Robots structure

[DHSrobotics]

What are the structural requirements for the robots structure that supports the robot.

[IndySam]

you need to be much more specific.

[DHSrobotics]

Do we need something thicker than sheet metal to attach the bumpers too. And if so what?
Also does that backup structure have to go the full hieght of the bumper backup structure?
Thanks

[IndySam]

<R07>M. The entire length of the BUMPER backing must be supported by the structure/frame of the ROBOT (i.e. the backing material must not be in “free space” between or beyond attachment points) (see Figure 8 – 3).

I wouldn't think just pain sheet metal wouldn't meet this requirements. I know last year most inspectors wouldn't have accepted that. If you bent it and made it more structural that would be a different story.

The structure doesn't have to be full height of the bumper. The most common backing structure is 1" square tube.

[DHSrobotics]

thanks thats what we needed

[staloch]

WE always just use 1 in angle aluminum for the backing if there is a gap or spot and it has all ways been allowed for us

[RyanCahoon]

Then again, take the game into consideration in your design. In 2008, our front bumper support made from 1x1 Al tube welded to the frame had bent partway through competition in Atlanta and had to be replaced. Perhaps 2 regionals and half a championship is more than the average team's run requirement, but something to keep in mind. Anticipating more impacts this year than 2008 as well.

[MrForbes]

It sounds to me like the intent of the rule is that you make the frame that supports the bumper out of the same stuff that you make the rest of the robot frame out of.

What you can get away with is another thing.

[IKE]

Originally Posted by squirrel

What you can get away with is another thing.

I found this easily formable sheet metal made by Reynolds in my pantry. I am not sure what the metalurgy is, but it is really light!

[fuzzy1718]

WHat we do is attach angl iron to the bumpers themselves. It isn't actually part of the robot, but part of the bumpers. If you can make the bumper weight it is a great way to increase your total weight without having your robot go over its limit.

[Alan Anderson]

Originally Posted by fuzzy1718

WHat we do is attach angl iron to the bumpers themselves. It isn't actually part of the robot, but part of the bumpers.

Unfortunately, angle iron is not an allowed component of a standard bumper this year.

Maybe you could get away with it if it's part of the fastening structure, but as part of the bumper backing you'd have to use aluminum as specified in the rules.

[fuzzy1718]

we use tabs to protude up from the frame, so technically there is open space, but the angle iron provides a backing that attaches to the tabs. The bumper rules havn't changed from last year other than height and % coverage, so it should be fine... I think.