questions regarding <R73> [pneumatics rules]

[smcmahon]

We're using pneumatics for the FIRST time this year. We have what would be considered an OFF-board compressor. <R73> states:

<R73> If pneumatic components are used on the ROBOT, the pneumatic system on the ROBOT must contain as a minimum the following components, connected in accordance with this section.
A. Pressure gauges to display the “stored” and “working” air pressure (see Rule <R75>),
B. A pressure relief valve, calibrated and set to release at 125psi (see Rule <R76>),
C. A pressure switch, calibrated and connected to the ROBOT control system (see Rule <R77>),
D. An easily visible and accessible pressure vent valve to manually relieve the stored pressure
(see Rule <R78>).

[A.] We have a pressure gauge on our system, that will show what the current PSI is onboard. It's mounted inline after where the air initially comes in, and before everything else. Sound OK? With the regulator more than likely being OFF-board, then we'd need only one gauge on the robot I imagine.
[B.] We need to install this directly on the (OFF-board) compressor.
[C.] We do not have this. It seems, to me, that there is no use for it since we have no ON-board compressor. But the rule states we need it, as a minimum. So? What would it get hooked up to? We're confused.
[D.] We have this on the robot, right where the main air comes in. If I understand correctly, we need another one on the other end, coming out of the compressor? <R78>

[EricH]

Originally Posted by smcmahon

[A.] We have a pressure gauge on our system, that will show what the current PSI is onboard. It's mounted inline after where the air initially comes in, and before everything else. Sound OK? With the regulator more than likely being OFF-board, then we'd need only one gauge on the robot I imagine.

Presumably. However, why do you only want 60 PSI on the robot? Presumably, you'd want 120 PSI, which means two gauges. Also, you'll need a gauge on the compressor, most likely.

[B.] We need to install this directly on the (OFF-board) compressor.

Correct. <R76>

[C.] We do not have this. It seems, to me, that there is no use for it since we have no ON-board compressor. But the rule states we need it, as a minimum. So? What would it get hooked up to? We're confused.

Put it on the compressor side. Because you're running only 60PSI on the robot, your high-pressure side is the compressor and anything with it. Then make darn sure your regulator goes with the compressor. <R77> (Though, if you put more high-pressure stuff on the robot, put it there instead.)

[D.] We have this on the robot, right where the main air comes in. If I understand correctly, we need another one on the other end, coming out of the compressor? <R78>

Correct.

Now, remember: Anything said here is unofficial. If you want an official answer, ask the Q&A.

[smcmahon]

Thanks EricH. We're actually on terms with the LGI for our Regional, so I've also forwarded these clarification requests to him as well. Between your insight and his, we should be legal and ready to go by day's end.

[45Auto]

We used an off-board compressor two years ago. Our understanding was that all components that would be in an ON-BOARD system still had to be there except for the compressor. We had 2 electrical leads coming from our ON-BOARD switch that we would connect to the compresssor, and had a quick connect air fitting on the compressor that connected to the feed line on the robot. All relief valves, regulators, gauges, etc were on the robot. Only thing not on the robot was the compressor itself.

Had no problems with inspections at all at either the regionals or championship.