<SG12>
Some rules change during the Endgame period. Robots that are partially or entirely within the infinite 3D vertical projection of the Midfield must make an effort to limit vertical expansion to the approximate starting height of the Robot. If a Head Referee sees a Robot within the Midfield that is clearly expanded past its approximate starting height, that Robot should receive a verbal warning and must either return to approximate starting height or exit the Midfield. A Robot should receive a Violation if it takes no action to either return to approximate starting height or exit the Midfield after a brief period of time. The length of this period of time is subject to Head Referee judgement within the context of the Match and the warned Robot’s actions (or lack thereof). Robots that attempt to end the Match in the Midfield should expect vigorous interactions from opposing Robots. When a Robot is contacting or engaging with the Midfield, or is in proximity to the Midfield, incidental damage that is caused by opposing Robots pushing, tipping, or becoming Entangled with them would not be considered a Violation of <GG14>. Intentional damage or dangerous mechanisms may still be considered a Violation of <S1> or <G1> at the Head Referee’s discretion. The intent behind the Endgame vertical expansion limit is to reduce the likelihood of tipped Robots due to expected Endgame interactions. Vigorous interactions involving taller Robots are much more likely to result in tipping compared to those involving shorter Robots. Enforcement of this rule should focus on vertically expanded Robot lifts, rather than small pop-up mechanisms that are typically set to expand at the start of the Match.
Game Rules Index