Minibot switches...

[tuyauxtu]

So, just wondering if any teams have gone out on a limb and used a "switch" made from the allowed minibot materials with the purpose of mimicking a two-way switch but saving weight over a purchased item? If you've done this and been inspected at a competition were you allowed to compete in this manner? Feedback either way would be appreciated.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

tuy,
You can only use limit switches, a max of two lighting switches, and Tetrix switches on the minibot.

[jvriezen]

That doesn't sound right to me, Al. What's the problem with fabricating your own switch using the allowable MINIBOT materials such as aluminum and rubber bands? Can you cite a rule or Q&A ?

John Vriezen
FIRST FRC team 2530 "Inconceivable"
Mentor, Drive Coach, Inspector

[Al Skierkiewicz]

John,
<R92> The following items are the only permitted materials for use on the MINIBOTS:
M. limit switches,
N. no more than two common household light switches,

The Q&A answered that only the Tetrix Rocker Power switch could also be used as it is a Tetrix part.

I am not aware that any other parts were approved as electrical and would expect that the Q&A would agree. In the case of the minibot, electrical using the list above, is the simplest problem to overcome. As always, the Q&A is the only definitive answer.

[boomergeek]

Originally Posted by Mike Betts

By their nature, limit switches are usually momentary devices. A better choice would be a light switch...

JMHO,

Mike

After messing with heavy light switches, Team 241 decided on limit switches.

Creating a simple high friction hinge over the top of a KOP 3-way limit switch is a lightweight and effective way to short the motors when you reach the top- the friction in the hinge keeps the limit switch from turning back on.
A high friction hinge can be as simple as a small piece of angled aluminum with a machine screw that is double nutted to adjust compression/friction)
The KOP limit switch is very easy to mount to a vertical member of your minibot. Adding a travel stop on the hinge to protect the switch is also advisable.

If you have a super fast minibot, the hinge allows longer contact with the tower plate while in excess of 4N.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Originally Posted by jvriezen

This might deserve clarification from GDC Q&A, but I don't see anywhere that its been said that you have to purchase a switch from the source that markets it as a limit switch.

From the Q&A for team 599 answered on January 24.

4) A limit switch is anything marketed as a "limit switch".

Ike, in all of the literature that I have checked this year for these types of switches (manufacturer sheets mostly) either the product family or the switch type has a listed use as "limit switch". Some of the pushbutton switches which I think you are referring to I have found are listed as limit switches by their manufacturer.

As to light switches, the wallbox was included in the original definition, changed later by the GDC in a team update. While certain regions allow some switches to be marketed as light switches, you may not find these in your area due to local electrical codes. If you can find a manufacturer's cut sheet for this product that lists it as intended for lighting control, print it out and bring it with you. The GDC has been firm that a switch that is not listed as a lighting control cannot be used even if the switch is used for lighting by other manufacturers in products they manufacture. (i.e. appliances, under counter lights, table lamps.)