Flux Rings

[Munchskull]

So I was researching the smaller motors yesterday and I started to read about the flux ring that confines the magnetic field. That lead me to the question of how big of an effective does the flux ring have on their performance?

Also a second cosmetics questions. Would it be against the rules to laser etch or paint you team logo on the flux ring of a motor?

[GeeTwo]

As to performance, I do not know, though I have read observations that it reduces top speed and conjecture that it may improve torque.

As to marking, the applicable rule from 2015 is:

Originally Posted by 2015 Game Manual

R19 The integral mechanical and electrical system of any motor may not be modified. Motors, servos, and electric solenoids used on the ROBOT shall not be modified in any way, except as follows:

• A. The mounting brackets and/or output shaft/interface may be modified to facilitate the physical connection of the motor to the ROBOT and actuated part.
• B. The electrical input leads may be trimmed to length as necessary.
• C. The locking pins on the window motors (P/N: 262100-3030 and 262100-3040) may be removed.
• D. The connector housings on window, door, windshield wiper or seat motors and Bosch motors (P/N: 6004 RA3 353-01)
• may be modified to facilitate lead connections.

Painting would certainly not modify the integral electrical and mechanical system (unless it were acid paint, or something else that modified the strength or electrical characteristics of the motor parts). Etching would (if the 2016 rules match this) be a Q&A issue, for which I would expect that it is OK, but the rules committee might decide that even a tiny bit of metal removed modifies the magnetic field, and therefore the electrical system. If you ask the question, I would suggest asking the full question as to whether the flux ring can be removed; not that you necessarily would want to, but if it's not an option, it'll save some testing. If removing the flux ring were allowed, I would probably want to have that motor as far away from the radio and any signal lines as possible.

[Teched3]

I had a discussion regarding flux ring removal many years ago with Joe Johnson. He was working for Delphi at the time, and was a lead mentor for Chief Delphi Team 47. Removal of the flux ring will significantly reduce moror performance. Maybe Joe will read this thread and chime in on this question.

[Dennis5045]

You should see no problems till you get up to 88 mph. The rings reduce RPM, but increase torque and efficiency.

[Munchskull]

Originally Posted by Dennis5045

You should see no problems till you get up to 88 mph. The rings reduce RPM, but increase torque and efficiency.

So would you say flux ring removal could be an effective way to to speedup a motor without changing the gear reduction? Also it would be cool to see Vex do their motor test with out the flux ring.