safety of ATV whip

[JHSmentor]

Well - seems that the ATV whip is out.

But, there are many types (or grades?) of composite rod that might work for this application. Fiberglass or aluminum tent poles, or fishing rods (not the little flimsy ones) that can practically bend in half.

Has anyone tried anything like that? It's something we may look into more - but if someone else already has then that would be very helpful.

[Daniel_LaFleur]

Originally Posted by JHSmentor

Well - seems that the ATV whip is out.

But, there are many types (or grades?) of composite rod that might work for this application. Fiberglass or aluminum tent poles, or fishing rods (not the little flimsy ones) that can practically bend in half.

Has anyone tried anything like that? It's something we may look into more - but if someone else already has then that would be very helpful.

I wouldn't say "it's out", but I would make sure there is plenty of safety margin and that you have that safety margin documented for the inspectors. I'd also make sure that the locking system that holds it in place is VERY robust.

[JHSmentor]

Originally Posted by Daniel_LaFleur

I wouldn't say "it's out", but I would make sure there is plenty of safety margin and that you have that safety margin documented for the inspectors. I'd also make sure that the locking system that holds it in place is VERY robust.

Agreed!!

I looked into using fishing rods but they are not flexible enough and will definitely break.

Tent poles may work but the larger diameter ones that I found were not flexible enough either. Smaller diameter ones may work but may not be strong enough or durable. So, at this point, I'm not convinced this is a viable option.

[Bill_B]

So it appears that ATVs are unsafe for more than one reason.

If you are using this to lift an attachment hook off the back/top of your robot, you should consider a much easier and more reliable method. Take a look at your retractable tape measures and figure out why they can be extended as far as they do without "wilting." If you are looking for another example, look up the Mars Viking lander digging mechanism. Now there was a robot!