Q 1) Can use of Diesel /Petrol engine is permitted?
Ans: Please refer 12.3 page 26 of Theme and Rules.

Q 2) Can communication between automatic & manual, automatic to collector, collector to manual is permitted ?
Ans: Please refer 6.16 to 6.20 page 21 of Theme and Rules.

Q 3) About dimensions of all robots?
Ans: Please refer 10.1 to 10.7.4 page 24-25 of Theme and Rules.

Q 4) Do we have a procedure to follow in order to have a choice for our arena (RED or BLUE) so that we can design our robot according to the directions required by that arena?
Ans: The choice of RED or BLUE is random, but once allotted it will not change for that round, but may or may not change during next game round.

Q 5) What is the meaning of the term "BACKUP ITEMS"?
Ans: Please refer 10.4.4 page 24 of Theme and Rules.

Q 6) The rule mentions max limitation is 24V. Does that mean I can use 3 (or more) 12V batteries in parallel, because the potential difference still remains 12V then or the consideration is taken by adding all the sources used irrespective of the method in which they are connected.
Ans: Please refer 10.3 and 10.4 page 24 of Theme and Rules.

Q 7) We wish to participate in the upcoming ROBOCON 2012, Hong Kong. For that we require the game related articles such as basket, buns, token etc. Kindly tell us the procedure to obtain these articles.
Ans: For samples of Token, Token Stand , Tunnel, Bun Tower, Basket, Top Bun, Middle Bun and Lowest Bun contact the following vendor

                                        Shyam S. P.
                                        GANGA SHANKAR ENTERPRISES
                                        BGA 1/5 G Block
                                        MIDC Bhosari, Pune 411 026,
                                        gangashankarent@gmail.com
                                        +919822652556 , +919970199381

Q 8) Can manual bottom touch the floor the island
Ans. Please refer 6.3 (Page No. 20) of theme and rules.

Q 9) The rule for collector robot is as follows: The collector robot can expand, stretch or extend within a cylinder of 2M in diameter considered from top view. My query about collector robot: Our collector robot is expanding upto 1.3m horizontally. after horizontal expansion collector robot is turning at its centre about 180 degree. Is it violating the above rule? reply as early as possible.
Ans: Please refer 6.10 (Page No. 21) of theme and rules.

Q 10) The *rule 6.14* Manual Robot Operator cannot directly drive any mechanical motions. All the actions of the robots must be driven by robotic means. the rule10.7.2 The operator is not allowed to actuate or control the movement of Manual Robot by mechanical means except for steering. So, the problem was ,
     · Can we use directly a Steering or Handle to rotate the front wheels?
     · Can we use an accelerator operated by foot of the operator?
     · Can we use mechanical brakes?
Ans. Please refer 6.14 (Page No. 21) and 10.7.2 (Page No. 25) of theme and rules.

Q 11) I have a query regarding the manual bot, that is the weight limitation 25 kg is with or without the battery installed.
Ans. Please refer 10.4.1 to 10.4.4 (Page No. 25), The total weight of all robots (Manual Robot must not exceed 25kg.) must not exceed 50kg. which includes 3 robots, controller and installed battery.

Q 12) Automatic Robot of each team is allowed to touch only one of the two Baskets in the Common Zone and a team can only pick up the same Basket which they have touched before and if it is available." What happens if one team touches a basket first, but the opposing team is able to pick it up? Does the team have the option of picking up the second basket. Please help us understand.
Ans. Please refer 3.7 (Page 15) and 4.4.2 (Page 19) of theme and rules.

Q 13) As per 3.18 Collector Robot can accept the command from Manual Robot when Manual Robot picks up Collector Robot and is in physical contact with Collector Robot. While in physical contact, Manual Robot is allowed to communicate with Collector Robot by non-RF communication methods.

Questions:
      1. What do you mean by non -RF Communication ?
      2. Is wired connection allowed only when both are in contact?
Ans:
1) The communication shall not be by Radio Frequency waves as an example of non RF refer 12.4 (page No. 26 ).
2) Please refer 10.5.3, 10.6.3,10.7.4, 12.1 and 12.2 (Page No25 and 26).

Q 14) As per the game rule, 3.5 Arriving at the Tunnel, Manual Robot inserts the Token into the Token Box. No part of Manual Robot is allowed to touch the Token Box. Manual Robot is not allowed to start going through the Tunnel before inserting a Token into the Token Box for the first time to cross the Tunnel Is it allowed that, a part of manual robot go into tunnel before putting token in token box. (The part is not in physically contact with any surface of tunnel. It is inside the tunnel in Air)? Manual robot is putting token but its one of the part is in tunnel.
Ans: It is not allowed as per 3.5 (No part of Manual Robot is allowed to touch the Token Box. Manual Robot is not allowed to start going through the Tunnel before inserting a Token into the Token Box).

Q 15) I would like to know whether we can leave any part of our robot behind during our run. As an example we leave hydraulic lifting mechanism attached with the collector robot behind at loading area 3 after the collector robot has reached the bun tower, is it legal in this competition ?
Ans: Please refer 10.5.3, 10.6.3 and 10.7.4. (Page No. 25)

Q 16) We are on the process of designing of our manual and automatic robots ,but we are struck with one technical query.
a)can we use haptic arm in our manual robot?
b)can we use image processors in collector robots?
Ans:
a) Yes, subjected to you adhere to clauses 6.2, 6.3, 6.14 and 10.7.2 of the rule book.
b) Yes, subjected to you adhere to clauses 6.17, 6.18 and 6.19 of the rule book.

Q 17) Is it allowed to hang some part of manual robot in the tunnel while putting token in the token box? Robot is not going through the tunnel.
Ans: No, as any part attatched to Manual Robot is a integral part of Robot. (Refer 3.5, 10.7.4)

Q 18) Automatic robot has successfully placed collector robot in loading area 3 but manual robot has failed to pick up collector robot from loading area 3 .then according to 4.5.1 is it necessary for automatic robot to restart together with collector robot from s2?
Ans: As automatic Robot has placed collector robot successfully, Please refer 4.7.1.

Q 19)
a) Once the collector robot is placed on the island after being carried from loading area 3 by manual robot, a sensor on the collector bot senses the presence of the manual robot, ( at that time the manual robot is not in contact with collector robot and collector robot is on the island ), Does this come under communication ?
Ans: Yes, Refer 6.17, 6.18 and 6.19
(Note: Just sensing may not but, controls / actions initiated directly or indirectly after the bot senses the presence of the manual robot lead to communication.)

b) Can the manual robot control the collector robot when manual robot and collector robot are in physical contact and collector robot is not in contact with the arena using non-rf communication, for instance when we press a switch on the manual robot, a motor on the collector robot rotates and the motor stops only when the switch on the manual robot is off.
Ans: No, Please refer 6.18 and 10.6.1.

c) With reference to 6.3 page 20, Can Manual robot touch the Island (side walls of the island) , can it touch the Loading area 3 (side walls of the loading area 3 ), and can it touch the boundary walls of the arena ?
Ans: Yes, It can touch the side wall from outside (loading area 3), and from inside for (arena) but ensure that the clauses 6.3 and 12.2 of the rule book are adhered.

d) With reference to 6.9 page 21, Automatic robot cannot touch the game field in Loading area 1,2,3, manual robot zone, common zone and the island .Can the automatic robot touch the walls ( walls separating the automatic robot zone and manual robot zone) in other than these zones ?
Ans: Yes, the automatic robot can touch the inside of the walls of automatic zone, further refer 6.9 and 12.2.

e) With reference to 6.10 page 21, It was not mentioned whether the automatic robot can extend over the airspace outside the arena. Can the automatic robot extend over the air space outside the arena ?
Ans: No, Please refer 6.16.

f) Can the collector robot extend into the air space of automatic robot zone when being carried by the manual robot, and can it extend into the air space of manual robot zone when being carried by the automatic robot.
Ans: Yes, The relevant guidelines of automatic robot shall be applied to collector robot i.e. Please refer 6.10 and 16.1.

g) With reference to 6.17 and 6.18 page 21, Automatic Robot can communicate with collector Robot by non-radio signal. Manual robot is allowed to switch on the Collector Robot while they are in physical contact. While which two robots are in contact (automatic and collector robots or manual robot and collector robots) ?
Ans: Manual Machine cannot communicate with automatic robot, Please refer 6.19.

h) Can we switch on the collector robot after manual robot places it on the automatic robot in loading area 1 ?
Ans: No, Please refer 3.12 and 3.17.

i) During restart of the robot from the restarting zones, can any kind of structural changes in the robot be made without adding or removing components to the robot ?
Ans: No, Please refer10.5.3, 10.6.3, 10.7.4 and 16.1.

j) After taking the collector bot from loading area 3 and placing it on the Island, Can the manual robot 'switch on' the collector robot ?
Ans: Yes, Please refer 3.17.

Q 20) It is mentioned in Rule 3.17 that the action of collector robot must be self started or can be started by manual or automatic robot. But in case of retry when we are restarting the collector robot from Loading area 2, can a team member start it...or in that case also it has to be started by manual/automatic/self started.
Ans: No, team member cannot start it, Please refer 3.17.

Q 21)
a) We want to inquire if the collector robot which has to collect the buns should be autonomous or manual.
b) If the collector robot is to be autonomous then can we use image processing for the same?
Ans:
a) Please refer 10.6.1.
b) Yes, but ensure that you adhere to the clauses 6.17, 6.18 and 6.19 of the rule book.

Q 22) When collector robot is successfully detached from manual robot and placed on automatic robot, and a retry of auto robot is taken, Can the operator touch the collector robot and change it's orientation. Is it allowed to "switch on" the collector robot after placing it on the automatic robot ?
Ans: No, Please refer 3.12, 4.3.1, 4.3.2 and 16.1.

Q 23) With reference to rule 4.6 , If the collector robot needs a retry from loading area 2 , is it allowed to start at any position on loading area 2 ?
Ans: Yes, Please refer 4.6.1 and 16.1.

Q 24) As we are going forward towards the preparation for robocon event ,we have faced a new problem regarding technical field, as the arena which is prepared for the robocon event ,the blue arena and red arena are the mirror image of each other ,due to this we are facing problem regarding the programming of the robots,s o our question is how do we deal with this problem .Because at a time it is difficult to change the computer program over there.
Ans: It is a constraint in the game required to be addressed by your programming or You can take care by relevant structural modifications to suit the side, during one minute that is given for setting of robots before the game starts.

Q 25) A 12V DC battery when overcharged gives a voltage of around 13V, when two such batteries are used in series net voltage comes out to be around 25-26 V , Is this allowed for the robots ?
Ans: No, please refer 16.2 and 16.3 of the rule book. As overcharging a battery is against safety.

Q 26) I just want to ask that who can become instructor of the team. Can a post graduate student become a Instructor, if college Director/Principal gives the permission. Our college has never participated in Robocon.
Ans: Yes, as long he belong to same college, but he can not participate in the match (refer clause 15.2)

Q 27) After manual robot successfully crosses the tunnel, it proceeds to lift the collector robot from its start zone. Our question is that can we lift the collector robot from the other side of the obstacle walls (nearer to automatic start zone) such that part of manual robot is above the obstacle and the collector robot is then lifted above the walls (and the obstacle wall is not damaged in any way). Is this allowed?
Ans: Yes, possible without causing damage to the game field.

Q 28) After reading the rulebook all over again, and the FAQ newly posted on roboconindia.com, we've got a query regarding the restart of the collector robot. Rule 3.17 says collector robot needs to be self started or started using manual/automatic robots using non-RF signal. Rule 3.17 is valid only for the initial start. Rule 4.6 under restarting points mentions that if collector is unloaded at L2 and it successfully stands on the island, then we can take a retry if needed, in which collector may be placed at any position on L2. But according to the answer to the FAQ No. 20, you've said team member cannot switch it on in that case. Then how do we take retry of collector robot if neither manual nor automatic robot nor team member can touch it to start it at L2? How do we ever switch on the collector robot if a retry is needed as per rule 4.6?
Ans: The collector robot shall be initialized to its original settings and started all again as per clause 3.17 after retry.

Q 29) We want the sample pieces of flooring material used in game field.
Ans: Please refer the requirement of the sample along with color and dimensional details to In charge Game Field ROBOCON 2012 to the email ID “nmurali852@yahoo.com”along with address details.

Q 30) In one of my old faq ( 19.d) regarding the manual robot touching the side walls of island and arena and loading area 3 . It was said that the manual robot can touch inside of the arena without causing damage to the arena, So can we take that as manual robot can touch the side walls of the island without damaging the arena.
Ans: YES, possible without causing damage to the game field.

Q 31) If Manual robot picks up a collector robot and collector is switched on by a single button and after that manual operator will press a button and it will send a wireless non radio signal to collector robot, after receiving that signal collector will perform a particular task, in this case i am not continuously pressing that switch but sending different signals by a single press of switches. So is this working condition valid? Because, i am not using radio signals and also not continuously operating different motors on collector robot.
Ans: Yes, It is possible when the manual robot picks up the collector robot and they are in physical contact. (refer 3.17, 3.18)

Q 32) Is it OK if MANUAL robot touches basket while putting lower level buns in the basket during last minute?
Ans: No, manual robot cannot touch the basket (Refer 3.14)

Q 33) Can we change the position of components (for instance batteries) from one position to another while taking a restart of a robot.
Ans: Yes, but it shall not lead to game strategy changes. (Ref Clause 16.1)

Q 34) In one of my old faq ( 19.d) regarding the manual robot touching the side walls of island and arena and loading area 3 . It was said that the manual robot can touch inside of the arena without causing damage to the arena, So can we take that as manual robot can touch the side walls of the island without damaging the arena.
Ans: YES, possible without causing damage to the game field.

Q 35) According to the problem statement it is given manual robot can communicate with the collector robot only when they are in contact and it the FAQ (19.j) it was said manual robot can switch on the collector robot after placing it on the island.
1. How do you differentiate 'swtich on' to communication.?
2. Can I use my communication to switch on the collector robot.?
Ans: 1. Manual robot can switch on a button to start the collector robot to perform the tasks automatically, after it is started. (Refer Clause – 3.17 and 10.6.1),
2. However collector robot can be commanded by manual robot by a non-RF communication when they are in physical contact (refer 3.18)

Q 36) Can Manual robot enter into Collector robot Starting zone ? (not just the air space but onto the zone ) also it was given in the problem statement that collector robot starting zone is in the Manual robot zone.
Ans: Yes, when loading. Starting zone is located in manual zone but not a part of manual zone. Refer Clause 2.2 which states “The game field consists of Manual Robot Zone, Automatic Robot Zone, Starting Points, Restarting Points, Loading Areas, Common Zone and an Island”.

Q 37) Will the referee give the last minute start indication so that manual robot can pick up buns from the lower level ?
Ans: Yes, the referee shall give indication at start of last one minute.

Q 38) What is meant by the Game field? The horizontal part or the vertical wall also (e.g. in case of common zone automatic robot can't touch the common zone is this mean that it can touch the vertical wall of common zone?)
Ans: The entire arena is called a game filed. The horizontal and vertical walls are all part of Game filed. The automatic robot can touch the vertical wall of common zone from inner side.

Q 39) Can manual robot place the basket on the island other than basket deposition zone and collector robot put the buns in the basket such that no robot is in contact with the basket while putting buns in the basket after putting the bun from the bottom and middle layer in the basket. Can manual robot put the basket in the basket deposition zone ?
Ans: No, Please refer 3.14 and 3.19 of rule book.

Q 40) 40 Is collector robot allowed to touch the bun tower?
Ans:No, (refer clause 6.11 for manual robot) Collector Robot should not use any part of the Tower as mechanical support. Collector Robot may momentarily touch the Lowest Layer of the Bun Tower Top Layer and the Middle Layer during picking up the Buns.

Q 41) Can manual robot align the collector robot while collector robot is on island before going for the top most layer bun?
Ans:Yes, however refer to the guide lines given in clause 3.18 of the rule book.

Q 42) Is it a violation if manual robot touches the collector robot while putting the buns from the lower layer during the last minute of the game while collector robot performing its own task of putting the buns of lower and middle layer independently?
Ans:No, its not a violation after one bun from lower layer and one from the middle layer have been put into the basket.

Q 43) Can manual robot bring the collector robot in the space above manual zone for dropping the top layer bun in the basket ?
Ans:Yes, refer 6.3 (Part of Manual Robot can extend over the space above Automatic Robot Starting Point (A), the Loading Area 3 and the space above the Island.

Q 44) Is manual robot cross the hurdle instead of going in zig-zag way without damaging the arena ?
Ans:No, please refer clause 3.10 of the rule book.

Q 45) In case of tie brake for basket in common zone both the autonomous bot should start at a same time with signal from referee or after any way one who take first retry can first leave ?
Ans:Yes, both the autonomous robots shall make compulsory retry. (refer clause 4.4.2)

Q 46) Is it allowed to rearrange the collector robot when manual robot place the collector robot on the autonomous robot and manual robot completely separated from the collector (no physical contact between collector and manual)calling this as a retry?? (similar to condition if autonomous robot fail to cross the bridge with collector robot on the top of it and if retry is needed can we rearrange the collector robot on autonomous robot and start them together at point A )
Ans:No, It is not possible to rearrange the collector robot when manual robot place the collector robot on the autonomous robot. After retry, the collector robot shall be placed in the initial original location and direction.

Q 47) Can automatic robot place the basket on the automatic robot zone momentarily and pick it up again to deposit it in the manual zone?
Ans:Yes, however the task of putting the Basket in Manual Robot Zone will be considered as “Completed” when the Basket is put in Manual Robot Zone and is standing on its own on its bottom base.

Q 48) Is it a violation if manual robot touches the tunnel while putting the token in the token stand such that no part of robot is in the space inside the tunnel the robot touches the tunnel from the token deposition side?
Ans:No, it’s not a violation if it is touching the tunnel from outside and not damaging the tunnel.

Q 49) Is it necessary that automatic robot should be completely in zone A while placing the collector robot on the automatic robot (in statement it is return that manual robot can extend over zone A no rule for the automatic robot)
Ans:No, However manual robot can extend only over automatic starting zone (refer 3.11, 4.4.3 and 4.4.4).

Q 50) What is mean by collector robot successfully stand on island ?? if collector robot climb the step from L2 and only minor part (say caster) stuck to the step and if retry is needed for collector robot. Which will be the retry point L2 or S2 ?
Ans:Complete collector robot shall be on island standing on its own. In case the caster is stuck to the step (Part is extending out of loading area L2) then the start for retry is S2.

Q 51) Before going for the top bun atleast one bun from each layer is required to be put in the basket. Is it necessary that both the buns should be deposited by collector robot ?? or is it allowed that manual robot put the bun from the lower level and collector robot put bun from the middle layer and then go for the top layer bun ?
Ans:Yes, for first two minute of the game, however the manual robot can put only from the lower most layer during the last one minute of the game.

Q 52) In case of collector robot, if collector robot climb the step stand successfully on island and if retry is needed. As mention in problem statement retry point is L2 .Can collector operator change the dimension to original dimension (eg :orientation, rotational arm height) required for the step climbing ?? and then start collector robot by one push button it L2 ?
Ans:No, the collector robot shall be positioned to its original location and direction.

Q 53) After taking a retry of automatic robot or a collector robot is it allowed to rearrange position of grippers and sliders to achieve required orientation?
Ans:If the grippers of the robots are disturbed, they can be put their original locations or position, but their orientations cannot be changed to do some activity which was supposed to be done by robot.

Q 54) Its not at all possible to SELF restart collector robot on loading area L2.When restart is needed on island, Is it OK if collector operator just presses one switch of it on loading area L2 to start collector robot?
Ans:Plz refer FAQ 28, The collector robot shall be initialized to its original settings and started all again as per clause 3.17 after retry/restart.

Q 55) We are participating in ROBOCON INDIA 2012. We wanted to ask you that can we use a mini laptop i.e Intel Atom Processor for On Board Processing in the two autonomous robots?
Ans:Yes, it is possible, but note that the laptop shall be connected robot by wired means and laptop shall be treated as a part of robot and no wire less connections shall be used for any communication. (Any violation of the rule shall be referred vide clause 16.1)

Q 56) It is mentioned in rulebook that while placing collector robot over autonomous robot the manual robot can extend its arms only above the start zone of autonomous robot and contact surface of the manual robot should be inside loading area 1, while unloading the collector robot A) Is any part of collector robot picked up by manual robot allowed to stay in the air space above the autonomus zone except the start zone, while manual robot zone is not completely in the loading area?
Ans:Yes, the part of the collector robot can be over the automatic robot start zone when the manual robot is not completely in loading area during the process of loading.

Q 57) Once the contact surface of manual robot is completely present in the loading area 1 , can any part of manual robot extend over the autonomous zone except the start zone, if it hasn't started unloading the collector robot?
Ans:No, no part of manual robot extend beyond starting zone of autonomous robot.

Q 58) When the contact surface of manual robot is completely present in loading area1 , can any part of collector robot picked up by manual robot be present above any other portion of autonomous zone except the start zone?
Ans:No, no part of manual robot extend beyond starting zone of autonomous robot.

Q 59) It is mentioned in safety regulations that manual robot operator MUST be seated on the robot. What does "seated" mean? Does it mean "to ride completely" on the robot, or must be "in seating position"? If no, can the operator "stand" on the robot with his feet completely loaded on the robot chassis? If yes, how would the seating position posture (eg. bharatiya baithak / sitting in chair / leaning against a support / like a F1 car) be defined with respect to the robot as allowed or not allowed?
Ans:Manual operator shall be seated position, seating position is at the teams discretion (both the positions mentioned by you are acceptable with a caution. Refer to 13.1 and 13.2 for details). But however operator can not stand.

Q 60) Does the team have to bring their own set of Helmet and goggles to be worn by the manual robot operator or will it be made available as a part of contest tools?
Ans:The Helmet will be provided by the host team. However the teams shall bring their own Goggles. It will not be made available as a part of contest tools.

Q 61)If the manual robot operator uses an accessory (say: a set of earphones) completely attached to his clothes, should it be considered in the weight of the robot? Is the operator permitted to wear any type of clothing/accessories (with respect to weight and seasonal / functional utility)?
Ans:If the earphones are a part of robot, then they shall be connected to manual robot and will be treated as a part of robot and will be considered in the weight of the Robot. Clothes of the operator are not considered in the weight, but however this freedom shall be not misused in the completion (we will refer to 16.1 in case any doubt).

Q 62) It is said that, we cannot go for top bun unless 1 bun from lowest layer and one from middle layer is put in the basket. Is it allowed if the lower bun is put by manual robot and middle layer bun is put by collector robot? And after this can we directly attempt for the top bun ?
Ans:No, it is not possible during the first two minutes of the Game. However possible during the last one minute of the game.

Q 63) When the manual robot places the collector robot on autonomous robot, will the referee give the indication that collector has been placed successfully on auto and now autonomous robot can start?
Ans:Yes, the referee will give the whistle / Indication after the collector robot is successfully placed on the autonomous robot after which the autonomous machine shall be started.

Q 64) Is an operator allowed to switch on the collector robot after a restart at loading Area 2?
Ans:No, Manual operator cannot start the collector robot, but however it can be initialized before the restart attempt.

Q 65) When manual robot lifts the collector robot for top bun, is it allowed that collector is extended in the air space of manual robot zone?
Ans:Yes, the collector robot can extend in the air space above manual robot when the manual robot has lifted the collector robot to pick up the top bun.

Q 66) In case of Tie Brake for Basket, autonomous robot of both team should start at a same time with the signal from referee ?
Ans:Yes, In case of a tie brake both the team will to proceed for restart at the same time after the whistle / signal from the referee. However there will be no separate whistle for restart.

Q 67) In case of Tie Brake for Basket autonomous robot of both team should start at a same time with the signal from referee ? or can start independent of each other with signal from referee i.e one who bring robot first can start first?
Ans:Yes, The team reaching first will restart first.

Q 68) Is it allowed that manual robot put buns from lower layer during last minute and collector robot from middle layer and then go for top bun ? (collector robot will not put any buns from lower layer still go for top layer bun?)
Ans:Yes, this is possible only during last one minute. Not allowed during first two minutes of the game.

Q 69) How collector robot restart at L2 ? Can collector operator switch on the collector robot at L2 ?
Ans:Collector operator can only initialize the robot to its original / restart settings, after that the collector robot shall perform on its own as per the rule book.

Q 70) If retry is needed at S2 can we adjust the position of collector robot on autonomous robot ?
Ans:Yes, you can adjust the position to its original position but can not do any modifications in orientation.

Q 71) While putting buns in the basket can collector robot extent its arm in air in manual robot zone ?
Ans:Yes, when the collector robot is in physical contact with the manual robot for the top most layer bun the collector robot can extend over manual robot zone. other wise No.

Q 72) Can manual robot go through zone C during time of the game ? or only while loading the collector robot ?
Ans:No, manual robot can not go through zone C other than loading collector robot.

Q 73) Can manual robot go through zone C while travelling towards island for placing the basket in basket deposition zone ?
Ans:No

Q 74) Is It OK, if collector robot touches the basket put in manual zone while being carried by manual robot?(collector robot can not touch the game field and it is not mentioned that basket is integral part of Game field.)
Ans:No, Collector robot can not touch the basket.

Q 75) Can we start our autonomous robot just after manual robot puts the collector robot at 'A' such that manual robot is not in touch with collector robot still some part of manual robot is inside the collector robot. Will the collector robot be considered as placed?
Ans:No, You can start automatic robot only after collector robot is completely transferred to automatic robot and completely separated from manual robot. (Referee gives the whistle after successful completion of task)

Q 76) Can manual operator start aligning manual robot to collector robot so that some part goes inside the collector robot while collector robot is still putting lower and middle layer buns autonomously? Manual robot is not in physical contact with the collector robot.
Ans:Yes, as long as manual robot is not touching collector robot.

Q 77) Is it OK, if manual robot goes on the collector robot starting point 'C' not only during the picking of collector robot but also while going back after unloading the collector robot on autonomous robot?(FAQ no. 36 states this is allowed only while loading)
Ans:No, Manual robot can not go through starting point ‘C’.

Q 78) Is it OK, If manual robot holding the collector robot and is extending over the autonomous robot and autonomous robot is yet to complete the task of putting the basket?
Ans:Yes, Please refer clause 3.12 of the rule book.

Q 79) Can manual robot bring the collector robot on to the space above the manual zone during putting top bun?
Ans:Yes, possible when both collector and manual robot are in physical contact.

Q 80) Will it be considered as violation, if collector robot extends outside the game field while putting the buns?
Ans:Yes

Q 81) Will it be considered as violation, if basket goes in air outside the game field while being carried by manual or autonomous robot or manual robot?
Ans:Yes

Q 82) Is It OK, If manual robot extends over the autonomous robot zone near the Island while going for lower buns during the last minute of the Game?
Ans:No

Q 83) Is it VIOLATION if manual robot touches the bridge of automatic robot zone while running in the manual robot zone?
Ans:No, if touched from inner side of manual Zone.

Q 84)
a) Can collector robot extend over manual robot zone while putting the Buns from lower and the middle layer? (FAQ 71 states collector robot can extend on the manual robot zone only when it is in physical contact with manual robot while faq no 19 f says the collector robot can extend on manual as well as well as on autonomous robot zone even if it is in other robot zone).
Ans:No, Collector robot can not extend over manual robot zone while putting the buns from lower and middle layer. However, It can extend over the manual zone only when collector robot and manual robot are in physical contact.

b) Our collector robot detects the vertical wall of the island while it climbs the step and put the lower and middle layer buns such that the part of collector robot is always outside the island. So in this case is it allowed to extend collector robot into manual as well as autonomous robot zone?
Ans:This is not allowed, the collector robot shall completely rest on island, it can cannot extend into loading Area L2, autonomous zone and manual zone (please refer clause 3.16, 4.5 and 4.6).

Q 85) During the game procedure, if there is a voilation by any of the three robot, does the robot needs to start "compulsory" from the Restart Zone(e.g. "A","C","M",S1","S2" etc) or it can restart from the positions (other than restart zone) indicated by the refree?(referring clause 8.2).
Ans:Refer Clause 4 for restart.

Q 86) Will it be considered as voilation, if manual operator touches the collector robot when the collector robot is in physical contact with the manual robot and collector robot goes out of control (as in case of emergency) in order to avoid damage to both robots or the game field?
Ans:No, if done with permission from refree.

Q 87) Clause 13.2 states that, the manual robot must detect the presence of operator, otherwise it should stop unconditionally, Is it Ok, if the main power supply switch is directly provided on the conrtroller, such that robot will be operated only after the switch is ON?
Ans:Yes, it is OK.

Q 88) Does the normal (numbered ) spects come under the category of Eye Protecting Goggles to be wore by manual robot operator?
Ans:Yes, the normal spectacles come under the category of goggles.

Q 89) Can operator of autonomous robot switch on autonomous robot when the manual robot is unloading the collector robot on the autonomous robot without touching the collector robot or the manual robot?
Ans:No, The Motion of Automatic Robot can be self started or be started by a team member by “one push button” only when When Collector Robot is completely separated from Manual Robot and transferred to Automatic Robot.

Q 90) When the Manual robot places the collector robot on the autonomous, can there be any projection of collector robot in the autonomous zone?
Ans:It can not extend beyond Automatic Robot Starting Point.

Q 91) Is the use of Infra-red allowed?
Ans:Yes, please refer clause 12.4.

Q 92) How many rounds are involved in each match?
Ans:Normally three rounds for initial rounds (may be subjected to change due to time constraints).

Q 93) Are there any points allocated for achieving 'Peng On Dai Gat' like last year and the winner is selected on point basis from the 3 rounds?
Ans:No, but whoever achieve 'Peng On Dai Gat' first is declared as the winner and that round ends there.

Q 94) Where is the restart point for a collector robot when it is unloaded on to loading Area 2 ?
Ans:The restart position is different depending on status, refer clause 4.5 and 4.6 for restart location.

Q 95) Can the Operator switch on the collector robot if it is restarted from loading Area 2 ?
Ans: Or can only intilize the collector robot, the collector robot has to started as per clause 3.17.

Q 96) As per rule 10.6.2 , It is said that collector height should not extend beyond 1.3m. In the case of our robot , at any point in the match, the height of collector does not extend beyond 1.3m, But the total extended height of collector robot is about 1.32m. Is this allowed or do we have to make changes in dimensions. If 1.3m is the max limitation for height, how much tolerance would be allowed?
Ans:No, it is not acceptable and you will have to reduce the dimensions. There is no tolerance beyond the maximum tolerance (refer clause no. 16.2 and 16.3).

Q 97) In case of 24V batteries, while charging the battery voltage exceeds to about 24.4-24.8 V . Is this much tolerance in voltage is allowed ? (But in running condition , the battery voltage drops below 24V )
Ans::No, not allowed, you can not over charge a battery beyond 24 V (refer clause no. 16.2 and 16.3)

Q 98) In case of restart of auto and collector robot on S2, it is said in previous FAQ that the collector robot can be aligned by an operator in original orientation , on the auto robot. If the auto robot along-with the collector robot fails to climb-up the ramp and a restart is needed from point A, in this case can the collector be aligned on auto robot by an operator ?
Ans:Yes, can be aligned by an operator to original orientation.

Q 99) In case of restart of collector at L2, collector operator will bring the collector robot orientation(arm and grippers) to original position , and change the strategy switches(push-button) and then collector robot will start by itself . Is this allowed ?
Ans:No, it is not allowed for strategy changes (please refer 16.1), however you can in the next round.

Q 100) According to a previous FAQ , it is said that while unloading collector robot on auto, manual can extend only above point A , but some part of auto is allowed to be outside point A . In this case is it allowed to start auto at same position(some part outside A) by one push-button ?
Ans:No, it is not allowed. No part of autonomous robot can be outside A.

Q 101) It is said that automatic robot can place the basket on the automatic robot zone and pick it up again to deposit it in the manual zone. Is is allowed to place the basket on automatic robot zone for about 5-10 seconds as a part of strategy and again pick it up to deposit in manual zone ?
Ans:Yes, but you will gain points only when the basket is completely placed in the manual zone on its own. But it shall not be dragged or shall not touch the ground continuously.

Q 102) Is it a violation if top bun falls outside the game field ? after it has been picked up by collector and accidentally falls down on island and bounces and falls outside the game field ?
Ans:Yes, it is a violation. You can not pick up the fallen buns (refer clause 3.19).

Q 103) If the collector robot lifted by manual robot fails to put the top bun in the basket , and now collector robot is still lifted by manual , is it allowed that collector puts buns from lower and middle layer when it is still lifted by manual?
Ans:Yes, However note that collector robot can be lifted only after putting atleast one bun form each lower and middle layer.

Q 104) If the collector robot lifted by manual robot fails to put the top bun in the basket , it is allowed that manual robot places collector on the island , and collector starts it's execution to collect buns from middle and lower layer ? (without a restart).
Ans:Yes, however please note the method of communication and control (refer clause 3.18).

Q 105) Are 4 people (3 operators-manual, auto , collector and 1 instructor) allowed on the game field ?
Ans:No, only three operators are allowed on the game field.

Q 106) If collector robot successfully stands on island after step-climbing , and a restart is needed can collector restart from S2 along-with auto ?
Ans:The restart is L2 (please refer 4.6.1)

Q 107) If collector robot has climbed the step from L2 and is stable on it, but some part of the collector extending on L2 and a restart is needed, from where will the restart be L2 or S2?
Ans:The restart is L2 (please refer 4.6.1)

Q 108) My query is that the weight of the battery to be used for powering the manual robot is included in the 25 kgs restriction or not?
Ans:The weight of the manual robot without battery is 25 Kgs. However the weight of the three robots including batteries shall not exceed 50 Kgs.

Q 109) Rule 6.3 mentions that manual robot is not allowed to move beyond fence of game field. What does "move" mean? Is manual robot allowed to extend beyond fence in air? The turntool viewer animation "Game Field Model" provided on aburobocon2012.hk shows the manual robot's arm going outside the fence of game field while it is being operated. (The game rule video does not show the side view properly). Also the front mechanism along with collector robot moves beyond the fence at L1. If this is shown as a part of animated model on official website of international robocon, does it mean it is allowed?
Ans:No, Manual robot can not extend beyond the fence in air. The animation is not to the scale and is just a pictorial representation. The written rules supersede the observation done void animation.

Q 110) Is it needed for robots to take a restart from restarting point when there is violation by that robot? As in case of manual robot if manual robot goes outside the game field while putting the token in the token box.
Ans:Please refer Clause 4 at the point of violation.

Q 111) Is it allowed to Restart Collector Robot with autonomous robot from restarting point "S2", even if collector robot has climbed successfully on the island as per the Game Strategy of Team?
Ans:No.

Q 112) Is it a violation, if any of the buns fall outside the game field?
Ans:No, if they are your side buns, however they can not be reused / picked up without permission form refree.

Q 113) How the fully extended height of collector will be measured during weight and measurement of the robots?
Ans: By creating a operation of extend physically during weights and measurements.

Q 114) From when the Practice Arena will be available for the practice of robots Before competition ?
Ans:The practice arena will be made available form 28/02/2012 morning.

Q 115) Your response to faq 19 says that manual robot can not command collector robot when in physical contact with it, but according to rule book point 3.18 (Collector Robot can accept the command from Manual Robot when Manual Robot picks up Collector Robot and is in physical contact with Collector Robot. While in physical contact, Manual Robot is allowed to communicate with Collector Robot by non-RF communication methods.).
Ans:Your answer is correct that, the "Collector Robot can accept the command from Manual Robot when Manual Robot picks up Collector Robot and is in physical contact with Collector Robot. While in physical contact, Manual Robot is allowed to communicate with Collector Robot by non-RF communication methods. (FAQ 19 b - the answer is No, because the way the manual operator is controlling the collector robot is not clear i.e the sequence of operations after pressing the switch by manual operator is important).

Q 116) Also in your response to faq 84, you have said that it con not extend over manual zone in air while picking lower buns, whereas there's no such point in the rule book anywhere, all it says that it is violation only if the bot extends over opponent's zone or outside the field area.
Ans:In response to FAQ 84, the collector robot can not extend into the space above manual zone, is a implied answer but not explicitly mentioned. We (technical team - ROBOCON 2012) have referred clause 16.1 to avoid ambiguity and answered for one of the query raised by a participating team.

Q 117) FAQ No. 90 and FAQ 49, If automatic robot is okay to be outside the STARTING POINT A in this process (according to FAQ No. 49 above), why is the collector being restricted to be completely inside the STARTING POINT A in FAQ No. 90? Please refer us the rule in the rulebook which states that collector robot cannot extend beyond START ZONE A of automatic robot while/after unloading. Limited to our knowledge, there is no such rule which restricts this.
Ans:The Autonomous robot is coming back after placing the basket in the manual zone. Hence even if the autonomous is marginally out of starting zone autonomous robot is acceptable, but it shall not be out to the extent that the manual robot or the part of collector robot extends out of the starting zone of autonomous robot while placing collector robot. It is no where mentioned in the rule book, but it has been made clear vide clause 16.1 by the technical committee to answer one of the FAQ raised by the participating team.

Q 118) My query is that can we use a joystick to control the motion of the manual robot as the basic principle of working of a joystick is a rheostat (potentiometer). I am attaching the images of the joystick we are using.
Ans:It is not clear from the figure, how you are going to vary the resistor, however please note that It is acceptable as long as you are using a push button type of operation (contact/ no contact), but you can not vary the shaft of a potentiometer by hand.

Q 119) With respect to point 4.4.3 & 4.4.4 , automatic robot after putting the basket in the manual zone fails to go back to Automatic Robot Starting Point (A) to receive the collector Bot, then Automatic Robot can be brought back to Automatic Robot Starting Point (A). Are we allowed to start the automatic bot after putting the collector bot by manual bot or we have to start the automatic bot before putting the collector bot on automatic bot?
Ans:You can start the autonomous robot only after the manual robot successfully keeps the collector robot on the autonomous robot. and the referee give the indication that the task is complete.

Q 120) Is there any tolerance for weight of manual robot? How you are going to calculate weight of nut & bolts on all robots? Is the weight of wire harnessing or switchboard will be considered in the weight of manual robot(25 kg)?
Ans:The complete robot is going to be placed on the weighing bridge platform, so that weight all accessories attached to robot is calculated. There is no tolerance above the maximum limit given as per 10.4 of rule book.

Q 121) Wanted to get it cleared that is it allowed for the manual bot to extend above the autonomous zone in the air other than the loading area and the island?
Ans:No

Q 122) Also can the manual bot extend over the area apart from the game field in the air near the bridge?
Ans:No

Q 123) a) Our manual bot picks up the collector bot from L3 and keeps it on the island, Manual loses all the contact from the collector and switches it on using non-RF communication.
b) Collector picks up the buns from the bottom and middle layer autonomously.
c) Manual then picks the collector up and goes for the top layer of bun and commands (using a remote control kept with the manual operator) the actions of the collector using non RF communication.
d) If manual fails to make the collector collect the top layer bun. It controls it to pick up the middle layer buns after 2 minutes are over.
Ans:a) OK,
b) OK
c) OK, if remote control is wired and fixed to manual robot.
d) Yes if the collector robot is isolated from manual robot.

Q 124) FAQ 90 states that the collector robot can't go outside automatic robot start zone A. We did not find this anywhere in the rulebook. Even automatic robot can go outside start zone when unloading collector, we start it from starting zone only, but collector robot is not restrict to go outside start zone. Please help it is confusing us if allowed or not.
Ans:It is a implied requirement that collector robot can’t go outside automatic robot start zone, not explicitly mentioned in the rule book (refer clause 2.4.3, 3.11, 6.10 and 10.5.2). As a technical team we used clause 16.1 to avoid ambiguity and documented the same vide answer to a FAQ raised by one of the participating team.

Q 125) Also FAQ 17 says any thing attached to manual robot is integral part of robot. Battery is a component compulsory attached to robot or it will fall. So it should be integral part of robot. Then it should consider in the weight of manual robot 25kg restriction. FAQ 108 is against this. Again confusing us in this conflict. Please help which FAQ is follow: 17 or 108?
Ans:It is correct that battery is a integral part of the robot. Again please note that this is the first time in robocon competition that manual operator is riding on the manual robot. This directly increases the battery size and the weight. As a technical team we have used clause 16.1 to avoid ambiguity in clause 10.4.3 of the rule book without comprising on the overall weight requirement of 50 Kgs. Hence both FAQs 17 and 108 are correct with the above exception.

Q 126) While carrying back the basket towards the island if in case the Manual bot drops the basket say after the bridge, however the basket is still standing on its base, so can the manual bot recollect the basket or do we have to take a restart?
Ans:Yes, the manual robot can recollect the basket and proceed without asking for restart, but however, basket shall not be dragged.

Q 127) We need help about restart of collector robot. Following situation: Collector robot picks up lower and middle layer buns and then fails before dropping them in basket and still holding the buns. Collector operator initializes it for restart, and puts it at L2. Our question is that will the buns be put in the same place from where picked up, since they are not dropped on island or elsewhere, but still held by collector robot when restart was taken?
Ans:The buns shall be placed at the same place from where they were picked up.