For the last two years we've worked during the offseason to research the best techniques for all aspects of our robot.  Attention to detail will be crucial to our success and by researching and prototyping during the offseason we can save crucial time during build season.  Our bumper design reflects the homework we've put in.

High quality 19mm Baltic Birch plywood from Commonwealth Plywood forms the structure of our bumpers.  In the picture you can see there is an L piece -this is cut from plywood allowing us to reinforce the corners with the grain going 90 degrees.  Fingerjoints are used to ensure a strong fit.

Our pool noodles provide the cushioning we want on impact with another robot.  Due to the variable sizes we purchase them in the summer and take a measuring tape into the store to ensure we have a consistent diameter!

Inspired by the Rebels (2702) we developed a toolless system for installing our bumpers.  These plates are mounted to the drive train and bolts that are secured to the bumpers slide into place allowing us to hand tighten the bolt securing the washer and preventing the bumper from shifting.  We have other techniques that depend on our requirements.