Can robots use motors that have not been approved for use in competitions?

Can robots use motors that have not been approved for use in competitions?

• A. Yes, if they are more efficient
• B. No, only approved motors are legal
• C. Yes, but with prior permission
• D. No, unless they are from previous competitions

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is based on the strict regulations that govern equipment used in competitions, especially in robotics events like those of the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). Only motors that have been explicitly approved by the competition guidelines are considered legal for use. This is to ensure a level playing field among all teams, maintain safety standards, and manage the performance consistency of robots. Using non-approved motors can lead to significant disparities in robot capabilities and could compromise the integrity of the competition. The rules are designed to create a fair environment where all teams use the same types of equipment, which encourages creativity and innovation within predefined limits. Other options suggest scenarios where unapproved motors might be permissible, but none of those align with the governing principles of fair play and compliance with competition rules. Thus, the requirement for only approved motors reinforces the structure and reliability of the event.

The correct answer is based on the strict regulations that govern equipment used in competitions, especially in robotics events like those of the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). Only motors that have been explicitly approved by the competition guidelines are considered legal for use. This is to ensure a level playing field among all teams, maintain safety standards, and manage the performance consistency of robots.

Using non-approved motors can lead to significant disparities in robot capabilities and could compromise the integrity of the competition. The rules are designed to create a fair environment where all teams use the same types of equipment, which encourages creativity and innovation within predefined limits.

Other options suggest scenarios where unapproved motors might be permissible, but none of those align with the governing principles of fair play and compliance with competition rules. Thus, the requirement for only approved motors reinforces the structure and reliability of the event.