Chuck_Glick
07-15-2009, 05:27 PM
After looking through the rules and finding no clear violations, my question is would metal components of a robot be legal if they have been either: a) Chomed, or b) powder coated?
The reason for asking is some may argue that it is a modification of the metal, however the application of said chrome or powder coat would be strictly for looks.
John V-Neun
07-16-2009, 08:52 AM
After looking through the rules and finding no clear violations, my question is would metal components of a robot be legal if they have been either: a) Chomed, or b) powder coated?
The reason for asking is some may argue that it is a modification of the metal, however the application of said chrome or powder coat would be strictly for looks.
This would be allowable as long as the Chrome or Powdercoat is used only as a non-functional decoration (per <R7>C).
Whether or not a component is "non-functional" is ultimately up to the inspectors at your event.
If I were your inspector I might look at the following to determine "functionality":
Does the coating significantly modify the friction of the surface in some way that applies to the robot functionality or the way the robot interacts with it's environment?
Does the coating enhance the strength or hardness of a piece in a way that significantly enhances the robot functionality?
Again, these are judgment calls. Make sure you err on the safe side if you're worried about a zealous inspector calling your robot illegal!