R79
Compressed air on the ROBOT must be provided by one and only one compressor. Compressor specifications may not exceed nominal 12VDC, 1.05 cfm flow rate.
R80
Off-board compressors are permitted, however the compressor must be controlled and powered by the ROBOT.
The compressor may be mounted on the ROBOT, or it may be left off the ROBOT and used to pre-charge compressed air in storage tanks on the ROBOT
The intent of this rule is to permit teams to take advantage of the weight savings associated with keeping the compressor off-board. However, using the compressor off-board of the ROBOT does NOT permit non-compliance with any other applicable rules.
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Aloha,
Sorry to say, the rules seem to point out that only one compressor can be used by the robot... Yes keeping a spare compressor on hand is wise in case of failure.
I believe if you used on "off board" compressor super cooled as suggested, or had the team fanning it, then install in back on the robot prior to a match, that would be within the current rules.
Though definitely not in the spirit of them.
A lot is thought out for safety during competitions. There are many people and pressurized systems moving around the area. I remember hearing 115psi tanks exploding close by in the pits.. Plastic shrapnel is a bad deal.
Plus many teams are small and vacate the pit when practicing/playing/scouting and having a hot compressor laying about getting possibly knocked over or burning a button hunter is bad... I mean buttons - You gotta gettem all....
We understand your dilemma.. Here in Kona it is about 82 every day, sorry, and dealing with compressor heat, on or off board, is just what you have to deal with..
Good luck this season, and install a fan or two with some shrouding.....
A good teaching moment about thermodynamics.
....