2020-2021 FIRST Tech Challenge SeasonGame-Play Workshop for Remote Events

Paul Smith

Ohio Head Referee | FIRST Tech Challenge

Game Manual 2 Release 1.3 (11-24-2020)

ULTIMATE GOAL

Are you up to the challenge?

Welcome to ULTIMATE GOAL!

Contents

Remote Play – Team Expectations

ULTIMATE GOAL Game Field Layout and Field Description

Game Manual General Seasonal Changes

Remote Event Field Personnel and Expectations

ULTIMATE Goal Game Procedures and Scoring

Game Manual 2 Rules

Forum Q&A

Other Available Training Material

Remote Play Expectations

Team Expectations

Prior to the Remote Event Teams will:

• Build a thorough knowledge of the FIRST Tech Challenge Tournament Definitions, Season Game Rules and Scoring Process

• Game Manual Part I - Remote Events currently revision 1.1

• Game Manual Part II - Remote Events currently revision 1.2

• FTC Forum Answered Questions – Remote Events (Updated Weekly)

• FTC Scoring System Team Guide

During the Remote Event Period Teams will:

• Play the season game in their own facility/space using a red or blue 2/3 field setup and observing social distancing guidelines

• Assign a MATCH MANAGER to oversee an official Match and other FIELD PERSONNEL as needed

• Assign a MATCH SCORER who is fully knowledgeable of the game rules and can score the Official 2 ½ Minute Match

• Run, Record and Submit six (6) official Qualification Match scores to FTC cloud scoring system

• Teams will be responsible for honestly and accurately scoring their official matches

• Scoring may be done real-time or on paper scoresheet as long as match scores are uploaded to the cloud during the event window

• Do not submit the best 6 Scores. Teams need to make decision BEFORE the run if they a recording an OFFICIAL MATCH or PRACTICE

• Video verification will not be required but sharing you achievements on YouTube is encouraged

Remote Play Expectations

Official FTC Forum Answers over-rule the Game Manuals

ULTIMATE GOAL

Game Field Layout and Descriptions

Game Field Layout and Descriptions

• Remote Play - Use ½ set game elements on 2/3 playing field width – Blue Tower Set Up is a Mirror Image

• A barrier can be constructed from a range of materials including an AndyMark perimeter, Do-It-Yourself wall, cardboard, etc

• A boundary element (tape, wall, markings, etc.) is part of the Area for the purposes of determining Inside and Outside.

• An object that has crossed into the upwards vertical extension of a defined Area’s boundary is Inside the Area.

• An object that is entirely within the upwards vertical extension of a defined Area’s boundary is Completely Inside the Area.

(Part of the Launch Zone)

Playing Field Boundary – A taped

line or a wall that marks the Area

where a Robot operates.

12” High Barrier

(Required only at Front of Field if

scoring in Drop Zone) The Area Outside

the Playing Field

boundary between

the 12” barrier and

the audience

(3’ x 4’)

(4’ x 10’)

Tower & Power Shot Details

Tower Goal – A Playing Field element containing 3 vertically stacked

goals named the Low, Mid, and High Goals. In Remote Play - Teams may

score achievements in all 3 goal levels of the same tower.

Power Shot / Power Shot Target – A Game Element containing 3 Targets that can be

oriented forward or away from the from the interior of the Playing Field (fwd. =

initial, back=scored).

Game Field Layout and Descriptions

Note : Only 1 Tower used in remote Play

Scoring Element Details

Wobble Goal

(2 Total)

Ring

(10 Total)

Game Field Layout and Descriptions

12.125”

Navigation Targets

Three (3) unique images mounted on the Playing Field

Walls that Robots can use to navigate around the Playing

Field. For detailed locations please see the official Field

Setup Guide. Images are to be printed on standard letter

size paper, 8 1/2 inches x 11 inches.

Game Field Layout and Descriptions

Approximate Locations for Red Tower Field

Game Manual 1 & 2 – General Change Summary

Remote Events

Game Manual 1 – Remote Events

Game Manual Seasonal Changes

• Ranking Points and Tie-Breaker Points are based on Match Scores (RP=Total Score, TBP1=Auto, TBP2=End Game)

• In Remote Events: Awards and Advancement Opportunities are based on Team Total RP (and/or TBP) from 6 Matches

• Control Award: Elevated in order of Advancement (Traditional and Remote Events)

• No team supplied scoring element

• No robot weight limit

• No vacuum based mechanisms ( in addition no hydraulic or closed gas devices)

• Game Element Max Launch = 5’ Height x 15’ Distance

• The REV Control Hub and Expansion Hub are both permitted

• Android Devices limited to Motorola Products

• PS4 gamepads (2 types) are now allowed for use with the driver station

• For Remote Events - Teams are highly recommended to conduct a Robot and Field self-inspection

Game Manual 2 – Remote Events

Seasonal Game – ULTIMATE Goal

Utilizes Half Set of Game Elements on 2/3 Width Field

Team Oriented (No Alliance Play)

No Yellow or Red Cards – Replaced by Major Scoring Penalties

Minor/Major Penalty Points (10 Minor / 30 Major)…………. Deducted from Team Score at end of Match

Launching of game elements allowed….and encouraged…..but only safely in one direction

10 ULTIMATE GOAL Game-Specific (GSXX) Rules Apply for Remote Events

Safety and General Rules Sections (modified for Remote Events)

Game Manual Seasonal Changes

Field Personnel

Human Player (must be a

student unless local social distancing

rules restrict participation in Remote

Matches to one student on the Team)

Field Personnel

Field Personnel – Remote Events

Scorer

Up to Two Drivers

(students) and One Drive

Coach (student or adult)

Match Manager

..and maybe FTA, Photographer and Playing Field Crew

(if allowed by social distancing guidelines)

OR……….

Front/Forward

A Team – Mentors, supporters, and pre-college-aged

students affiliated with an entity registered with FIRST

and for the remote competition.

Oversees official Matches

and Field Personnel

Scores Match

Real-Time

Field Personnel - may position themselves

anywhere outside the Driver Station and

Human Player Station

..a multi-tasking multi-talented team member

(who is not on the Drive Team)

ULTIMATE GOAL Game Play

Pre-Match

Field Set-Up for Remote Play

Before the Match, field personnel will…..

• Place two (2) Wobble Goals on the end of the Start Lines

• One will be pre-loaded by the team on the robot ; the other one will remain in the initial field setup position.

• Place a stack of four (4) rings on the Playing Field in the Starter Stack Area (2” Gaffer Tape Square)

• Some or all of the rings may be removed later by field personnel as a result of pre-match randomization… and placed in low goal

• Place a stack of three (3) rings outside the playing field for the Team to pre-load on their robots during setup

• Place the three (3) remaining rings in the Low Goal of the Tower

• For use by the Human Player during Driver Controlled Period

• Move all three (3) power shot targets to the forward facing position

4

3

3

2

Targets Face Front at Set Up

Pre-Match

Robot Set Up

The Team selects their Robot’s starting location

• The Robot* may be placed in any orientation, Inside the Playing Field Boundary.

• The Robot* must touch or break the plane (if no barrier present) of the front facing Playing Field Boundary.

• The Robot* must be Parked In one of the Start Lines.

A Robot is required to Pre-Load exactly one (1) of the Wobble Goals.

• The remaining Wobble Goal must stay in its setup position.

A Robot may Pre-Load up to three (3) Rings.

• Rings cannot be loaded onto the Wobble Goal.

• Rings that are not Pre-Loaded on the robot are placed into the Tower Low Goal for the Human Player to

use during the Driver-Controlled Period.

The Drive Team uses their Driver Station Android device to select an Op Mode

• Pressing the Driver Station Init button is not required unless it is needed for the Robot to satisfy the Match

start size constraint (18” max cube). FrontAny of the 3 Rings not pre-loaded

on robot are placed in low goal*Since this is a positional requirement - The physical robot must touch the wall AND it must break the plane of

the start-line regardless of where any scoring element(s) are pre-loaded on the robot (see rule <G4>). Also

Game Forum Q&A clarifies the pre-loaded scoring elements must be inside the playing field boundary.

Pre-Match

Field Randomization

Once the Team communicates they are ready, the Match Manager gives the set-up

complete signal:

• Drive Team must be standing in their Driver Box and the Human Player in the marked

area behind the Tower Goal.

• Drive Team may no longer touch their Robot until the conclusion of the Match <GS5>

• Drive Team may not touch their Driver Station or controllers until the Autonomous

Period has ended, except to initialize and/or start their Autonomous program using

the Driver Station Android device screen. A Robot that requires Autonomous program

initialization to satisfy the Robot starting size constraint must be initialized before the

Match Manager gives the set-up complete signal. <GS5>

Field personnel will randomize the field into one of the three (3) configurations.

• The pre-placed stacks of Rings will be adjusted to either zero (0), one (1), or four (4),

corresponding to the selected Target Zone Goal (A, B, or C).

• Excess Rings will be dropped into the Tower Low Goal.

Top of Boundary Wall

(this picture may appear as an optical illusion for some people)

At START of Autonomous – Field Personnel begin countdown “Teams, 3-2-1-GO”

• The Team will start the 30-second Autonomous with a touch on their Driver Station Android device (“init” and/or “start” commands)

• Driver Station shall remain in hands-off location during the Autonomous Period so that it is evident that there is no human control of

Robots.

• Scorer records the robots achievements and notes any penalties with the following considerations:

• Drivers, Drive Coach remain in their Station <G16>

• Early Start of Match Period <G18>

• Late Start of 30-Second Auto Command on Android Device <G19>

• Early Stop – Through action with Driver Station or other Robot interaction <G21>

• Late Parking – Movement after end of buzzer sound <G20>

• Possession Limits <GS6>

• Illegally Scored Rings and Power Shot Targets <GS12> <GS13>

At END of Autonomous – 8 Second TRANSITION Period <G1>

• Scoring system display will provide visual and audio cues for the Drive Team to pick up and prepare their Driver Stations

• Scorer will assess the field and finish recording any Scores and Penalties*

• Automatic countdown and announcement (ending 3-2-1-GO!)

• The Team presses their Driver Station start button to resume

Autonomous Period (30 seconds)

Note: It is permissible for other field personnel to document penalties. These can be entered by the scorer at the end of the match.

Every Wobble Goal that is “Completely In” the correct Target Zone A, B

or C (defined by the initial starter stack size) earns fifteen (15) points.

A Robot that is Parked at the End of the Period with any portion of

the Robot “In” the Launch Line earns five (5) points

Low Goal – 3 Points eachRing may be Placed or Launched by Robot

From anywhere inside the playing field

Mid Goal – 6 Points eachLaunched from a robot completely in launch zone

High Goal – 12 Points eachLaunched from a robot completely in launch zone

Tower Goal ScoringEach Ring that completely enters the Low,

Mid, or High Goal earns points Each Power Shot Target

changed from Forward to

Back position by direct

contact* with a launched

ring from a robot that is

completely in the launch

zone earns fifteen (15)

points

Wobble Goal Delivery to Target Zone – 15 Pts each goal

Scored at End of Period

Scored Live (as it happens)

Autonomous Period Scoring Tasks

Robot Navigating – 5 Points each robot

Scored at End of Period

Goal color differentiation only applicable for traditional tournaments

Power Shot Target – 15 Pts each target

Scored at Rest

after Autonomous

ends.

C

B

No Rings A

• This rule reflects change in Game Manual 2 - Rev 1.2

“Completely In” =

No part of Wobble

Goal may extend

outside the tape of

the zone

In = Any part of the

physical robot may

break the plane of

the white launch line

Zone

No score or penalty

for wrong zone

Target must be

moved back by a

ring to legally score

Illegally scored

target will still score

but subtract Major

Penalty (30 points)

*

*

Two minutes of Driver Controlled Robot action (including a 30 second end game achievement period)

Field Personnel and Scorer continue to watch, warn and/or record any rule violations, including the following:

• Unsafe Robots and/or Playing Field Damage <S1>

• Early start <G18>

• Late parking at end of period <G20>

• Driver Coach operating Robot via Gamepad <G23>

• Robots Grasping “Game Elements” (excl. Scoring elements) <G25>

• Human Player Ring Handling <GS4>………use return rack

• Possession Limits <GS6> >…. Max 1 Wobble Goal and 3 Rings controlled at a time

• Launching of Game Elements <GS7>….Rings may only launch over tower goal boundary. No wobble goal launching.

• Illegally Scored Rings and Power Shot Targets <GS12> <GS13>…Robot must be “completely in” launch zone except low goal scoring

Human Players are expected to:

• Return Rings to the Playing Field as quickly as practical via the Return Racks

• Reset Scored Power Shot Targets to an un-scored state prior to end game (10 second grace period after end game starts).

Driver Controlled Period (2 minutes)

In Remote Events, it is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings but

they must be returned via the Return Rack on the side of the Tower Goal

Driver Controlled Period Scoring Task

Low Goal – 2 Points eachRing can be Placed or Launched from anywhere inside the playing field

Mid Goal – 4 Points eachRing must be Launched from completely in launch zone

High Goal – 6 Points eachRings must be Launched from completely in launch zone

Tower Goal ScoringSame rules as Autonomous (except point value is lower)

Each Ring that completely enters the Low, Mid, or High Goal

earns points for the Team as follows:

To count as scored, they must not exit back out through the front of the Goal Stuck Rings that

must be removed from Inside a Tower Goal by the Human Player count as Scored.

The scorer must record the Ring score the instant it is Completely In the Tower Goal, and not in

contact with a Robot or Human Player. (Cannot wait until the end as the ring must be returned)

Rings Launched prior to the End of the Period are still eligible to be Scored

A robot may only possess a maximum of 3 Rings at any time <GS6>

Illegally Scored Rings earn points for the Team but also earn an offsetting

MAJOR Penalties

• Legally score rings score points.

• Illegally scored rings score points

and MAJOR penalties

Eligible for any Wobble Goal that is “In”

a Target Zone OR not in launch zone at

beginning of end game.

Each Wobble Goal “In” a start line at

end of the match earns five (5) points

Eligible for any Wobble Goal that is “In”

a Target Zone OR not in launch zone at

beginning of end game.

Each Wobble Goal Placed over a (12”

high) barrier and Supported by the Drop

Zone at the End of the Match earns

twenty (20) points.

Wobble Goal Rings - 5 Pts each

Each Ring Completely Supported by a

Wobble Goal or another Ring Completely

that is Supported by the Wobble Goal at

the End of the Period earns five (5) points

Wobble Goal may be located anywhere

and in any orientation

Power Shot Target – 15 Pts each

Every Power Shot Target changed from

Forward to Back position by direct contact

with a launched ring from a Robot completely

in the launch zone earns fifteen (15) points for

the Team.

Scored At End of the Match

Scored based on position at end of the Match

Scored At End of the Match

Scored At End of the Match

Human Player has a 10 second grace period

following the start of End Game to reset any Targets

changed legally or illegally during earlier gameplay.

End Game Scoring Tasks

(last 30 seconds of Driver Controlled Period)

Wobble Goal Delivery to Start Line – 5 Pts each goal Wobble Goal Delivery to Drop Zone – 20 Pts each goal

End Game tasks started and/or completed prior to the start of the End Game will earn zero (0) points for those tasks.

Note: A team is allowed to move Wobble goals to eligible “starting positions” prior to start of End Game

Not “In” = Completely OutsideNot “In” = Completely Outside

An Illegally scored

target will still score

but subtract Major

Penalty (30 points)

Match ENDS when timer reaches 0:00 and game buzzer sounds

• Drive Team should make their best effort to stop gameplay immediately when the buzzer sounds. They should be motionless by the

time the game buzzer sound ends.

• Robots that are not Parked at the conclusion of the game sound receive a Minor or Major Penalty and the actions of the

Robot do not count towards their Score <G20>

• Scoring Elements that were Launched (unless disallowed by Game-Specific rules) before the End of the Period are eligible

to be counted as Scored <G20>

• Scoring Elements in contact with robots do not count <G10>

• Field Personnel will review and finalize the score <G2>

• Include any match penalties (this season…10 points Minor / 30 Points Major… deducted from score)

• The Match Manager will signal for the Drive Team to enter the Playing Field and retrieve their Robots

• The Playing Field reset crew will set up the Playing Field for the next Match.

End of Match

Game Scoring Summary

Scored Live: The achievement is considered Scored the moment it is successfully completed

Scored at End of the Period: The achievement’s Scoring status is determined based on the Robot or Scoring Element’s position at the End of the Period.

Scored at Rest: The achievement is considered Scored based on the position of the Robot or Scoring Element when the entire field has come to rest after the Match Period ends.

Select Official MatchRandomize

Autonomous Driver Period

Select Practice

OR

FTC Scoring System – Entry Screens

FTC Scoring System Final Review Screen

Submit Official

Match Scores to

Cloud

Last Chance Review

Screen to verify and/or

change scores entered in

Autonomous and Driver

Period. Penalties may also

be applied.

Take your time…. Official

match Scores cannot be

changed after pushing

Submit Button

Game Manual Definitions

Definitions

Game Definitions

Don’t always look to the game rules section of the manual for all the answers

Definitions provide important insight to interpreting the game rules and points scoring

Become familiar with these common definitions (section 4.4 of Game Manual 2)

• Area

• Control / Controlling…….Carrying, Herding, Holding, Launching

• Delivery

• In (Inside) / Completely In (Completely Inside)

• Inadvertent

• Inconsequential

• Launching

• Off

• On / Completely On

• Out / Outside

• Park / Parked

• Possess / Possessing

• Pre-Load

• Support / Supported / Completely Supported

Italicized words in the Game Manuals are

generally associated with a word or phrase

found in the Definitions section of the Manual

Safety Rules <S1> to <S3>

Safety Rules

<S1> Unsafe Robot or Playing Field Damage

If at any time the Robot operation is deemed unsafe or has damaged the Playing Field the offending Robot may be Disabled.

<S2> Robot Extension Outside the Playing Field Boundary

For safety reasons, no portion of the Robot may contact anything Outside the Playing Field Boundary. A Major Penalty will be assessed

per occurrence. See the game definitions in section 4.4 for a complete description of the Playing Field Boundary

<S3> Safety Gear

Matches must not be played until all members of the Drive Team are wearing approved eye protection and shoes with closed-toes and

a closed-back.

The intent of this rule is for safe or Inadvertent Robot extension Outside the Playing

Field Boundary. Intentional Robot extension Outside the Playing Field is not permitted,

except as allowed by Game-Specific rule <GS1>

Inadvertent and “Inconsequential” contact with the PowerShot, Tower Goal, Netting

and Support Rods is not subject to Penalty.

New ULTIMATE Goal Game Specific Rules <GS1> to <GS13>

Remote Play

Game Specific Rules

<GS1> Robot extension outside the Playing Field Boundary

A Robot may safely extend outside the Playing Field Boundary for Scoring Rings in the Low

Tower Goal (back Boundary) and during the End Game for Scoring a Wobble Goal in the

Drop Zone (front Boundary). All other extensions outside the Playing Field Boundary will be

handled per rule Safety Rule <S2>

Low Tower Goal

Drop Zone

Playing Field Floor

Playing Field

Floor

Front Wall or 12” High Barrier

Back Boundary Line or Wall

Note: As currently written, extension outside the playing field

perimeter to place RINGS onto an already scored wobble goal is not

allowed.

Game Specific Rules

<GS2> Human Player Station

The Human Player may change position Inside the Human Player

Station while actively collecting Rings, placing Rings into the Team’s

Return Rack, and resetting Power Shot Targets

It is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player

Station to retrieve Rings.

Note: Human Player may ONLY return rings to the playing field via

the return rack. See rule <GS4>.

Human Player

Game Specific Rules

<GS3> Grasping Scoring Elements

Grasping Scoring Elements – A Robot may grasp Rings and Wobble

Goals

Note General Rule <G25> restricts grasping

or grabbing of any other field elements

Game Specific Rules

<GS4> Human Player Ring Handling

The Human Player may introduce Rings Onto the Playing Field Floor with the constraints listed below. After Field Personnel issue a

warning, subsequent violations of these constraints within the tournament result in a Minor Penalty per occurrence

a) A Human Player may not introduce Rings into the Playing Field before the start of the Driver-Controlled Period.

b) A Human Player may only introduce Rings into the Playing Field using the Return Rack. The Drive Team may not bring tools (except

noted for <GS4>g) or devices to the Playing Field for handling Rings. Accommodations and exceptions for a Human Player with

disabilities or extenuating circumstances can be made but must take into consideration all safety, general, and Game-Specific

rules. .

c) Storing a supply of Rings by a Human Player is not allowed during the Driver-Controlled Period. Rings should be returned to the

Playing Field as quickly as practical. Penalties will be assessed per Ring with additional Penalties per Ring for every five seconds

the violation continues.

d) The Human Player may not extend Inside the Playing Field Boundary..

e) The Human Player is allowed to reach into the Tower Goal to retrieve stuck Rings when the Robot is at least 24 inches from the

Tower Goal.

f) The Human Player may hold more than one Ring at a time.

g) The Human Player may use a tool to remove Rings that are stuck in the Return Rack.

The Human player may not extend over the Playing Field Boundary to remove Scoring Elements from either the Tower

Goal or Powershot. All scoring elements must be removed from the rear even if the robot is at a safe distance.

Game Specific Rules

<GS5> Drive Team Touching The Robot or Driver Station after Starter Stack Randomization

The Drive Team is not allowed to touch or interact with their Robot or Driver Station once Field Personnel have begun the randomization

process. If this occurs, a Minor Penalty will be assessed, and the Robot is not eligible to earn the Wobble Goal Delivery Score in the

Autonomous Period.

=OR

Every Wobble Goal that is Completely In Target

Zone A, B or C (defined by the initial starter

stack size) earns fifteen (15) points.

Wobble Goal Delivery to Target Zone

<GS6> Control/Possession Limit of Scoring Elements - Rings

A Robot may Control or Possess a maximum of three (3) Rings. A Launched Ring is considered Controlled

until it makes contact with something else (e.g. Playing Field Floor, net, Tower Goal).

a) Plowing through any quantity of Rings is allowed but Herding or directing Rings above the allowed

limit to gain a strategic advantage (i.e., Scoring, accessibility) is not allowed. The Penalty for

Controlling or Possessing more than the allowed quantity is an immediate Minor Penalty for each

Ring above the limit plus an additional Minor Penalty per Ring in excess of the limit for each 5-

second interval that this situation continues. An additional Minor Penalty will be assessed for each

Ring that is Scored while a Robot Controls or Possesses more than the allowed quantity.

b) Controlling or Possessing a Ring by a Robot before the Ring has been Supported by the Playing

Field Floor will earn a Minor Penalty for each occurrence. Violation of this Rule will escalate to a

Major Penalty (upon reoccurrence during the event)

c) Rings Supported by a Wobble Goal are exempt from the Control/Possession Limit.

Rings that may become Possessed Inadvertently by a Robot still earn a Penalty.

Teams should design their Robots to minimize the possibility of accidently Possessing a stray Ring.

Game Specific Rules

Game Specific Rules

<GS6> Control/Possession Limit of Scoring Elements – Wobble Goals

A Robot may Control or Possess a maximum of one (1) Wobble Goal.

Inconsequential Control of Wobble Goals above the limit is allowed.

The Penalty for Controlling or Possessing more than the allowed quantity is an immediate Minor

Penalty for each Wobble Goal above the limit plus an additional Minor Penalty per Wobble Goal for

each five second interval that this situation continues.

A Major Penalty will be assessed for each Wobble Goal in excess of the limit that is Scored while a

Robot Controls or Possesses more than the allowed quantity.

Game Manual Definition : An object is Controlled by a Robot if the object is following the movement of the Robot.

Examples of Control / Controlling

Carrying – Holding one or more Game Elements inside or outside of a Robot.

Herding – Pushing or impelling one or more Game Elements to a desired location or direction that gains a strategic advantage.

Holding – Trapping one or more Scoring Elements against a Game Element, Playing Field Wall, or Robot to shield or guard them..

Examples of Not Controlled

Plowing – Inadvertent contact with Game Elements while in the path of the Robot moving about the Playing Field

Deflecting – Inadvertent contact with a Launched Game Element as it bounces off the Playing Field or a Robot

Game Specific Rules

<GS7> Launching of Game Elements

Rings – A Robot may Launch Rings during any Match Period. Any Ring Launched over a Boundary that is not the Tower Goal Boundary

will receive a Minor Penalty.

Wobble Goals – Launching Wobble Goals is not allowed. A Major Penalty will be assessed for violating this rule and the Wobble Goal will

not earn points for the period (Autonomous or Driver Controlled) when the violation occurred.

The intent of this rule is not to Penalize Inadvertent Launching

of Rings over the Tower while attempting to Score.

Tower Goal Boundary5’ max

(per G.M.1)

16’ max

(per G.M.1)

Field personnel will return rings that leave the field from approximately where they left

Human Player must return rings that leave the field via return rack.

Game Specific Rules

<GS8> Autonomous Interference

Does not Apply To Remote Play

<GS9> Wobble Goals Constraints

The Robot may not place Rings onto Wobble Goals except during the End Game.

A Minor Penalty will be assessed for each Ring

Game Specific Rules

Placement allowed in

End Game Only

Note: As currently written per rule <GS1>. Extension outside

the playing field perimeter to place rings onto an already

scored wobble goal is not allowed.

Game Specific Rules

<GS10> Ring Interference

Does not Apply To Remote Play

Game Specific Rules

<GS11> Tower Goals Interference

Does not Apply To Remote Play

Specific Game Rules

<GS12> Illegal Tower Goal Scoring

Rings that are launched to be scored into the middle or high tower goals

must be launched while the robot is completely in the launch zone.

An improperly launched ring should still be counted as scored, but the

team is also assessed a Major Penalty per Ring scored.

White launch Line is considered

part of the launch zone

Robot must be “completely” in the launch zone to

score points in the Mid and High Tower Goals

Specific Game Rules

<GS13> Illegal Power Shot Scoring

Power Shot Targets may only be Scored by direct contact

with a Ring Launched by a Robot Completely In the Launch

Zone.

A Robot Outside the Launch Zone that Scores a Power Shot

Target by its actions (e.g. Launching a Ring, contact with the

Power Shot assembly, etc.) or Completely In the Launch

Zone and Scores a Power Shot Target through indirect

contact (e.g. Rings contacting Power Shot assembly, etc.) is

assessed a Major Penalty per Scored Power Shot Target.

White launch Line is considered

part of the launch zone

* This rule reflects change in Game Manual 2 - Rev 1.2

• A ring that hits the vertical PowerShot leg and causes one or

more targets to move by vibration is considered “illegal” (non-

direct) scoring

• A rings that deflects off something (like the tower goal) and

subsequently contacts and moves a power shot target is “legal”

Penalty Summary – Safety and

Specific Game Rules

Other Game Specific Rules have no penalty or are not applicable for remote play

General Games Rules (abbreviated)

(Apply Every Season with little change)

<G1> to <G10> Further Definitions

<G11> to <G17> Pre-Match

<G18> to <G30> Gameplay Penalties

General Game Rules (Abbreviated)

<G1> Autonomous to Driver-Controlled Period Transition

At the conclusion of the Autonomous Period, the Robot will remain in a hands-off state. Field Personnel will not enter the field and

will not touch the Robot on the field during the Autonomous to Driver-Controlled transition.

Drive Teams will have 5 seconds to pick up and prepare their Driver Station. After the 5 seconds, there will be a “3-2-1 go”

countdown and the Driver-Controlled Period of the Match will begin. (Total 8 second break).

<G2> Certifying the Score at the End of The Match

The final Score will be certified as quickly as possible. A change in state of a Game Element or Robot at the End of the Match after

its final Score is recorded will not change an already-recorded Score. No recounting of game elements.

<G3> Forcing an Opponent to Break a Rule – Does Not Apply in Remote Competition

<G4> Robot Manipulation of Scoring Elements

Scoring Elements that are Controlled or Possessed by a Robot are part of the Robot except when determining the location of the

Robot. Ie. The position of a Robot (“IN” “OUT” etc,) for purpose of scoring the Robot is not defined by any scoring element it may be

controlling/holding.(For example parking in autonomous)

<G5> Robot or Scoring Elements In Two or More Scoring Areas

Robots or Scoring Elements that are In two or more Scoring Areas earn points only for the highest value achievement.

See Game Manual for Complete Descriptions

<G6> Disabled Robot Eligibility

Disabled Robot is not eligible to Score, earn points, or incur Penalties for the remainder of the Match

<G7> Playing Field Tolerances

Playing Field and Game Elements will start each Match with tolerances that may vary by as much as +/-1.0 inch (25.4 mm). Teams

must design their Robots accordingly.

<G8> Match Replay

Once started, Matches are not paused or replayed. (One you commit to an Official Match you must submit the score at the end)

<G9> Inadvertent and Inconsequential – No penalty

Robot actions that violate a rule may be ruled to be Inconsequential and Inadvertent, and will not be Penalized

<G10> Scoring Elements in Contact with Robots

Scoring Elements in a Scoring Area that are in contact with or Controlled by a Robot for the Scoring Area have zero Score value.

Game-Specific rule(s) listed in section 4.6.3 that allow Robot contact with Scoring Elements take precedence over this general game

rule. (This season, any wobble goal or ring in contact with the robot at the end of auto or end of match has no scoring value)

General Game Rules

See Game Manual for Complete Descriptions

<G11> Drive Team

The Drive Team shall include up to two Drivers, one Coach, and one Human Player. (Driver and Human Player must be students)

<G12> Playing Field Access

Drive Team members cannot enter the Playing Field for any reason other than to place or retrieve their Robot. A Minor Penalty is

assessed for violation of this rule.

<G13> Pre-Match Robot Placement

At the beginning of a Match, the Robot must be set up on the Playing Field according to section 4.5.1 Pre-Match. After the Robot is

set up on the Playing Field, the Drive Team must stand Inside the Alliance Station Team Station or Human Player Station.

<G14> Robot Starting Volume

Before the start of a Match, the Robot in its starting location must not exceed a volume of 18 inches by 18 inches by 18 inches. A Pre-

Loaded Scoring Element may extend Outside the 18-inch cube volume constraint. Match play must not begin until the Robot’s starting

volume constraint is satisfied. After the start of a Match, the Robot may extend in any dimension

General Game Rules – Pre-Match

If a Team feels the Playing Field is not set up correctly, Teams should notify Field Personnel prior to the start of the Match.

For safety reasons, students should not sit in any station before or during a match

It is preferred that the Human Player is a student competing on the Team. However, for the 2020-2021 season, exceptions

can be made to allow an adult mentor, coach, parent, etc. to fill the role as Human Player if there are strict social distancing

guidelines that do not allow more than a Team of one student to meet and participate in official Matches.

General Game Rules – Pre-Match

<G15> Robot Setup/Alignment

The Drive Team may align its Robot during pre-Match setup if they do so with legal components that are part of the Robot and can be reset to be within the 18-inch cube starting volume constraint. A single member of the Drive Team may also align the Robot by sight if they are next to the Robot and their action does not delay the start of a Match. A Minor Penalty will be assessed to the Team for violation of this rule.

<G16> Alliance Team Station and Human Player Stations

During a Match, the Drivers, Coach, and Human Player must remain In their Stations

a) The first instance of leaving the Station will result in a warning, with any following instances during the Match resulting in a MinorPenalty. Leaving the Station for safety reasons will not result in a warning or Penalty

b) The Drive Team may be anywhere in their respective Alliance Team Station and Human Player Station. The Human Player should not obstruct the view of Field Personnel scoring the Match..

<G17> Post-Match Removal of Robots

The Robot must be designed to permit easy removal of Game Elements from the Robot after the Match. The Robot should also be able to be removed from the Playing Field without damaging the Playing Field. A Minor Penalty will be assessed for violations of this rule.

Use of body parts or team members standing inside/outside field perimeter is not allowed.

It is reasonable for the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings.

General Game Rules – Game Play

<G18> Starting Gameplay Early (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period)

A Robot that starts playing the game (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period) prior to the start of a Match Period receives a Minor

Penalty. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor Penalty if the early start results in an

advantage for the offending Team.

<G19> Late Start of the Autonomous Period

Teams participating in the Autonomous Period are expected to press the ”start with 30-second” button on their Driver Station Android

device and then place the Driver Station in a hands-off location.

A Minor Penalty is assessed for violating this rule. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor

Penalty if the late start results in an advantage for the offending Team.

<G20> Parked at End of the Period (Autonomous or Driver-Controlled Period)

Drive Teams should make their best effort to stop gameplay immediately when the End of the Period game sound begins. Robots

that are not Parked at the conclusion of the game sound receive a Minor Penalty and the actions of the Robot do not count towards

the Team’s Score. Field Personnel have the option of issuing a Major Penalty in place of the Minor Penalty if the late stop results in a

competitive advantage (other than Scoring) for the offending Team

<G21> Robot Control During Autonomous Period

Early stopping of the Robot while running 30-second Autonomous code is not allowed, except for safety. A Major Penalty will be

assessed.

General Game Rules – Game Play

<G22> Drive Team Contact with the Playing Field or Robot

During a Match, the Drive Team is prohibited from making contact with the Playing Field, the Robot, or any Game Element (except

for allowed Human Player activities). The first instance of contact will result in a warning, with any following instances resulting in a

Minor Penalty. Contact with the Playing Field, a Game Element, or a Robot for safety reasons will not result in a warning or Penalty.

<G23> Drive Team Coach Driver Station Control

Drive coaches are allowed to hold driver station but not control robot (for example, operating a Gamepad)

The first is a warning. Any following instances during the tournament will result in a Major Penalty.

<G24> Robots Deliberately Detaching Parts (excluding scoring elements)

Not permitted (even if detached part is tethered). Minor Penalty per occurrence.

<G25> Robots Grasping Game Elements

No “grabbing” or “grasping” of game or field elements……… other than allowed by <GS3> “Scoring Elements”

The first instance will result in a warning. Any following violations during the tournament resulting in a Major Penalty.

<G26> Destruction, Damage, Tipping, Entanglement of Robots or Game Elements

Destruction, Damage, Tipping, etc. – Robot actions aimed at the destruction, damage, tipping over, or entanglement of Game

Elements are not in the spirit of the FIRST Tech Challenge and are not allowed unless permitted by Game-Specific rules.

Some tipping, entanglement, and damage may occur as a part of normal gameplay. If the tipping, entanglement, or damage is ruled

to be deliberate or chronic, the Team will receive a Major Penalty.

<G27> Removing Game Elements from the Playing Field

A Robot may not deliberately remove Game Elements from the Playing Field during a Match. Game Elements that Inadvertently fall

Outside the Playing Field will be returned to the Playing Field by Field Personnel at the earliest safe and convenient opportunity at a

non-Scoring location approximately where it left the field. Game Elements removed from the Playing Field in an attempt to Score are

also not subject to this Penalty. A Team that deliberately removes Game Elements from the Playing Field will incur a Minor Penalty

per Game Element removed from the Playing Field.

Game-Specific <GS7> rule that addresses the removal of specified Scoring Elements from the Playing Field for Ultimate Goal

Season take precedence over this general game rule.

<G28> Pinning, Trapping, or Blocking Robots – Rule does not apply in the remote competition

<G29> Illegal Usage of Game Elements

Robots may not deliberately use Game Elements to ease or amplify the difficulty of any Scoring or game activity. A Major Penalty will

be assessed for violations of this rule.

G30> Egregious Behavior – Rule does not apply in the remote competition

General Game Rules – Game Play

Penalty Summary

Other General Rules have no penalty or are not applicable for remote play

Official FTC Game Q&A Forum

FTC Official Game Forum

The Game Q&A Forum https://ftcforum.firstinspires.org is a place where

teams receive official feedback about the game rules, robot rules, advancement

criteria, and judging.

If rules are in conflict with each other, the hierarchy is………..

1) Safety trumps all, see Game Manual 2 Rules <S1-S3>

2) Q&A Forum rulings take precedence over information in the Game

Manuals)

3) Game Specific rules <GS> take precedence over General Rules <G1>

During the season, Team questions are answered by Game Experts between

Monday and Thursday (noon)

A running record of all Forum Q&A is published every Thursday PM in one large

document on the FTC season game site at

https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/ftc/game-and-season-info

Teams are highly encouraged to use the Q&A forum (instead of

local support). This will assure all teams receive consistent

interpretation of the rules… from the people who wrote them.

Game Forum FAQ… Some Recent Game Rule Clarifications – Remote Play

• During the Autonomous period, after the robot uses a ring to shoot down a power shot target, if that ring bounces back onto the playing field, is the robot allowed to shoot that ring again? Answer: Yes

• During the Autonomous period, can the robot use rings from the Starter Stack to either shoot down Power Shot Targets for points or to score in the Tower Goal Answer: Yes. Keep in mind that the Ring Control/Possession limits described in rule <GS6> apply to all periods of gameplay.

• Is it alright for a flywheel to continue on unpowered motion between the Autonomous and Driver-Controlled periods? Answer: Yes

• What will occur with the Rings that go outside the field perimeter either by robot launching, or when a match is played without a solid side perimeter barrier Answer: Rule <G27> states that Rings that go outside the Playing Field Boundary will be returned to the Playing Field by Field Personnel at the earliest safe and convenient opportunity at a non-Scoring location approximately where it left the field. Rule <G16> allows the Human Player to leave the Human Player Station to retrieve Rings. The Human Player shall use the ReturnRack to introduce Rings into the Playing Field.

• May a Robot move a Wobble Goal Into a Target Zone or to Outside the Launch Zone Any Time up Until the Start of the End Game Period? Answer: Yes

FTC Official Game Forum

Other Available Remote Game Play Training

FIRST

FTC Scoring System Team Guide - Training Manual on FTC scoring system for Teams

Remote Event Scoring for Teams – Videos on how to setup and use the FTC scoring system

FIRST Game Play and Scoring Webinars – Recordings of monthly* Q&A calls with FTC Teams

Ohio FTC

Ultimate Goal Game Rules for Remote Events – Long version of this familiarization presentation

Game Walk Through – Video walk through of the season game and rules with OH FTC Head Ref

ULTIMATE Goal Game Play Quiz – Test you knowledge on game procedures and rules

Remote Game Play Training Material

* Check with your lead mentors or Team Blast for the call schedule and meeting information

Good Luck Teams!