<G8>

Drivers drive your Robot, and stay in the Driver Station. During a Match, Robots may only be operated by that Team’s Drivers and/or software running on the Robot’s control system. Drivers must remain in their Driver Station, except when legally interacting with their Robot per <G10>. Drive Team Members are prohibited from any of the following actions during a Match:
  • Bringing/using any sort of communication devices into the Driver Station, including wireless headphones of any kind, even if powered off. Non-headphone devices with communication features turned off (e.g., a phone in airplane mode) are allowed.
  • Standing on any sort of object during a Match, regardless of whether the Field is on the floor or elevated.
  • Bringing/using additional materials to simplify the game challenge during a Match.
    • Point C is intended to refer to non-Robot-related items that directly influence gameplay, such as using a ramp to assist with the Loading Station. Provided no other rules are violated, and the items do not pose any safety or field damage risks, the following examples are not considered Violations of <G8>:
  • Materials used before or after a Match, such as a pre-Match alignment aid, or a carrying case for Robots/Controllers
  • Strategic aids, such as a whiteboard or clipboard
  • Earplugs, gloves, or other personal accessories
    • Note: Drive Team Members are the only Team members that are allowed to be in the Driver Station during a Match. Adults (other than event staff) are not permitted to be in the Driver Station during a Match. Note 2: Loaders are not restricted to the Driver Station, and may move around the Field freely.
    Violation Notes: Major Violations of this rule are not required to be Score Affecting, and could invoke Violations of other rules, such as <G1>, <G2>, or <G11>.