2020-2021 FIRST Tech Challenge Season Workshop for Remote Events - Paul Smith Ohio Head Referee | FIRST Tech Challenge Game Manual 2 Release 1.2 ...
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2020-2021 FIRST Tech Challenge Season
Workshop for Remote Events
Paul Smith
Ohio Head Referee | FIRST Tech Challenge
Game Manual 2 Release 1.2 (10-27-2020)
ULTIMATE GOAL
Welcome to ULTIMATE GOAL!
Are you up to the challenge?
Agenda ULTIMATE GOAL Game Field Layout and Field Description Game Manual General Seasonal Changes Remote Event Field Personnel and Expectations ULTIMATE Goal Game Procedures and Scoring Game Manual 2 Rules Q&A
ULTIMATE GOAL Game Field Layout and Descriptions
Game Field Layout and Descriptions
(3’ x 4’)
(Part of the Launch Zone)
Playing Field Boundary – A taped (4’ x 10’)
line or a wall that marks the Area
where a Robot operates.
12” High Barrier
(Required only at Front of Field if
scoring in Drop Zone) The Area Outside
the Playing Field
boundary between
• Remote Play - Use ½ set game elements on 2/3 playing field width – Blue Tower Set Up is a Mirror Image the 12” barrier and
the audience
• A barrier can be constructed from a range of materials including an AndyMark perimeter, Do-It-Yourself wall, cardboard, etc
• A boundary element (tape, wall, markings, etc.) is part of the Area for the purposes of determining Inside and Outside.
• An object that has crossed into the upwards vertical extension of a defined Area’s boundary is Inside the Area.
• An object that is entirely within the upwards vertical extension of a defined Area’s boundary is Completely Inside the Area.
Game Field Layout and Descriptions
Tower & Power Shot Details
Note : Only 1 Tower used in remote Play
Tower Goal – A Playing Field element containing 3 vertically stacked
goals named the Low, Mid, and High Goals. In Remote Play - Teams may
score achievements in all 3 goal levels of the same tower.
Power Shot / Power Shot Target – A Game Element containing 3 Targets that can be
oriented forward or away from the from the interior of the Playing Field (fwd. =
initial, back=scored).
Game Field Layout and Descriptions
Scoring Element Details
12.125”
Wobble Goal Ring
(2 Total) (10 Total)
Game Field Layout and Descriptions
Navigation Targets
Three (3) unique images mounted on the Playing Field
Walls that Robots can use to navigate around the Playing
Field. For detailed locations please see the official Field
Setup Guide. Images are to be printed on standard letter
size paper, 8 1/2 inches x 11 inches.
Approximate Locations for Red Tower Field
Game Manual 1 & 2 – General Change Summary Remote Events
Game Manual Seasonal Changes Game Manual 1 – Remote Events • Ranking Points and Tie-Breaker Points are based on Match Scores (RP=Total Score, TBP1=Auto, TBP2=End Game) • In Remote Events: Awards and Advancement Opportunities are based on Team Total RP (and/or TBP) from 6 Matches • Control Award: Elevated in order of Advancement (Traditional and Remote Events) • No team supplied scoring element • No robot weight limit • No vacuum based mechanisms ( in addition no hydraulic or closed gas devices) • Game Element Max Launch = 5’ Height x 15’ Distance • The REV Control Hub and Expansion Hub are both permitted • Android Devices limited to Motorola Products • PS4 gamepads (2 types) are now allowed for use with the driver station • For Remote Events - Teams are highly recommended to conduct a Robot and Field self-inspection
Game Manual Seasonal Changes
Game Manual 2 – Remote Events
Seasonal Game – ULTIMATE Goal
Utilizes Half Set of Game Elements on 2/3 Width Field
Team Oriented (No Alliance Play)
No Yellow or Red Cards – Replaced by Major Scoring Penalties
Minor/Major Penalty Points (10 Minor / 30 Major)…………. Deducted from Team Score at end of Match
Launching of game elements allowed….and encouraged…..but only safely in one direction
10 ULTIMATE GOAL Game-Specific (GSXX) Rules Apply for Remote Events
Safety and General Rules Sections (modified for Remote Events)Field Personnel and Expectations Remote Events
Field Personnel – Remote Events
Remote Event
Human Player
Field Personnel
Scorer ..and maybe FTA, Photographer and Playing Field Crew
(if allowed by social distancing guidelines)
Drivers and Drive
Coach OR……….
Scores Match
Real-Time
Match Manager
Oversees official Matches
and Field Personnel
Field Personnel - may position themselves A Team – Mentors, supporters, and pre-college-aged
anywhere outside the Driver Station and students affiliated with an entity registered with FIRST
Human Player Station Front/Forward and for the remote competition.Remote Play Expectations
Team Expectations
Prior to the Remote Event Teams will:
• Build a thorough knowledge of the FIRST Tech Challenge Tournament Definitions and Season Game Rules
• Game Manual Part I - Remote Events (Latest Version)
• Game Manual Part II - Remote Events (Latest Version)
• Game Updates - FTC Forum “Answers – Game Rules” https://ftcforum.firstinspires.org/
During the Remote Event Period Teams will:
• Play the season game in their own facility/space using a red or blue 2/3 field setup and observing social distancing guidelines
• Select a MATCH MANAGER to oversee an official Match and Field Personnel (and perhaps watch for any Penalties)
• Select a MATCH SCORER who is fully knowledgeable of the game rules and can score the Official 2 ½ Minute Match real time
• Run, Record and Submit six (6) official Qualification Match scores to FIRST
• Teams will be responsible for honestly and accurately scoring their official matches
• Scoring may be done with FTC live software or on paper scoresheet as long as scores are uploaded during the event window
• Do not submit the best 6 Scores. Teams need to make decision BEFORE the run if it is OFFICIAL MATCH or PRACTICE RUN
• Video verification will not be required – GP and Honor systemULTIMATE GOAL Game Play
Pre-Match
Field Set-Up for Remote Play
Field personnel will…..
Targets Face Front at Set Up
• Place two (2) Wobble Goals on the end of the Start Lines
• One will be pre-loaded by the team on the robot ; the other one
will remain in the initial field setup position.
• Place a stack of four (4) rings on the Playing Field in the Starter Stack
Area (2” Gaffer Tape Square)
• Some or all of the rings may be removed later by field personnel
as a result of pre-match randomization
• Place a stack of three (3) rings outside the playing field for the Team to
pre-load on their robots during setup
• Place the three (3) remaining rings in the Low Goal of the Tower
• For use by the Human Player during Driver Controlled Period
• Move all three (3)
• Targets to the forward facing position
3
2
4
3Pre-Match
Robot Set Up
The Team selects their Robot’s starting location
• The Robot may be placed in any orientation, Inside the Playing Field Boundary.
• The Robot must touch or break the plane (if no barrier present) of the front facing Playing Field Boundary.
• The Robot must be Parked In one of the Start Lines.
A Robot is required to Pre-Load exactly one (1) of the Wobble Goals.
• The remaining Wobble Goal must stay in its setup position.
A Robot may Pre-Load up to three (3) Rings.
• Rings cannot be loaded onto the Wobble Goal.
• Rings that are not Pre-Loaded on the robot are placed into the Tower Low Goal for the Human Player to
use during the Driver-Controlled Period.
The Drive Team uses their Driver Station Android device to select an Op Mode
• Pressing the Driver Station Init button is not required unless it is needed for the Robot to satisfy the Match
start size constraint (18” max cube). Front
Any of the 3 Rings not pre-loaded
on robot are placed in low goalPre-Match
Field Randomization
Once the Team communicates they are ready, the Match Manager gives the set-up complete
signal:
• Drive Team must be standing in their Driver Box and the Human Player in the marked
area behind the Tower Goal.
• Drive Team may no longer touch their Robot until the conclusion of the Match
• Drive Team may not touch their Driver Station or controllers until the Autonomous
Period has ended, except to initialize and/or start their Autonomous program using the
Driver Station Android device screen. A Robot that requires Autonomous program
initialization to satisfy the Robot starting size constraint must be initialized before Match
Manager gives the set-up complete signal.
Field personnel will randomize the field into one of the three (3) configurations.
• The pre-placed stacks of Rings will be adjusted to either zero (0), one (1), or four (4),
corresponding to the selected Target Zone Goal (A, B, or C).
• Excess Rings will be dropped into the Tower Low Goal.
Top of Boundary Wall
(this may appear as an optical illusion for some people)Autonomous Period (30 seconds)
At START of Autonomous – Field Personnel begin countdown “Teams, 3-2-1-GO”
• The Team will start the 30-second Autonomous with a touch on their Driver Station Android device (“init” and/or “start” commands)
• Driver Station shall remain in hands-off location during the Autonomous Period so that it is evident that there is no human control of
Robots.
• Scorer records the robots achievements and notes any penalties with the following considerations:
• Drivers, Drive Coach remain in their Station
• Early Start of Match Period
• Late Start of 30-Second Auto Command on Android Device
• Early Stop – Through action with Driver Station or other Robot interaction
• Late Parking – Movement after end of buzzer sound
• Possession Limits
• Illegally Scored Rings and Power Shot Targets
At END of Autonomous – 8 Second TRANSITION Period
• Scoring system display will provide visual and audio cues for the Drive Team to pick up and prepare their Driver Stations
• Scorer will assess the field and finish recording any Scores and Penalties*
• Automatic countdown and announcement (ending 3-2-1-GO!)
• The Team presses their Driver Station start button to resume
Note: It is permissible for other field personnel to document penalties. These can all be entered by the scorer at the end of the match.Autonomous Period Scoring Tasks
Wobble Goal Delivery to Target Zone – 15 Pts each goal Robot Navigating – 5 Points each robot
C
B
No Rings A
Every Wobble Goal that is Completely In Target Zone A, B or C A Robot that is Parked at the End of the Period with any portion of
(defined by the initial starter stack size) earns fifteen (15) points. the Robot In the Launch Line earns five (5) points
Scored at End of Period Scored at End of Period
Power Shot Target – 15 Pts each target
Tower Goal Scoring
Each Ring that completely enters the Low,
Mid, or High Goal earns points Each Power Shot Target
changed from Forward to
Low Goal – 3 Points each Back position by direct
Ring may be Placed or Launched by Robot contact* with a launched
From anywhere inside the playing field ring from a robot
Mid Goal – 6 Points each completely in the launch
Launched from completely in launch zone zone earns fifteen (15)
points
High Goal – 12 Points each
Launched from completely in launch zone Scored at Rest
Scored Live (as it happens) after the Match
Period ends.
Goal color differentiation only applicable for traditional tournaments * This rule reflects change in Game Manual 2 - Rev 1.2Driver Controlled Period (2 minutes)
Two minutes of Driver Controlled Robot action (including a 30 second end game achievement period)
Field Personnel and Scorer continue to watch, warn and/or record any rule violations, including the following:
• Unsafe Robots and/or Playing Field Damage
• Early start
• Late parking at end of period
• Driver Coach operating Robot via Gamepad
• Robots Grasping “Game Elements” (excl. Scoring elements)
• Human Player Ring Handling
• Possession Limits
• Illegal Launching of Scoring Elements in or off the field
• Illegally Scored Rings and Power Shot Targets
Human Players are expected to:
• Return Rings to the Playing Field as quickly as practical via the Return Racks
• Reset Scored Power Shot Targets to an un-scored state prior to end game (10 second grace period after end game starts).
In Remote Events, it is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings but
they must be returned via the Return Rack on the side of the Tower GoalGame Scoring – Driver Controlled Period Tower Goal Scoring Same rules as Autonomous (except point value is lower) Each Ring that completely enters the Low, Mid, or High Goal earns points for the Team as follows: Low Goal – 2 Points each Ring is Placed or Launched from anywhere inside the playing field Mid Goal – 4 Points each Ring is launched from completely in launch zone High Goal – 6 Points each Rings is Launched from completely in launch zone Illegally Scored Rings earn points for the Team but also earn an offsetting Penalty … and control of rings may also apply In remote play, robots are allowed to Score Rings in any Tower Goal. To count as scored, they must not exit back out through the front of the Goal Stuck Rings that must be removed from Inside a Tower Goal by the Human Player count as Scored. The scorer must record the Ring score the instant it is Completely In the Tower Goal, and not in contact with a Robot or Human Player. (Cannot wait until the end as the ring must be returned) Rings Launched prior to the End of the Period are still eligible to be Scored
Game Scoring – End Game (last 30 seconds of
Driver Controlled Period)
Wobble Goal Delivery to Start Line – 5 Pts each goal Wobble Goal Delivery to Drop Zone – 20 Pts each goal
Eligible for any Wobble Goal Eligible for any Wobble Goal that is In a
that is In a Target Zone OR not Target Zone OR not in launch zone at
in launch zone at beginning of beginning of end game.
end game.
Each Wobble Goal Placed over a (12”
Each Wobble Goal IN a start high) barrier and Supported by the Drop
line at end of the match earns Zone at the End of the Match earns
five (5) points twenty (20) points.
Scored At End of Period Scored At End of Period
Wobble Goal Rings - 5 Pts each Power Shot Target – 15 Pts each
Each Ring Completely Supported by a
Wobble Goal or another Ring Completely Every Power Shot Target changed from
Forward to Back position by direct contact*
that is Supported by the Wobble Goal at with a launched ring from a Robot completely
the End of the Period earns five (5) points in the launch zone earns fifteen (15) points for
the Team.
Wobble Goal may be located anywhere
and in any orientation Human Player has a 10 second grace period
following the start of End Game to reset any Targets Scored at Rest
changed legally or illegally during earlier gameplay. after the Match
Scored At End of Period Period ends.
* This rule reflects change in Game Manual 2 - Rev 1.2
End Game tasks started and/or completed prior to the start of the End Game will earn zero (0) points for those tasks.
Note: A team may move wobble goals to eligible “starting positions” prior to start of End GameEnd of Match
Match ENDS when timer reaches 0:00 and game buzzer sounds
• Drive Team should make their best effort to stop gameplay immediately when the buzzer sounds. They should be motionless by the
time the game buzzer sound ends.
• Robots that are not Parked at the conclusion of the game sound receive a Minor or Major Penalty and the actions of the
Robot do not count towards their Score
• Scoring Elements that were Launched (unless disallowed by Game-Specific rules) before the End of the Period are eligible
to be counted as Scored
• Scoring Elements in contact with robots do not count
• Field Personnel will review and finalize the score
• Include any match penalties (this season…10 points Minor / 30 Points Major… deducted from score)
• The Match Manager will signal for the Drive Team to enter the Playing Field and retrieve their Robots
• The Playing Field reset crew will set up the Playing Field for the next Match.Game Scoring Summary Scored Live: The achievement is considered Scored the moment it is successfully completed Scored at End of the Period: The achievement’s Scoring status is determined based on the Robot or Scoring Element’s position at the End of the Period. Scored at Rest: The achievement is considered Scored based on the position of the Robot or Scoring Element when the entire field has come to rest after the Match Period ends.
Game Manual Definitions
Definitions Game Definitions Don’t always look to the game rules section of the manual for all the answers Definitions provide important insight to interpreting the game rules and points scoring Become familiar with these common definitions (section 4.4 of Game Manual 2) • Area • Control / Controlling…….Carrying, Herding, Holding, Launching • Delivery • In (Inside) / Completely In (Completely Inside) • Inadvertent Italicized words in the Game Manuals are • Inconsequential generally associated with a word or phrase • Launching found in the Definitions section of the Manual • Off • On / Completely On • Out / Outside • Park / Parked • Possess / Possessing • Pre-Load • Support / Supported / Completely Supported
Safety Rules to
Safety Rules
Unsafe Robot or Playing Field Damage
If at any time the Robot operation is deemed unsafe or has damaged the Playing Field the offending Robot may be Disabled.
Robot Extension Outside the Playing Field Boundary
For safety reasons, no portion of the Robot may contact anything Outside the Playing Field Boundary. A Major Penalty will be assessed
per occurrence. See the game definitions in section 4.4 for a complete description of the Playing Field Boundary
The intent of this rule is for safe or Inadvertent Robot extension Outside the Playing
Field Boundary. Intentional Robot extension Outside the Playing Field is not permitted,
except as allowed by Game-Specific rule
Safety Gear
Matches must not be played until all members of the Drive Team are wearing approved eye protection and shoes with closed-toes and
a closed-back.New ULTIMATE Goal Game Specific Rules to Remote Play
Game Specific Rules
Robot extension outside the Playing Field Boundary
A Robot may safely extend outside the Playing Field Boundary for Scoring Rings in the Low
Tower Goal (back Boundary) and during the End Game for Scoring a Wobble Goal in the
Drop Zone (front Boundary). All other extensions outside the Playing Field Boundary will be
handled per rule Safety Rule
Front Wall or 12” High Barrier
Playing Field Drop Zone
Floor
Low Tower Goal
Note: As currently written, extension outside the playing field
perimeter to place RINGS onto an already scored wobble goal is not
Playing Field Floor
allowed.
Back Boundary Line or WallGame Specific Rules
Human Player
Human Player Station
The Human Player may change position Inside the Human Player
Station while actively collecting Rings, placing Rings into the Team’s
Return Rack, and resetting Power Shot Targets
It is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player
Station to retrieve Rings.
Note: Human Player may ONLY return rings to the playing field via
the return rack.Game Specific Rules
Grasping Scoring Elements
Grasping Scoring Elements – A Robot may grasp Rings and Wobble
Goals
Note General Rule restricts grasping
or grabbing of any other field elementsGame Specific Rules
Human Player Ring Handling
The Human Player may introduce Rings Onto the Playing Field Floor with the constraints listed below. After Field Personnel issue warning,
subsequent violations of these constraints within the tournament result in a Minor Penalty per occurrence
a) A Human Player may not introduce Rings into the Playing Field before the start of the Driver-Controlled Period.
b) A Human Player may only introduce Rings into the Playing Field using the Return Rack. The Drive Team may not bring tools (except
noted for g) or devices to the Playing Field for handling Rings. Accommodations and exceptions for a Human Player with
disabilities or extenuating circumstances can be made but must take into consideration all safety, general, and Game-Specific
rules. .
c) Storing a supply of Rings by a Human Player is not allowed during the Driver-Controlled Period. Rings should be returned to the
Playing Field as quickly as practical. Penalties will be assessed per Ring with additional Penalties per Ring for every five seconds
the violation continues.
d) The Human Player may not extend Inside the Playing Field Boundary..
e) The Human Player is allowed to reach into the Tower Goal to retrieve stuck Rings when the Robot is at least 24 inches from the
Tower Goal.
f) The Human Player may hold more than one Ring at a time.
g) The Human Player may use a tool to remove Rings that are stuck in the Return Rack.
The Human player may not extend over the Playing Field Boundary to remove Scoring Element from either the Tower
Goal or Powershot. All scoring elements must be removed from the rear even if the robot is at a safe distance.Game Specific Rules
Drive Team Touching The Robot or Driver Station after Starter Stack Randomization
The Drive Team is not allowed to touch or interact with their Robot or Driver Station once Field Personnel have begun the randomization
process. If this occurs, a Minor Penalty will be assessed, and the Robot is not eligible to earn the Wobble Goal Delivery Score in the
Autonomous Period.
Wobble Goal Delivery to Target Zone
OR =
Every Wobble Goal that is Completely In Target
Zone A, B or C (defined by the initial starter
stack size) earns fifteen (15) points.Game Specific Rules
Control/Possession Limit of Scoring Elements - Rings
A Robot may Control or Possess a maximum of three (3) Rings. A Launched Ring is considered Controlled
until it makes contact with something else (e.g. Playing Field Floor, net, Tower Goal).
a) Plowing through any quantity of Rings is allowed but Herding or directing Rings above the allowed
limit to gain a strategic advantage (i.e., Scoring, accessibility) is not allowed. The Penalty for
Controlling or Possessing more than the allowed quantity is an immediate Minor Penalty for each
Ring above the limit plus an additional Minor Penalty per Ring in excess of the limit for each 5-
second interval that this situation continues. An additional Minor Penalty will be assessed for each
Ring that is Scored while a Robot Controls or Possesses more than the allowed quantity.
b) Controlling or Possessing a Ring by a Robot before the Ring has been Supported by the Playing
Field Floor will earn a Minor Penalty for each occurrence. Violation of this Rule will escalate to a
Major Penalty (upon reoccurrence during the event)
c) Rings Supported by a Wobble Goal are exempt from the Control/Possession Limit.
Rings that may become Possessed Inadvertently still earn a Penalty.
Teams should design their Robots to minimize the possibility of accidently Possessing a stray Ring.Game Specific Rules Control/Possession Limit of Scoring Elements – Wobble Goals A Robot may Control or Possess a maximum of one (1) Wobble Goal. Inconsequential Control of Wobble Goals above the limit is allowed. The Penalty for Controlling or Possessing more than the allowed quantity is an immediate Minor Penalty for each Wobble Goal above the limit plus an additional Minor Penalty per Wobble Goal for each five second interval that this situation continues. A Major Penalty will be assessed for each Wobble Goal in excess of the limit that is Scored while a Robot Controls or Possesses more than the allowed quantity. Game Manual Definition : An object is Controlled by a Robot if the object is following the movement of the Robot. Examples of Control / Controlling Carrying – Holding one or more Game Elements inside or outside of a Robot. Herding – Pushing or impelling one or more Game Elements to a desired location or direction that gains a strategic advantage. Holding – Trapping one or more Scoring Elements against a Game Element, Playing Field Wall, or Robot to shield or guard them.. Examples of Not Controlled Plowing – Inadvertent contact with Game Elements while in the path of the Robot moving about the Playing Field Deflecting – Inadvertent contact with a Launched Game Element as it bounces off the Playing Field or a Robot
Game Specific Rules
Launching of Game Elements
Rings – A Robot may Launch Rings during any Match Period. Any Ring Launched over a Boundary that is not the Tower Goal Boundary
will receive a Minor Penalty.
Wobble Goals – Launching Wobble Goals is not allowed. A Major Penalty will be assessed for violating this rule and the Wobble Goal will
not earn points for the period (Autonomous or Driver Controlled) when the violation occurred.
16’ max
(per G.M.1)
5’ max Tower Goal Boundary
(per G.M.1)
The intent of this rule is not to Penalize Inadvertent Launching
of Rings over the Tower while attempting to Score.
Field personnel will return rings that leave the field from approximately where they left
Human Player must return rings that leave the field via return rack.Game Specific Rules Autonomous Interference Does not Apply To Remote Play
Game Specific Rules
Wobble Goals Constraints
The Robot may not place Rings onto Wobble Goals except during the End Game.
A Minor Penalty will be assessed for each Ring
Note: As currently written per rule . Extension outside
the playing field perimeter to place rings onto an already
scored wobble goal is not allowed.
Placement allowed in
End Game OnlyGame Specific Rules Ring Interference Does not Apply To Remote Play
Game Specific Rules Tower Goals Interference Does not Apply To Remote Play
Specific Game Rules
Illegal Tower Goal Scoring
Rings that are launched to be scored into the middle or high tower goals
must be launched while the robot is completely in the launch zone.
An improperly launched ring should still be counted as scored, but the
team is also assessed a Major Penalty per Ring scored.
White launch Line is considered
part of the launch zone
Robot must be in launch zone to score points in
the Mid and High Tower Goals OnlySpecific Game Rules
Illegal Power Shot Scoring
Power Shot Targets may only be Scored by direct contact
with a Ring Launched by a Robot Completely In the Launch
Zone.
A Robot Outside the Launch Zone that Scores a Power Shot
Target by its actions (e.g. Launching a Ring, contact with the
Power Shot assembly, etc.) or Completely In the Launch
Zone and Scores a Power Shot Target through indirect
contact (e.g. Rings contacting Power Shot assembly, etc.) is
assessed a Major Penalty per Scored Power Shot Target.
White launch Line is considered
part of the launch zone
Robot must be in launch zone to score points for
moving a Power Shot Target from forward to back.
Rings must also directly* hit the targets otherwise a
Major Penalty will be assessed for each “indirectly
scored” target.
* This rule reflects change in Game Manual 2 - Rev 1.2Penalty Summary – Safety and
Specific Game Rules
Other Game Specific Rules have no penalty or are not applicable for remote playGeneral Games Rules (abbreviated)
(Apply Every Season with little change)
to Further Definitions
to Pre-Match
to Gameplay PenaltiesGeneral Game Rules – No Penalties
Autonomous to Driver-Controlled Period Transition
At the conclusion of the Autonomous Period, the Robot will remain in a hands-off state. Field Personnel will not enter the field and
will not touch the Robot on the field during the Autonomous to Driver-Controlled transition.
Drive Teams will have 5 seconds to pick up and prepare their Driver Station. After the 5 seconds, there will be a “3-2-1 go”
countdown and the Driver-Controlled Period of the Match will begin. (Total 8 second break).
Certifying the Score at the End of The Match
The final Score will be certified as quickly as possible. A change in state of a Game Element or Robot at the End of the Match after
its final Score is recorded will not change an already-recorded Score. No recounting of game elements.
Forcing an Opponent to Break a Rule – Does Not Apply in Remote Competition
Robot Manipulation of Scoring Elements
Scoring Elements that are Controlled or Possessed by a Robot are part of the Robot except when determining the location of the
Robot. Ie. The position of a Robot (“IN” “OUT” etc,) for purpose of scoring the Robot is not defined by any scoring element it may be
controlling/holding.
Robot or Scoring Elements In Two or More Scoring Areas
Robots or Scoring Elements that are In two or more Scoring Areas earn points only for the highest value achievement.
See Game Manual for Complete DescriptionsGeneral Game Rules – No Penalties
Disabled Robot Eligibility
Disabled Robot is not eligible to Score, earn points, or incur Penalties for the remainder of the Match
Playing Field Tolerances
Playing Field and Game Elements will start each Match with tolerances that may vary by as much as +/-1.0 inch (25.4 mm). Teams
must design their Robots accordingly.
Match Replay
Once started, Matches are not paused or replayed.
Inadvertent and Inconsequential – No penalty
Robot actions that violate a rule may be ruled to be Inconsequential and Inadvertent, and will not be Penalized
Scoring Elements in Contact with Robots
Scoring Elements in a Scoring Area that are in contact with or Controlled by a Robot for the Scoring Area have zero Score value.
Game-Specific rule(s) listed in section 4.6.3 that allow Robot contact with Scoring Elements take precedence over this general game
rule
See Game Manual for Complete DescriptionsGeneral Game Rules – Pre-Match
Drive Team
The Drive Team shall include up to two Drivers, one Coach, and one Human Player.
Playing Field Access
Drive Team members cannot enter the Playing Field for any reason other than to place or retrieve their Robot. A Minor Penalty is
assessed for violation of this rule.
If a Team feels the Playing Field is not set up correctly, Teams should notify Field
Personnel prior to the start of the Match.
Pre-Match Robot Placement
At the beginning of a Match, the Robot must be set up on the Playing Field according to section 4.5.1 Pre-Match. After the Robot is
set up on the Playing Field, the Drive Team must stand Inside the Alliance Station Team Station or Human Player Station.
For safety reasons, students should not sit in any station before or during a match
Robot Starting Volume
Before the start of a Match, the Robot in its starting location must not exceed a volume of 18 inches by 18 inches by 18 inches. A Pre-
Loaded Scoring Element may extend Outside the 18-inch cube volume constraint. Match play must not begin until the Robot’s starting
volume constraint is satisfied. After the start of a Match, the Robot may extend in any dimensionGeneral Game Rules – Pre-Match
Robot Setup/Alignment
The Drive Team may align its Robot during pre-Match setup if they do so with legal components that are part of the Robot and can be
reset to be within the 18-inch cube starting volume constraint. A single member of the Drive Team may also align the Robot by sight if
they are next to the Robot and their action does not delay the start of a Match. A Minor Penalty will be assessed to the Team for
violation of this rule.
Use of body parts or team members standing inside/outside field perimeter is not allowed.
Alliance Team Station and Human Player Stations
During a Match, the Drivers, Coach, and Human Player must remain In their Stations
a) The first instance of leaving the Station will result in a warning, with any following instances during the Match resulting in a Minor
Penalty. Leaving the Station for safety reasons will not result in a warning or Penalty
b) The Drive Team may be anywhere in their respective Alliance Team Station and Human Player Station. The Human Player
should not obstruct the view of Field Personnel scoring the Match..
It is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings.
Post-Match Removal of Robots
The Robot must be designed to permit easy removal of Game Elements from the Robot after the Match. The Robot should also be
able to be removed from the Playing Field without damaging the Playing Field. A Minor Penalty will be assessed for violations of
this rule.General Game Rules – Game Play
Starting Gameplay Early (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period)
A Robot that starts playing the game (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period) prior to the start of a Match Period receives a Minor
Penalty. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor Penalty if the early start results in an
advantage for the offending Team.
Late Start of the Autonomous Period
Teams participating in the Autonomous Period are expected to press the ”start with 30-second” button on their Driver Station Android
device and then place the Driver Station in a hands-off location.
A Minor Penalty is assessed for violating this rule. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor
Penalty if the late start results in an advantage for the offending Team.
Parked at End of the Period (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period)
Drive Teams should make their best effort to stop gameplay immediately when the End of the Period game sound begins. Robots
that are not Parked at the conclusion of the game sound receive a Minor Penalty and the actions of the Robot do not count towards
the Team’s Score. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor Penalty if the late stop results in a
competitive advantage (other than Scoring) for the offending Team
Robot Control During Autonomous Period
Early stopping of the Robot while running 30-second Autonomous code is not allowed, except for safety. A Major Penalty will be
assessed.General Game Rules – Game Play
Drive Team Contact with the Playing Field or Robot
During a Match, the Drive Team is prohibited from making contact with the Playing Field, the Robot, or any Game Element (except
for allowed Human Player activities). The first instance of contact will result in a warning, with any following instances resulting in a
Minor Penalty. Contact with the Playing Field, a Game Element, or a Robot for safety reasons will not result in a warning or Penalty.
Drive Team Coach Driver Station Control
Drive coaches are allowed to hold driver station but not control robot (for example, operating a Gamepad)
The first is a warning. Any following instances during the tournament will result in a Major Penalty.
Robots Deliberately Detaching Parts (excluding scoring elements)
Not permitted (even if detached part is tethered). Minor Penalty per occurrence.
Robots Grasping Game Elements
No “grabbing” or “grasping” of game or field elements……… other than allowed by “Scoring Elements”
The first instance will result in a warning. Any following violations during the tournament resulting in a Major Penalty.
Destruction, Damage, Tipping, Entanglement of Robots or Game Elements
Destruction, Damage, Tipping, etc. – Robot actions aimed at the destruction, damage, tipping over, or entanglement of Game
Elements are not in the spirit of the FIRST Tech Challenge and are not allowed unless permitted by Game-Specific rules.
Some tipping, entanglement, and damage may occur as a part of normal gameplay. If the tipping, entanglement, or damage is ruled
to be deliberate or chronic, the Team will receive a Major Penalty.General Game Rules – Game Play
Removing Game Elements from the Playing Field
A Robot may not deliberately remove Game Elements from the Playing Field during a Match. Game Elements that Inadvertently fall
Outside the Playing Field will be returned to the Playing Field by Field Personnel at the earliest safe and convenient opportunity at a
non-Scoring location approximately where it left the field. Game Elements removed from the Playing Field in an attempt to Score are
also not subject to this Penalty. A Team that deliberately removes Game Elements from the Playing Field will incur a Minor Penalty
per Game Element removed from the Playing Field.
Game-Specific rule that addresses the removal of specified Scoring Elements from the Playing Field for Ultimate Goal
Season take precedence over this general game rule.
Pinning, Trapping, or Blocking Robots – Rule does not apply in the remote competition
Illegal Usage of Game Elements
Robots may not deliberately use Game Elements to ease or amplify the difficulty of any Scoring or game activity. A Major Penalty will
be assessed for violations of this rule.
G30> Egregious Behavior – Rule does not apply in the remote competitionPenalty Summary Other General Rules have no penalty or are not applicable for remote play
FTC Game Q&A Forum
FTC Official Game Forum
The Game Q&A Forum https://ftcforum.firstinspires.org is a place where
teams receive official feedback about the game rules, robot rules, advancement
criteria, and judging.
If rules are in conflict with each other, the hierarchy is………..
1) Safety trumps all, see Game Manual 2 Rules
2) Q&A Forum rulings take precedence over information in the Game
Manuals)
3) Game Specific rules take precedence over General Rules
During the season, Team questions are answered by Game Experts between
Monday and Thursday (noon)
A running record of all Forum Q&A is published every Thursday PM in one large
document on the FTC season game site at
https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/ftc/game-and-season-info
Teams are highly encouraged to use the Q&A forum (instead of
local support). This will assure all teams receive consistent
interpretation of the rules… from the people who wrote them.FTC Official Game Forum
Game Forum FAQ… Some Recent Game Rule Clarifications
• During the Autonomous period, after the robot uses a ring to shoot down a power shot target, if that ring bounces back onto the
playing field, is the robot allowed to shoot that ring again? Answer: Yes
• During the Autonomous period, can the robot use rings from the Starter Stack to either shoot down Power Shot Targets for points or to
score in the Tower Goal Answer: Yes. Keep in mind that the Ring Control/Possession limits described in rule apply to all
periods of gameplay.
• Is it alright for a flywheel to continue on unpowered motion between the Autonomous and Driver-Controlled periods? Answer: Yes
• What will occur with the Rings that go outside the field perimeter either by robot launching, or when a match is played without a solid
side perimeter barrier Answer: Rule states that Rings that go outside the Playing Field Boundary will be returned to the Playing
Field by Field Personnel at the earliest safe and convenient opportunity at a non-Scoring location approximately where it left the field.
Rule allows the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings. The Human Player shall use the Return
Rack to introduce Rings into the Playing Field.Good Luck Teams!
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