[pilum40]

Great idea for threaded rod. We too are working through the concept using a CIM motor through a Modulox transmission we had in parts (yes, we put it together) to turn the screw. Have y'all tried out this screw yet? We mocked a prototype using one of the IGUS screws, and plastic parts we get from FIRST. We used a window motor simply because the screw we used was out of parts bin and had a "custom-made" (hand fab'd) hub already on it. The window motor was way too slow. What type of motor are you going to use? I'm thinking CIM is way too much in a direct mode but may work ok stepped down a little. What do you think? I like simple because it's less to crap out during competition and my younger students can see success in a shorter amount of time. We are working with a company called Nook to make us a custom threaded rod and support flanges (one for the top...one for the bottom). I still like Robot in 3 Days Team Indiana's approach except we'll use a mechanical (geared) version of the crab claw because our expertise in pneumatics is limited and time is short. When in doubt...gear it out! We too have our base driving in week one and should decide on a plan Tuesday. Can't work today because our school closes early as we are 1/2 mile from the NCAA National Football Championship venue at Jerry Jones' World. Please let me know what you think and drop me news of your team's updates via PM here on CD.
Robot on!!!

Steve Miller
Coach-Team 3355-Purple Vipers (you like Pink? We gots PURPLE!!!)