using cylinders as guides

[jschinell]

We have cylinders that can not be used as actuators per this years rules, but we would like to use them as linear guides with no pneumatic tubing connected to them. Can we do that??:

POBOTs team 353

[David]

i don't see why not as long as you can't power them. if the judges get upset cut a slot in the side and say its not a cylinder

[jgannon]

This is definitely a question for the Q&A. Pardon me for going a little bit zen here, but when is a pneumatic not a pneumatic? If there's no air being pumped into it, is it still a pneumatic, or just a metal cylinder with a striking resemblance?

My best guess is that it will not be allowed. I remember there being a Q&A in a past year where someone asked if they could use an additional, otherwise illegal motor on their robot, but without powering it. The GDC ruled that it was still a motor, even without power. In any case, these issues are only somewhat related, and rules from past years are not necessarily applicable to this year's game, you should ask the GDC to be sure.

[Mike Betts]

Originally Posted by jschinell

We have cylinders that can not be used as actuators per this years rules, but we would like to use them as linear guides with no pneumatic tubing connected to them. Can we do that??:

POBOTs team 353

This is definitely a question for the FIRST Q&A and I strongly suggest that your team post it.

In my opinion, if there is no connection to the air ports and they are open so that no pressure can build up, the component would not be pneumatic and can be used.

Note that it must be COTS, you would have to account for the cost in your BOM and you must demonstrate to the inspector that it is safe.

JMHO.

Mike

[jschinell]

Many thanks
we posted to FRC Q&A

[kmcclary]

Definitely use the Q&A answer, but be very very careful how you POSE the question!

IF the cylinders are COTS coupon-equivalent and unmodified, and are not being used in a specifically excluded purpose (such as for additional air storage), then what's the concern? Per <R45> and <R105>, this year you're allowed to use as many as you wish! IMO there's no reason to request a ruling.

You weren't specific on the specs of the cylinders in question. IMHO, The only situation where a ruling should be requested is if you're using a cylinder whose bore-stroke combination is NOT on the ordering coupon. Then you have the "is it a cylinder or a mechanical part" question.

Is that the case here?

- Keith McClary
Chief Engineer, Team 1502 "Technical Difficulties"

[kmcclary]

Originally Posted by jschinell

Many thanks
we posted to FRC Q&A

Was it ever answered? If so, what was the result (and your opinion of it)?

- Keith McClary
Chief Engineer, Team 1502 "Technical Difficulties"