Official Q&A: VEX IQ Robotics Competition 2024-2025: Rapid Relay

<SG4>

Dear VEX IQ Team,

I am writing to seek clarification regarding rule <SG4>, specifically point D, which states: "No Robot(s) may be in the Load Zone at the time the Ball is released by the Loader."

I would like to confirm the interpretation of the phrase "the time the Ball is released by the Loader." Does this refer to the moment the Ball leaves the Loader’s hand, or the moment the Ball makes contact with the Field?

This distinction is crucial for understanding gameplay. Allowing robots to enter the Load Zone as soon as the Ball leaves the Loader's hand significantly impacts the competition's challenge and fairness. For example, it reduces the unpredictability and skill required for robot design and operation, as robots can pick up balls in predictable patterns mid-air before they land. This may lead to less diversity in robot designs and strategies, diminishing the overall excitement and competitiveness of the event.

At the same time, the note in Q&A2052 contradicts the entire <SG4> clause, and even more so the picture and explanation: "Figure SG-4: This Robot is breaking the plane of the Loading Zone while the Ball is being entered. This Ball would need to be removed from the Loading Zone, and legally reintroduced."

In some matches, I have observed teams allowing robots to enter the Load Zone as soon as the Ball leaves the Loader’s hand (example in these videos: https://github.com/Aaron-Man/VEX-IQ/tree/32ec5530340f4e3b4474c72f89ac113db26b80ee/Game%20Rules).

In addition, I would like to understand how this rule aligns with rule 2052, which states: "If the human Loader is no longer contacting a Ball that is being (or has been) Loaded, it is legal for a Robot to enter the Load Zone."

These two statements seem contradictory. For example:

1. If the Loader has released the Ball but the Ball is still in the process of being Loaded (e.g., in mid-air or rolling toward the Field), does this mean the Robot can legally enter the Load Zone?

2. In Violation Note under <SG4>, it is mentioned: "Robot contact with the Loading Station while a Ball is being Loaded is considered an egregious Violation of point D for the Robot’s Team, and is an exception to all previous notes. Repeated occurrences by the same Robot, even if not Score Affecting, may escalate to a Major Violation for that Robot’s Team at the Head Referee’s discretion."

3. Figure SG-4 in the Game Manual suggests that even if the Loader has released the Ball but the Ball has not yet fully entered the Field (e.g., still inside the Ball chute), this would result in a Violation. It further states: "This Robot is breaking the plane of the Loading Zone while the Ball is being entered. This Ball would need to be removed from the Loading Zone and legally reintroduced."

Given these scenarios, I am seeking clarification on the following:

1. When precisely is it legal for a Robot to enter the Load Zone after a Ball is released by the Loader?
2. How should the rules be interpreted to ensure consistency in enforcement across all competitions?
3. Considering the importance of fairness and maintaining the competitive spirit of the game, is there any consideration for refining these rules to enhance the clarity and challenge of the event?

Thank you for addressing these questions. I look forward to your guidance and clarification to help ensure the integrity and excitement of the competition.