[dtengineering]

I'd suggest that while this is a cool application, that you probably don't want to have your pneumatics "pressured up" while you are in the pit, working on the robot, and especially not if they are the only thing holding a "hood" (or, in this case, bumpers and the attached frame) up over hands and heads working on the machine.

What I might suggest, instead, is gas shocks, similar to the tailgate of a minivan or hatchback, and then, before a competition you just lower the bumper/frame combo into place and hold it down with a good, solid latch or nut.

Do keep in mind, however, that those bumpers will be getting bumped. The maximum pushing force of a robot is somewhere around 200 lbs. The impact force is greater still. Make sure the articulated part of your frame can withstand repeated impacts.

But it should look cool, however you pull it off,

Jason