2009 Distribution Block

[Cory]

Originally Posted by rc_cola1323

For one, on the distro block the terminals were very hard to work with. They would wiggle out. There were other small things that i do like about the new controller. The new distro block has everything included into a package. BTW, Cory what terminal connectors did you use one your batteries, they were really cool.

I think it's important to distinguish between IFI and third party manufacturers. IFI manufactured the control system. They are in no way responsible for the shortcomings of a product being used outside of it's intended application (the Rockwell Distribution Block)

As for our batteries, we just used standard ring terminals. We had 4 gauge monster wire, which was what looked different from most teams.

[R.C.]

Originally Posted by Cory

I think it's important to distinguish between IFI and third party manufacturers. IFI manufactured the control system. They are in no way responsible for the shortcomings of a product being used outside of it's intended application (the Rockwell Distribution Block)

As for our batteries, we just used standard ring terminals. We had 4 gauge monster wire, which was what looked different from most teams.

Oh, otherwise IFI products were great. Can you give me link to the standard ring terminals. Thanks Cory

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Please note that the Rockwell block has a specification for strip length that teams chose to ignore. Without stripping to 5/8", the wire was guaranteed to push out as the screws were tightened. The new Waco blocks have a similar specification. You must strip 1/2" of insulation for the wire to be properly terminated in the 745-85X block according to the manufacturer. You must strip 1/3" of insulation for the wire to be properly terminated in the 745-38X block according to the manufacturer. Their ability to stand up to robot movement will be tested during the beta testing. Please standby...

We might as well get this discussion going early, so let everyone know what the spec is.

[IndySam]

Well said Al. We never had a single failure withe the Rockwell. Properly used they were very reliable.

Any product improperly used is subject to failure.

[jonboy]

I also agree we Al.

I think we should remember GP and realize that everyone associated with the FIRST organization is trying with all their ability to do their best and that no one is perfect. As for the IR receiver board we did not have a problem with it and appreciated the introduction of a new component. All we did was follow the directions on how to install and use. My impression was the developer and producer was trying his best and probably at a sacrifice to some other more important business or personal endeavors. It seems that anytime there is change introduced to a system especially trying to make an improvement in technology there are going to be some rough spots to be dealt with. GP goes a long way to separate FIRST from many other organizations. Let us all pull together to improve our technology, hardware, software and most importantly the culture for the students. Constructive criticism works the best! Reading and following the documentation works very well too.

[dlavery]

Although not necessarily a fan of the Rockwell distribution block because of its size, we had no complaints about its performance. We followed the manufacturers directions regarding wire prep. All inbound wires were secured with strain reliefs. We used wires of the appropriate gauge size, and left the ends loose (unsoldered). As a result, we never had a problem with wires working loose from the block during the entire season. We checked the clamp screws periodically to see if there was an issue, but found that they never worked loose and did not need to be retightened.

Although I have not had a chance to play with one yet (c'mon, when are they going to announce who is in the beta test program? ), I expect that the 2009 distribution block will perform just as well if reasonable care is taken to use it properly. Follow the manufacturers recommendations, use the correct wire size, tie down all wires properly (this is a VERY important step - anticipate that wire bundles will be vibrating and shaking, and apply appropriate countermeasures to minimize the transmitted forces), tighten everything to spec, and I suspect that you won't see a whole lot of problems.

-dave


.

[RyanN]

We never had any issues with the Rockwell PD Blocks. Although the screws did start to back off after a while, or maybe the wire was shifting around a little, we never did lose power, and all we did was tighten the screws more. After one tightening, all was well.

Also, I'd imagine that the smaller wire sizes will make a difference with how they're secured. I've never had any issue with smaller wires coming out of this compression type of connection. There's a right wire size for every hole. If the new PD block manufactures did their homework, then I believe everything will go well.

[Cory]

We never had an issue with the Rockell PDB other than it being massive and the fact that we loved the IFI breaker board.

One of the reasons is probably that we used 4 gauge wire instead of 6.

It seemed like too many teams who really know what they are doing *did* have trouble, though.

[=Martin=Taylor=]

Originally Posted by dlavery

Although not necessarily a fan of the Rockwell distribution block because of its size, we had no complaints about its performance. We followed the manufacturers directions regarding wire prep. All inbound wires were secured with strain reliefs. We used wires of the appropriate gauge size, and left the ends loose (unsoldered). As a result, we never had a problem with wires working loose from the block during the entire season. We checked the clamp screws periodically to see if there was an issue, but found that they never worked loose and did not need to be retightened.

This is very good advice. Thank you. I'll remind the electrical people to actually read the manual next time

For the record, it never gave us any trouble either, but sometimes when we checked it we found that one of the wires was falling out

What method do teams use to secure the wires prior to entering the block?

[ATannahill]

I am a great wire maker (cutting, stripping and crimping) so i am not fond of the PD block used the past two years. But going with the team tradition of needing to bend an instrument before the screw turns, we had no problem keeping the wires in. I am also sad to see crimping being reduced so much.

[EricVanWyk]

Originally Posted by rtfgnow

I am also sad to see crimping being reduced so much.

Wow. I just lost a $20 bet.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by EricVanWyk

Wow. I just lost a $20 bet.

Erik,
We can't let that go! Do tell?!?

Also, are the PDs shipping with hardware and are the studs metric?

[EricVanWyk]

Originally Posted by Al Skierkiewicz

Eric,
We can't let that go! Do tell?!?

Also, are the PDs shipping with hardware and are the studs metric?

I bet that no one would ever miss crimping, as it is one of the major sources of faults in the power system. A single poor crimp can and will take down a robot spectacularly. Personally, I've been wanting to remove failure modes since I started back in high school.

[Greg Marra]

Originally Posted by EricVanWyk

I bet that no one would ever miss crimping, as it is one of the major sources of faults in the power system. A single poor crimp can and will take down a robot spectacularly. Personally, I've been wanting to remove failure modes since I started back in high school.

Next thing you know they'll take away radio issues and popping the main breaker!