Charging pneumatics system before match

[Mike Betts]

Originally Posted by JamesCH95

We've got two pistons that retract the kicker, if the latch got bumped loose without the system energized the kicker would snap open. With the system energized the kicker is held firmly in place. Does that make sense?

At least when I was a student pre-charging the pneumatics was never an issue.

Pre-charging the pneumatics by itself is not a huge issue. However, this year, many teams are using that air pressure to deform springs. Weather latched or held by air, the deformed springs can and usually do present a hazard for your team members as they carry a robot on and off the field. In addition to your team members, there are issues with the field personnel and people in the pits.

Your statement that the air pressure holds the system in a safe configuration begs the question of what happens if an air hose lets loose.

Regards,

Mike