What is the main reason behind the restriction on robot interactions during matches?

The primary reason for the restriction on robot interactions during matches is to prevent collisions that may cause damage. In competitive robotics, maintaining the integrity of the robots is crucial, as excessive or unintended contact can lead to mechanical failures or malfunctions that not only affect the performance of the robots involved but also disrupt the flow of the match. By minimizing interactions that could lead to collisions, the competition organizers ensure that each robot can operate safely and as intended, allowing for a smoother and more equitable competition environment.

While ensuring every robot has a chance to compete, fostering team collaboration, and maintaining a level playing field are all important considerations in a robotics competition, the immediate concern with interaction restrictions is the protection of the robots themselves from damage that could arise due to collisions.