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Unread 24-01-2017, 12:59
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AKA: Alan Richman
FRC #1257 (Parallel Universe)
Team Role: Electrical
 
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Re: Separate Powered Flashlights?

Marshall,
I agree with you. I think that those questions need answering and that the definition of when non-robot batteries is something that needs to be revised, specified, and re-thought.

But for now, I think that the solution FIRST will be going with is relying on LRIs to make the distinction. Yes, this can lead to a robot being legal at one event and not at the next. Yes, this is not a good solution. Yes, something should be done to remedy this. But I have trouble believing that those upstairs will make this distinction this season.

My interpretation of the rule on whether it is integral or not are to ask the following questions:
Can I power this device without using it's battery and without plugging it into the wall?
A cellphone that requires the battery to be inserted to run would be allowed to use its battery. A drill where you can just power the terminals with a motor controller would not.

If it is possible to power without it's battery or plugging it into a wall, is it safe to do so?
I cannot think of any examples where it would not be safe but still possible off the top of my head but I'm sure one exists. A Raspberry Pi can be powered without a battery pack very easily and it is perfectly safe. So in this case you would have to power it with the robot battery.

I know, it doesn't solve everything. Even though the manual does not use these words here, it appears that they expect a "reasonably astute observer" to be able to say whether or not it is integral.
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1257 Parallel Universe: 2014 - 2017 Seasons
2017: Vice President, Control Systems Captain, Drive Coach
2016: Control Systems Captain, Operator. MAR District Championship Winner, MAR Mt. Olive Event Winner, MAR Bridgewater-Raritan Event Finalist
2015: Control Systems, Operator. MAR North Brunswick Event Finalist
2014: Programming/Electronics Apprentice. MAR Clifton Event Winner
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