How do those winch-loaded shooters work?

[Jeffy]

Originally Posted by hillale

We ran our Overdrive shooter with just one motor and no other actuation. Able to reload in approx 1.5 seconds, if I recall correctly (with a whole lot more stress on it than this year requires).

Here's a pic of it engaged and ready to fire:

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/photos/31538

Here's a pic of it unloaded:

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/media/photos/31539

Extremely efficient and simple, just have to grasp the concept. Feel free to ask any other questions.

This is I think the 3rd time I have tried to figure out that linkage, and it clicked, I get it, and realize how simple it really is. It does require a non-backdriveable transmission though, correct?

Thanks alot, It is likely we will use something like this.

[Mr_I]

Originally Posted by Jeffy

This is I think the 3rd time I have tried to figure out that linkage, and it clicked, I get it, and realize how simple it really is. It does require a non-backdriveable transmission though, correct?

While a non-backdrivable transmission will do the trick, it can be done without. If you consider how the linkages work, when the main sprocket is at the "ready to fire" position, there is very little force driving the sprocket either forward or backward. If you use a position sensor that can stop the sprocket at this "ready" location, the sprocket won't move until you say "fire!" and push it just past this point.

[Aren_Hill]

Originally Posted by Jeffy

It does require a non-backdriveable transmission though, correct?

Yes it does, we acquired this trait in the form of a Dewalt XRP gearbox with a FP driving it (which also gave us a vital speed reduction).

Other options include worms gears, or a one way ratchet system (one of the easier ways, think box end ratchet wrench and a hex on the shaft)

I say it requires it for general safety, we always had the "ready to fire" position far enough away from tripped to prevent accidental firing from sharp contacts or such.