Clutches

[JMR15RTC]

Does anyone know if it is legal to use pneumatic or 12 volt clutches?
Thanks!

[RRLedford]

These items are legal as long as they are readily available to all other teams ("common off the shelf" items), do not require violating pneumatic rules (safety rated to 125PSI & operate OK at under 60 PSI max) or voltage limit (no 24V units), and meet perhaps the biggest challenge (especially for the HIGHER TORQUE units) of not exceeding the budgetary co$t limit$!!

-RRLedford

[AJ R]

Electric clutches are electric solenoids, and are prohibited by rule R53.

<R53> Items specifically PROHIBITED from use on the ROBOT include:
A. Electric motors and/or servos different from, or in addition to, those in the KOP, with the exception of those specifically permitted by Rule <R52>.
B. Electric solenoid actuators (note: electric solenoid actuators are NOT the same as pneumatic solenoid valves – the latter are permitted, the former are not).

[Al Skierkiewicz]

JMR,
The electric clutches have been deemed electric solenoids in the past and as such are not allowed on the robot. Certain eddy current devices have been used in the past as there is no parts that are pulled together as in the operation of the solenoids. Any device of this type requires a closer inspection by the lead inspector and some consultation. My suggestion is to ask the Q&A stating the model you are considering.

<R53> Items specifically PROHIBITED from use on the ROBOT include:
A. Electric motors and/or servos different from, or in addition to, those in the KOP, with the exception of those specifically permitted by Rule <R52>.
B. Electric solenoid actuators (note: electric solenoid actuators are NOT the same as pneumatic solenoid valves – the latter are permitted, the former are not).

[RRLedford]

Being a rookie I did not catch the <R53> prohibition of electro-MAGNETIC solenoids for linear motion. Too bad, since they are so useful for applying a strong, short-travel force from a small package at a cheap price. I wonder what the concern is about them to prohibit their use? They are integrated into virtually all machines, appliances, etc.
-RRLedford

[jgannon]

Originally Posted by RRLedford

I wonder what the concern is about them to prohibit their use?

This is pure speculation, but I've always assumed that it was related to this clause from <R54>: "So that the maximum power level of every ROBOT is the same". I can envision converting the linear motion of a large, powerful solenoid into rotary motion, and consequently circumventing the motor rules.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Dick,
It is something I have discussed as a change for several years. Among other concerns, their use under our conditions can cause significant electrical loads that are not currently addressed. As the only relay we have at our disposal is a 20 amp device and contains no inductive kick protection, that also may enter into the decision. I would think that a 10-15 amp load restriction would cover that concern and the Spike is certainly capable of driving a single solenoid load with a snubber diode without self destruction. Maybe in the future.