<R87> and vacuum

[smcmahon]

(wasn't sure of the proper forum for this...)

Rule <R87> states:
"For the purposes of the FIRST competition, a device that creates a vacuum is not considered to be a pneumatic device and is allowed. This includes, but is not limited to, venturi-type vacuum generators and off-the-shelf vacuum devices (as long as they are powered by provided or permitted motors)."

We are thinking about mounting a sort of Oreck vacuum on the chasis, and then a hose that runs out to the end of the arm, which can then use it's vacuum powers to lift/hold the trackball.

The rule referenced above stated it can be off the shelf, given that it uses "provided or permitted motors". This particular unit currently runs 110V AC. We'd have to somehow find a way to invert the power and manage the battery drain.

Can anyone comment on the legality of this idea?

And, if anyone is wondering, I did try to post this in the FIRST 2008 Q&A forum section, but it kept insisting I could not make a thread there. I am registered.