2012 pneumatics air capacity

[mackenzie2085]

Despite this being an obvious question...has anyone found the rules regarding the max legal air capacity for this years robot? Much appreciated!:D

[EricH]

Yes, I found them. [R71-I].

I don't see any numbers of tanks in that rule...

[Al Skierkiewicz]

There has not been a limit in 2011 or 2012. You still need to satisfy other rules such as $3500 max cost and no more than $400 for a single item, and they are counted in the robot weight. However, the KOP compressor or equivalent can only pump up so much volume in a single match.

[mackenzie2085]

very helpful, thank you both!

[mehrkam]

In addition to cost, the only thing that we can figure out is that you can only presurize with a compressor powered by the robot even if it is off board <R73>. Therefore you have to run your system between matches to refill the tanks.

Make sure that refill time is less than 5 minutes, because that is the time between matches in the semifinals.

If there is another interpetation of this rule, let me know.

[DonRotolo]

There is also a Q&A question and response basically stating there is no explicit limit on the number of storage tanks.

[Bill_B]

Remember to consider the large capacity plastic reservoirs now available. Too bad we still have to use those brass fittings. Or do we?:confused:

[DonRotolo]

Too bad we still have to use those brass fittings. Or do we?:confused:We do not. As long as they meet the rules, they can be plastic, aluminum, or any other material... (Yes, we do need connectors, just not ones of heavy brass)

[R69] All pneumatic components must be COTS pneumatic devices rated by their manufacturers for working pressure of at least 125psi (with the exception of [R71]-D).
[R71] The only pneumatic system items permitted on 2012 FRC Robots include the items listed below.
<snip>
F. Pressure transducers, pressure gauges, and connecting fittings,