When looking at our vision sensor while other robots are on our field we noticed that it picks up the red on the gears and would interfere with how we sense mobile goals. I know that if they are being used then they are non functional decoration but are they still legal if they interfere with the vision sensor?
The Q&A is closed for the 2021-2022 season. Any rule changes or clarifications pertaining to the 2022 VEX Robotics World Championship will be included in the April 5 Game Manual Update. Teams attending VEX Worlds who wish to pre-submit questions for the driver's meeting should have received a contact form via email; if not, please contact your REC Foundation Team Engagement Manager for more information.
Official Q&A: VRC 2021-2022: Tipping Point
1029: Red gears interfering with vision sensors
Answered by committee
Yes, red gears and other components sold by VEX are legal. Rule R13-d, quoted below, refers specifically to non-functional decorations which visually mimic field elements or otherwise directly interfere with an opponent's Vision Sensor, at the discretion of the Head Referee.
<R13> Decorations are allowed. Teams may add non-functional decorations, provided that they do not affect Robot performance in any significant way or affect the outcome of the Match. These decorations must be in the spirit of the competition. Inspectors will have final say in what is considered “non-functional”. Unless otherwise specified below, non-functional decorations are governed by all standard Robot rules.
d. Decorations that visually mimic field elements, or could otherwise interfere with an opponent’s Vision Sensor, are considered functional and are not permitted. This includes lights, such as the VEX Flashlight. The Inspector and Head Referee will make the final decision on whether a given decoration or mechanism violates this rule.
It is impossible to avoid all elements of ambient / environmental visual interference, and this is an expected part of the challenge associated with using advanced sensors. This could include (but is not limited to) things like multi-colored VEX parts, team shirts, varying lighting conditions in different venues, etc.