[archiver]

Posted by Daniel.

Coach on team BORG (Berkeley Operational Robotics Group) from Berkeley High School sponsored by (working on the sponsor, too).

Posted on 1/14/2000 1:26 PM MST


In Reply to: re: extended arm posted by Patrick Seeney on 1/14/2000 11:51 AM MST:



Hey guys,

I asked Eric that very question a little while ago. Here is my question and his responce:


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Question:
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Tethered Projectiles

According to S7, the only projectiles a robot is allowed to launch are balls. How do we define projectiles? For example, say a robot is designed to shoot a grappling hook onto the center bar. Since the hook is tethered, would this be considered a projectile? Would it be in violation of DA4? What precautions would need to be taken to eliminate this problem? For example, the hook could be attached to the end of telescoping tubing that causes it to move in a linear path, which makes it more like an elevator powered by surgical tubing.


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Answer:
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We will use a common-sense definition of a projectile. To attempt to put that into words, it would be something as follows: A projectile is an unsupported object that goes flying out from the robot and follows a parabolic path. A flying grappling hook would be considered a projectile even though it might be attached to the robot with a tether cord. The tether would prevent it from violating Rule DA4, but might present a risk of entanglement and violate Rule M18.

Putting a hook on the end of a telescoping tube would mean that it is not interpreted as a projectile. The hook itself would then need to be designed so as not to present a risk of entanglement or have sharp points that would present a safety hazard.

-Eric