First Time Pneumatics

[Peter Matteson]

1. If you are using a small volume of air it is reasonable to use just the storage tanks. If you know how frequently you will actuate the pistons you can calculate the air volume and storage pressure necessary using the ideal gas law (P1)(V1)=(P2)(V2)

2. Use one of the pnuematic fittings prvided and charge through the vent valve. This is pretty much the only legal way because of the restrictions pnuematic parts. A quick connect won't pass inspection if it didn't come in the kit.

3. It's been argued frequently and it comes down to this is the way FIRST wants it done. Also I don't believe the PS is rated for the current.

[Richard Wallace]

Originally Posted by Peter Matteson

3. It's been argued frequently and it comes down to this is the way FIRST wants it done. Also I don't believe the PS is rated for the current.

Look here for the Nason model SM pressure switch ratings. Looks like the switch is rated for 5A, so it appears that SuperBK's suggestion (which many others have made before) would work. But as has already been pointed out, the rules that cover pneumatics connections for FRC robots are very clear. I guess that FIRST requires direct connection of the SM pressure switch to a RC digital input in order to simplify inspection -- it makes the wiring easier to trace. It also helps prevent a potentially dangerous connection of the pressure switch in series between one of the the compressor electrical leads and the Spike relay.