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Unread 08-11-2006, 08:34
Unsung FIRST Hero
Al Skierkiewicz Al Skierkiewicz is offline
Broadcast Eng/Chief Robot Inspector
AKA: Big Al WFFA 2005
FRC #0111 (WildStang)
Team Role: Engineer
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Rookie Year: 1996
Location: Wheeling, IL
Posts: 10,798
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Re: Custom Chargers for backup battery

Larry et al,
As I have said in this thread and elsewhere, I am not happy with the design of the IFI charge circuit. I would rather have a charger that indicates a fully charged battery and takes up zero weight and size on the robot. The only way to get all of those items is to take the time to take the battery off the robot and stick it in a charger in the pit. Easy, safe, and sure that the battery is charged. I like the idea of conversion to power poles as well. (hates Molex)
On another note from an experienced inspector...When mounting the backup battery, don't velcro to the top of the RC. As convenient as that is it blocks the tally lights on the RC from inspection during on-field troubleshooting by IFI and field personnel.
As a suggestion to IFI, if there is going to be a change in RC design, I would allow the main battery to feed the servo power through steering diodes so that the backup has less current draw during normal match operation. This would allow the backup to feed camera servos and normal battery fail circuitry while allowing the main battery to power everything else during the period in which the robot is turned on during matches.
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Good Luck All. Learn something new, everyday!
Al
WB9UVJ
www.wildstang.org
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Storming the Tower since 1996.

Last edited by Al Skierkiewicz : 08-11-2006 at 08:38.