R402       *BUMPER construction. BUMPERS must consist of the following:

A.      Padding – A minimum of 2 ¼ in. (~58 mm) depth of foam padding, at least 4 ½ in. (~114 mm) tall consisting of solid blocks, sheets, or stacked rods of one or more of the following materials:

                                                         i.      Pool noodles (hollow or solid) or backer rod

                                                       ii.      Solid polyethylene closed cell foam with density between 1.5 and 3 lb./ft.³ (~24 to 48 kg/m³)

                                                     iii.      Solid EVA closed cell foam with density between 2 and 6 lb./ft.³ (~32 to 96 kg/m³)

                                                     iv.      Foam floor tiles

Multiple types, shapes, and/or layers of foam may be used within a single BUMPER.

B.      Backing – A backer at least 4 ½ in. (~115 mm) tall which supports the padding (i.e. padding is not cantilevered other than in corners) and facilitates installation and removal of the BUMPER from the ROBOT (as noted in R410). Additional elements may be added to strengthen the backing, fill space between the BUMPER and ROBOT frame, or serve as part of the attachment system.

Figure 8 4 BUMPER backing supporting padding (cross section)

C.      Cover – Cloth (as noted in R411) which covers all outward, upward and downward facing surfaces of padding such that no padding is exposed to interaction with the FIELD or other ROBOTs.

D.      Fastening System – BUMPERS must attach to the ROBOT PERIMETER with a rigid fastening system to form a tight, robust connection to the main structure/frame (e.g. not attached with hook-and-loop tape, tape, or cable ties). The fastening system must be designed to withstand vigorous game play. All removable fasteners (e.g. bolts, locking pins, quick release pins, etc.) may be considered part of either the BUMPERS or ROBOT for determination of weight per R103 and R408.

Figure 8‑4 BUMPER Cross Section Example