Safety Modifacations
 

Hey CD,

We on 2910 have been making good progress and have just completed the first all metal prototype of our climber mechanism. It works really well, but as our most recent tweet points out, it looks a little too... deadly.

What would you guys recommend for making this mechanism safer, but still retain its effectiveness?

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

Make sure the edges of the metal that grabs and holds the rope isn't sharp

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

Instead of (or in addition too) making the mechanism safer you could set more rigorous guidelines for interacting with the robot when it's under power. This includes things like keeping distance from the robot during testing. There should be no reason why anyone should be interacting with the climber during normal operation and if in the off chance it is necessary appropriate cautions can be taken.

This is what OSHA recommends for machinery that does not require human interaction (like a CNC mill).

Hardware wise I'd try to cut down the bolts to the nuts. They can be quite sharp.

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

File, file, file.

Polycarbonate/acrylic shielding for the chains/gears as well.

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

button head screws of the right length and acorn nuts would go a long way too.

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

Build a box around it.

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

- quick connect or switch on motor lead so that anyone working near it can visually ensure it is not powered.

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

Build a protective guard around the chain

Re: Safety Modifacations
 

+2

Support loose end of gear box shaft. There will be lot of stress on it. Support as suggested (Box), add a supporting rube with bearings to support both shafts (from VEX gear Box and the the big gear..