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Official Q&A: VEX V5 Robotics Competition 2024-2025: High Stakes

Usage Guidelines All Questions

2258: V5RC Inspection Rules Clarification

9652Y
5-Nov-2024

<R26> I’m reaching out on behalf of our team regarding a technical inspection issue we encountered during last week’s V5RC competition.

One of our students designed a robot inspired by a YouTube video featuring team 229V, where the brain was placed inside the conveyor mechanism as the video shows. However, during inspection at the event, we were informed that this configuration was not allowed due to safety concerns – specifically, because the power button was obstructed, which raised concerns about safe access.

Our student noted that, since team 229V’s robot could compete, this brain placement might be acceptable in some regions. We are concerned about the possibility of having to redesign our robot’s brain placement for our regional events, only to find that other teams are permitted to use this configuration in Signature or other competitions. This discrepancy could create a sense of unfairness for teams preparing under different guidelines.

Could you please clarify whether this brain placement is indeed permissible under VEX Robotics rules? If this configuration is prohibited, we will adjust our design accordingly. However, if it is allowed, we would like to inform the local signature event partners to ensure consistent application of the rules.

Reference Robot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3O_d37-M9c0&ab_channel=Lukedoesrobotics (0:00-1:22)

R26  
Answered by committee
14-Nov-2024

This placement of the V5 Robot Brain does not appear to meet the requirements of rule <R26>, and should probably not pass inspection. That said, the final determination of whether a Robot meets the Robot rules can only be made by the Head Referee at an event.

R26 - Keep the power button accessible. The on/off button on the V5 Robot Brain must be accessible without moving or lifting the Robot. All screens and/or lights must also be easily visible by competition personnel to assist in diagnosing Robot problems.

Based on our interpretation of the image you provided, the Team would have to manipulate/move the Robot's conveyor (which may potentially be moving at the time) to access the on/off button on the V5 Robot Brain. Additionally, the screen appears to be entirely obscured by the conveyor.

We understand the potential frustration from an engineering / Robot packaging perspective, but this rule is in place for safety concerns. Teams and volunteers must be able to troubleshoot and easily turn off a Robot. We take safety rules with the utmost seriousness, and give most of them precedence over just about everything else. In a safety-related situation, volunteers must be able to safely and easily cut power to the V5 Robot Brain without having to understand the intricacies of the specific Robot and its operations.