Battery Charger Modification Kits Available

[ebarker]

Originally Posted by dlavery

A request has been submitted to FIRST to have the rule amended to permit these types of modifications (which are effectively safety improvements). However, until that request is approved and a change to the rule is actually put in place, you are running a risk by modifying the battery charger.

-dave

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Dave,

Thanks for pointing out Rule <R67> and to whoever submitted the rule amendment request to FIRST. We missed that one.

Often times you will see banks of chargers in the pits charging batteries. The chargers are usually accumulated from prior years and meet the requirement in <R48>. Last year there was a very much improved safety across the board in Atlanta on this issue. I distinctly remember our team moving into the GWCC and before we could even get into our pit safety inspectors told us that there was widespread compliance.

Without getting into a lot of legalisms I suppose one could leave the 2008 charger at home and use another charger without violating <R48> or <R67>.

We will enthusiastically support the decision FIRST announces.

Until then you can our device and wire it into an interstage adapter. Basically take our gizmo and connect it to two posts inside of a box. Then take the charger clips and connect it to the posts (sort of like battery posts). And secure well.

Thanks to all

[RyanN]

If for some reason this is not changed... you can get your spare Anderson Connector, strip the wire back, clamp the charger leads on, and tape it up to insulate it. Therefore, you never do change the battery charger, and the rules will allow it. (Plus, I don't see the inspectors asking, "May we see your battery charger to make sure you didn't alter it in any way?")

[ebarker]

We have posted on our website a FAQ about this program here.

It addresses:
a - How the website works and collects money.
b - Where the money flows.
c - Who touches the money, and who doesn't.
d - The other, non-obvious reasons we have this program.
e - And a little about how you can employ a non-profit foundation to support your team or school.

The answers for more questions will be posted as necessary.

Please also note that Team Update #4 announced that changing the battery charger clips to an Anderson connector is now approved.

It is recommended that this be done to your charger for safety purposes.

Teams have at least 5 options. You can:

0 - do nothing
1 - use a spare cable from the KOP
2 - buy parts from a distributer and build your own
3 - buy a cable assembly from AndyMark and modify it
3 - or buy this kit and we will provide the materials, and you will support the cause.

Please pick one and go to your competition safe and secure.

BTW -

The KOP and AndyMark cable assemblies are #6 wire suitable for connecting to batteries.

The charger modification kit is #10 wire stepped down to #18 gauge and ready to directly receive the #18 gauge wire that is on the charger, thereby reducing your hassle.

Good Luck !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[santosh]

Wow, this thing is awesome. We bought two for our team and they have worked great.
It truly does makes things a lot safer in the shop and work area.
I really love the idea of the proceeds going straight towards a good cause.
This is a really good idea of being able to help provide a safer environment for all while at the same time raising money for a really good cause.
This is one of the best purchases I have made in a while.

[Andrew Y.]

I just got our kit today and installed in about 5 minutes. WOW its much safer and much neater. I also think the cause is a great idea and back kell 100%.

I also have seen my share of horrific charger set ups, and some firework shows