Can a SIMA split into more SIMAs

Question

Hi all,

Can a SIMA split into more SIMAs?

For example, suppose we have one large SIMA that pulls along two additional SIMAs, and then a mechanism disconnects them into their respective stage areas. Each SIMA would be powered and have emergency stop switches for their funny actions.

In the rules, we couldn’t find anything that explicitly prohibits this, except possibly at the start of page 16 in the general rules, which states that a SIMA should be able to move by itself. However, this seems to be in comparison to the Main Robot, not other SIMAs—as far as we understand.

If the self-movement is concerned then could you make SIMAs that can move by themselves and then connect them together, or is there still a problem there?

Thanks in advance

GK

Comments

Not an official answer:

one large SIMA that pulls along two additional SIMAs, and then a mechanism disconnects

E.3.b (2025 rules):

[The SIMA] must all be contained in the SIMA starting zone and are not stackable.

It is not very explicit, but it means that they cannot start with any vertical overlap.

 However, this seems to be in comparison to the Main Robot, not other SIMAs—as far as we understand.

F.1 (General rules) :

Each team must design [...] one or more autonomous SIMA (optional).

=> All SIMA have to be autonomous, not just in comparison with the main robot

If the self-movement is concerned then could you make SIMAs that can move by themselves and then connect them together, or is there still a problem there?

If all your SIMA are autonomous, and start detached without any vertical overlap, but then one guide the others, you could argue that it is technically within the rules. But wait for an official answer.
One counter argument would be that all SIMAs have to be able to score points by themselves to be considered autonomous, which is a higher bar than just be able to move.

Answer 1

Good Morning

Its forbidden to stack the SIMA, and the SIMA must be autonomous (as you said: SIMA should be able to move by itself). So not it's not possible