What happens if a hive tips because a robot collided withthe base?

If a hive tips because a robot collided with the base, it is not a valid tip and will not be counted. According to rule G417, robots may not meddle with the hive structure, and intentionally bumping, grabbing, or pushing the hive or cells to cause a tip is not allowed.

Additionally, Q&A 17 states that a robot that drives under a hive and has scoring elements bounce and deflect off their robot is in violation of G409, but if the robot actions aren't deemed to be strategic, the violation would be a verbal warning.

However, in the case of a robot colliding with the base of the hive, causing it to tip, this would be considered a major foul, as stated in rule G417.

The only valid way to tip a hive is by launching scoring elements into the upward-facing cell, as stated in 10.5.1 HIVE Scoring Criteria.

Sources
- BIOBUZZ Fouls Explained — 5:01 to 7:32 — Brogan M. Pratt
- Q&A 17: Deflect from a tipped hive
- G409 Don’t catch SCORING ELEMENTS.
- G417 ROBOTS may not meddle with the HIVE Structure.
- BIOBUZZ Game Breakdown: What To Build First, What To Avoid — 12:34 to 15:05 — Brogan M. Pratt