4 Controls/Electrical Questions

[Mr. Mac]

On behalf of team 469 I have some questions regarding the control box and electrical.

"1) Can we remove un-used components and there wires to save on weight? For instance, we may only need 2 Victors and 5 Spikes in our design.
2) Can cut or damaged wiring in the control box be replaced? Example, components were removed to service the F.I.R.S.T. robot, wires were cut by students not thinking that the system would have to be re-used for next years OCCRA program. The rules don't really say anything about this other than using the correct wire gauge/type. It is presumed that the wiring cannot be touched.
3) Can we install longer battery power leads to the breaker & ground? Example, our design does not permit the battery to be close enough to the control box to connect. We would rather have longer power cables at the box rather than on the battery itself.
4) can the control box itself be replaced (with exact size, type and brand)? Example, box was damaged/cracked, lid latches broken as result of previous seasons competition.

We know that based on the rules as written that the answers to the questions above would be NO. However I think that there should be some flexibility to those rules especially if the teams are expected to re-use there components every year. Maybe the rules as they are would apply to rookies with little or no experience and brand new kits and a modified rule set for the veteran teams that have to re-use kits year after year."

[Mike Martus]

1) Question:Can we remove un-used components and there wires to save on weight? For instance, we may only need 2 Victors and 5 Spikes in our design.

Answer: Yes. You may remove unused victors and spikes. However I must caution you not to re-wire or alter the box general configuration. Also, keep track of the parts you remove, you may need them.

2) Question: Can cut or damaged wiring in the control box be replaced? Example, components were removed to service the F.I.R.S.T. robot, wires were cut by students not thinking that the system would have to be re-used for next years OCCRA program. The rules don't really say anything about this other than using the correct wire gauge/type. It is presumed that the wiring cannot be touched.

Answer: Yes. We expect teams to make minor repairs to the control box. This includes repairing/replacing wires. Please be careful to use the same gauge, type and if possible color of wire.

3) Question: Can we install longer battery power leads to the breaker & ground? Example, our design does not permit the battery to be close enough to the control box to connect. We would rather have longer power cables at the box rather than on the battery itself.

Answer: Yes. Please make sure you use the correct wire gauge and strand. The color of the wire is important as is the approved connector.

4) Question: Can the control box itself be replaced (with exact size, type and brand)? Example, box was damaged/cracked, lid latches broken as result of previous seasons competition.

Answer: Yes. You may replace the control box with an exact replacement. It is important that all the electronics be protected as much as possible. Don't forget the strain relief.