Al's Annual Inspection Thread

[Al Skierkiewicz]

OK,
Another year and another list. As we wind down to stop build in a few days, teams should be thinking about inspections coming up and should be performing a pre-bag inspection of their own.
1. The inspection checklist and the BOM template are both located here...
http://frc-manual.usfirst.org/
2. As Q&A or Team Updates modify robot rules, the Checklist may also change to reflect the rules change.
3. Stored Energy. Just about every robot will have some form of stored energy this year. To keep safety in mind at all times, springs will get an extra look by your inspectors. You may be asked to "dry fire" a shooting mechanism to check for the possibility of "destructive disassembly". If you are using COTS springs, please think about adding some type of cable (aircraft cable preferred) to keep the parts together should the spring crack or fracture. If you are using surgical tubing or some other form of latex or rubber, please be sure to have the ends secure. Inspectors may ask Safety Advisers for assistance in determining the safety of these mechanisms.
4. Bumpers. These are an issue every year and I am only mentioning them here so you can think about them. Bumpers do not need to be included in your bag with the robot. You do need them at competition and they will be required for practice rounds on the field. There has been a recent Team Update that allows you to use tape or other fasteners to affix the pool noodles to the "robust wood" to aid you in making pretty bumpers while you secure the fabric covering. Whatever method you choose, the intent is not to change the overall cross section of the pool noodle or compress it nor to add hard parts beyond the 1" dimension from the frame. Please refer to Fig. 4-8 for guidance.
5. Pneumatics. As last year, you are allowed to use any 12 volt DC compressor that does not exceed 1.05 cfm. If your compressor is not a common type, please be ready to provide documentation to show it meets spec. A new compressor that has become available requires a stainless steel, woven hose ( provided and as stated in the manufacturer's spec sheet) for operation. That has been ruled by the Q&A as part of the compressor and must be included. Reminder that pneumatics parts must be unmodified COTS devices rated for 125 psi working pressure.
More to follow, good luck everyone.