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Unread 01-02-2012, 03:39
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Tristan Lall Tristan Lall is offline
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FRC #0188 (Woburn Robotics)
 
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Re: Converting 12v to 24v

This question has come up before.

In 2005, the rules were different, and all electronic "motor[s], solenoid[s], pump[s] or other actuator[s]" were prohibited, other than the ones in the KOP. (This type of clutch is either a solenoid or other actuator.)

In 2010, the rules were more similar to 2012. In that case, the Q&A noted that if the clutch did not contain a prohibited actuator (and implicitly, did not violate any other rules), it would be allowable. In 2010, there was some unresolved discussion about whether the clutch contained a true solenoid, or merely some other type of electromagnetic actuator.

For 2012, [R48] provides a new complication, because it now says "The only motors and actuators permitted on 2012 FRC Robots include" instead of "Motors specifically permitted on 2010 FRC ROBOTS include". This means that a new restriction on actuators has been explicitly added for this year.

Therefore, if the clutch contains a solenoid, then that solenoid must meet the specifications from the rulebook for the clutch to be legal. If the clutch does not contain an appropriate solenoid (or other thing from [R48]), it's a prohibited actuator. (Of course, the device must also meet all other rules, particularly the ones dealing with custom circuits and power regulating devices for actuators.)

I think the rule is clear in its meaning, but not so clear in its intent. Why ban a device that was previously allowed, even as you allow solenoids for the first time in over 10 years (and possibly ever)? You might therefore want to raise it in the Q&A not for clarification, but with the intention of prompting FIRST to change the rule.