[Daniel Morse]

During my time on my team, we have had two robots with pneumatics ('03,'04) and two without (05',06'). It is pretty much the same problems that get us every year, weight and performance of the compressor (too weak). In the past we have had very intensive, repetitive operations to be performed by pneumatics, and we have to wait for them to recharge (only one compressor, and many jobs) in order to complete an operation, which, as you know, is a huge liability. Also, we often cannot afford the weight, the performance is simply not high enough to justify us using it. On the pro side, the pneumatics give us a way to apply constant force without having to have a motor bias to maintain it, and are a great way to bring something to the same position over and over again. Speed is also a plus. The last two years we have used no pneumatics, and it has worked out for us in a positive way. 3 and 4 years ago, we used pneumatics and really, I don't think anyone has any regrets. When it comes down to it, after four years with seeing the results of both using and not using pneumatics, it seems to really depend on what you are trying to accomplish and what demands are to be placed on the system. After looking at these factors, you can make an informed decision as to what you need.