Mentors Workshop Pneumatic Sub-System Mark McLeod Team 358 Festo/Hauppauge H.S. F For I Inspiration and R Recognition of S Science and T Technology
Objectives FIRST Rules & Restrictions Official Suppliers & Other Sources “Circuit” diagram Sample Layout Basics/Components Design Notes Potential Problems Keeping Students Busy Typical Schedule
FIRST Rules & Restrictions Pneumatics restricted in quantity and type Only provided type of compressor, storage tanks Official suppliers – Bimba, Parker Hannifan, Festo, Clippard Free items order sheet in FIRST Pneumatics Manual Compressor on-board or off-board 125psi max storage / 60psi working (must have 2 gauges). Can have a second lower stage. Unmodified – “out of the shipping box” Vacuum devices not considered pneumatics Subject to Inspectors ruling
Official Suppliers Official Suppliers Parker Hannifan
Sample Pneumatics Diagram
Sample Layout
Basic Components Compressor Solenoid valves Actuators Gauges Pressure & transducer sensors Regulators Storage tanks Flow control Brass & quick connect fittings & tubing
Design Notes Actuators are lighter than motors w/ lbs of force Don’t overheat or stall Linear or rotary Can be damaged if struck Consider compressor weight Consider mechanical stops Flow control to slow/reduce actuator reaction Force is adjustable by bore of cylinder and flow control Single solenoid (retracts upon loss of power) Double solenoid (maintains position on loss of power)
Potential Problems Air leaks Broken pressure sensor Compressor hooked up backwards Values connected incorrectly Exposed tubing vulnerable to snagging Too much force can damage manipulators
Keeping Students Busy Prototype testbeds Design pneumatic manipulators
Typical Pneumatics Schedule September thru December Develop basic skills January thru March Six week build period Robot design – space for electronics and wire runs Actuator requirements Designing and testing solutions Resolve physical layout Integrating solutions with electrical/control system/mechanical Regional event Inspection
Workshop Materials Compressor Tubing Miscellaneous connectors- brass and plastic Solenoids – double & single Clippard tank w/pressure gauge or sensor attached Selection of actuators Adjustable flow value