New robot rules at Peachtree
 

I just received an email blast from the Peachtree regional commmitee. They are now adding a requirement for a "safety interlock", a device that will prevent accidental actuation of a firing system.

The only issue I have here is that since this is not rule put in place by FRC, there is no Q&A, or any other method by which we can get clarification. I have no worries that the launching mechanism on our robot might accidentally fire. I am now worried that we will run into trouble with the inspectors because I do not see an easy way to add an interlock that will not violate the robot rules. Our mechanism is pneumatic in nature, and we must transport the robot with the pneumatic system pre-charged. since the pneumatic rules are very restrictive, most safety interlock systems would violate the pneumatic rules.

There is no governing body I know of to ask questions of, since this was not imposed by FIRST.

This year just keeps getting better.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

We have a pneumatic firing system as well. We designed a mechanical lockout that does not violate any rules. It is simply a metal bar that goes through 2 eye bolts in the frame. The bar keep the arm from firing even if we hit the trigger while it is in place. We forgot a few times with the practice bot. It makes a dull thud when it's fired with the safety on.

I have had lockouts in all high energy devices after we were told by an inspector to add one in about 5 years ago.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

Unfortunately, our design does not lend itself to a mechanical blocking device.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

I'm almost positive that they shouldn't be allowed to enforce this "rule" as much as it makes sense to have such a safety feature.

Glad I won't have to worry about it. My original team might though.

The only way my teams mechanism would accidentally go off in transport from the pit to the field is if we had a catastrophic materials failure from extreme unprecedented stress. Which can be said of pneumatic based systems as well.

However it seems pretty clear to me that all you have to do to not have to add a whole new subsystem onto your robot is not do this.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

a wire with a hook at the end that is attached to the frame?

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

In general, this is a good idea anyway. Both us and our alliance partners (1126) this past weekend had ridiculously powerful shooters. Both also had a mechanical lock in place for carrying the robot in a stored energy configuration. Whether it's just a steel bar through two eyebolts holding back your catapult (20) or a thick metal pin that holds back a powerful slingshot (1126), the stored energy should be somehow contained for a worst-case scenario.

That being said I know exactly what you mean. Can the regional require this since it is not in the official rules? I'm not sure that's okay.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

Ours is simply a loop of high- strength sailing line with a carabiner on it. Loops around the catapult, frame of the robot and back on itself. Giant orange streamer attached to remind us to take it off.

I'm not familiar with your design, but I can't imagine doing something similar is much more difficult for you guys.

-Brando

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

would a ball valve inline work for you?

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

I suggest asking Q&A, or more to the point, the frcteams email, to clarify if this particular "rule" has its origins at their level, and, in fact, where it originated. If it does not, they will hopefully clarify that. (And ask if you will need to follow it. If they say no, print the message, securely attach it to the robot, and if the event folks refuse to pass your inspection solely on the grounds that you did not comply with this, ask them to contact Al/HQ.)

Rules and rulings that DO NOT come from the GDC DO NOT have to be enforced, and should NOT be enforced.

Note: I don't disagree with the general concept. I HIGHLY disagree with the following: 1) It appears NOT to come from the GDC. 2) It happens AFTER WEEK 3 of competition--way too late. 3) FRC officials are being expected to enforce a rule/ruling that fits item #1 in this list, which is not in any Manual.

Oh, and 4): Only one event? Seriously? If you're gonna apply something like this, it needs to apply to every event after the date of issue, or to no events at all.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

Martin,

I'd ask a very direct question on the Q&A as soon as possible. Individual events should not have additional robot requirements that either supplement or contradict the FRC Manual / Q&A. If this ruling was created in conjunction with the GDC, then it needs to be publicized to all teams through an official form of communication (i.e. A Team Update).

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

Small-picture: Ratcheting tow strap looped around? 4901 uses one to fine-tune its release point, but a second one could easily cinch down and prevent firing.

Big-picture: I'm not thrilled with regionals adding "rules" that are not in the competition manual. Many are well-intentioned, but they are infuriating to me as a competitor. (Don't get me started on labeling the main breaker.) Have you tried emailing FRC Team Support?

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

We figured that we would be asked to have a safety lock on the robot because of the safety rules. (And were worried about moving it without one even though it is very difficult to accidentally release our shooter.) We used a steel shaft through holes on the robot frame, but at least a couple of teams I saw used rope and carabiner or bungee cords. The inspectors at Crossroads were helpful with suggestions.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

After looking at the picture of your robot on the blue alliance, I would suggest asking if you could put a removable guard in place of a lock. By guard I mean a tube that would go on the end of the vacuum so even if it was to fire, it would not hit anything. I know this is not the perfect solution but it could be an option (I think).

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

We had already intended to have a safety interlock on our mechanism; not because the rules or inspectors may require it, but because I would rather not have the robot seriously maim any of our team members. These launchers are dangerous mechanisms.

Here's our simple interlock for a pneumatic launcher: PVC piece that clips over a cylinder rod to keep it in an extended position, so that a dry fire results in no movement.

Re: New robot rules at Peachtree
 

^This^

The question needs to be asked (something like this ... add or update it to make it better): "Does an individual regional, or district event, have the authority to create and enforce additional rules and requirements without these rules and requirements coming from the official FIRST Q&A or Team updates?"