMPER is determined by the portion of the assembly the <that> includes all the required elements (pool noodle, fabric covering, and plywood backing) in the cross-section of the assembly. The length of this portion of the BUMPER assembly must be at least six inches."

If the length of a bumper cannot exceed the maximum horizontal dimention of the ROBOT, doesn't that prevent having a single bumper that spans the length of one side plus extends into the corner? Since at least one of the bumpers at a corner must extend to protect the corner per rule <R08-I>.

As an example, consider a square robot that is 20" on a side. There is no way to put a single bumper on each of the four sides that doesn't violate either the maximum lenght portion of rule <R08-A> or rule <R08-I>.

Is this a correct interpretation?

Thanks,
Team 2929

[GDC]

The conclusions are almost correct. The full BUMPER assembly (pool noodles, fabric covering, clamping angles, and plywood backing) can only be as long as the maximum horizontal length of the ROBOT. But soft parts of the BUMPER (i.e. the pool noodles and fabric covering, which by themselves do not form a complete BUMPER assembly) can extend beyond that length and protect the corner space.