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Official Q&A: VEX IQ Robotics Competition 2025-2026: Mix & Match
2796: Clarification of Rule R9 - Keep the power button accessible
<R9> Rule <R9> states, in part, "The on/off button on the VEX IQ Robot Brain must be accessible without moving or lifting the Robot." The comment block goes on to further explain, in part, "In the event that a Robot needs to be quickly powered off - whether due to a malfunction, entanglement, or other safety concern - it is crucial that the power button remains easily accessible." Does "easily accessible" mean that the robot brain must be positioned in such a manner that the power button is not obstructed by any other part of the robot?
<G3> states to use common sense when applying the rules. What may make sense to one referee or inspector may not make sense to another.
Thanks for your question, Team 93558Z! We'll do our best to clarify the intent of that rule, but if you'd like to discuss it further you're welcome to email us at [email protected].
Does "easily accessible" mean that the robot brain must be positioned in such a manner that the power button is not obstructed by any other part of the robot?
The emphasis of rule <R9> is safety, as described in its blue box. The power button should be easily, quickly, and safely accessible if the Robot needs to be powered off during a Match. If a Head Referee could easily reach past an obstruction and turn off the Robot during a Match, it's probably not an issue. If a part needs to be removed for the Head Referee to reach the button, or the Robot has to be flipped over, the Robot doesn't meet the requirements of this rule.
We know there's some gray area in between those examples, and that's where <G3> comes in. Unfortunately, we're unable to provide blanket guidance that will apply to all Robots and designs, and the ultimate decision about whether or not a specific Robot meets the requirements of <R9> (or any other rule, for that matter) lies in the hands of the Robot inspectors and Head Referees at the event.