Question electromagnet

AlejandroCeb · February 24, 2023, 4:07pm

I have a question, in the competition, can electromagnets be used?

JR0405 · February 24, 2023, 4:13pm

Short answer: yes*
Long answer: See Q&A Q119:

Can an electromagnet, like the ones on a security door, be used to restrain movement on a robot as long as it is only causing an attraction force to a steel plate? I don’t think it will be considered an actuator under R501 if it doesn’t induce movement. Would this be legal as a custom circuit if it does not produce voltages over 24V (per R614) and does not exceed part cost limits?

Answer

We cannot rule absolutely on hypothetical ROBOT designs, and the final decision as to legality of a particular ROBOT lies with the Lead ROBOT Inspector (LRI) at each event. Please note that an electromagnet that causes readily discernible motion when energized or de-energized is considered an actuator and therefore needs to meet the requirements of R501. An electromagnet that does not cause readily discernible motion is not an actuator and therefore does not need to meet the requirements of R501. Such a device is considered a CUSTOM CIRCUIT, and must follow all the rules required of that classification.