Team-79 Antistatic solution

[FRC79]

We are using a simple solution to the charge buildup. It consists of a simple beaded chain. We suggest using this one found at ace hardware;

CHAIN BEADED 12" BRASS
SKU: 34733
77012 WESTINGHOUSE
$1.15
<http://www.acehardwareoutlet.com/(woa5vp55zc00kr55ubpfumrx)/SearchResults.aspx?SimpleSearchValue=chain+beaded>

Teams should tie this to a bare-metal location on the robot. Allow about 2 inches of chain to drag on the floor.
As electrostatic charges are accumulated during motion, they are simultaneously drained from the robot. Thus, dangerous levels never occur.

The rule that allows the chain is R05

"<R05> Exterior or exposed surfaces on the ROBOT shall not present undue hazards to the team members, event staff or GAME PIECES.
"

We are not affecting traction as required by R06

"<R06> ROBOTs must use ROVER WHEELS (as supplied in the 2009 Kit Of Parts and/or their equivalent as provided by the supplying vendor) to provide traction between the ROBOT and the ARENA....
No other forms of traction devices (wheels, tracks, legs, or other devices intended to provide traction) are permitted.
"

The chain is a mechanical device fastened to the robot frame and does not violate R41

"<R41> All wiring and electrical devices, including all control system components, shall be electrically isolated from the ROBOT frame. The ROBOT frame must not be used to carry electrical current.
"

By adding a brass chain to the robot frame we have eliminated the buildup of electrical charges. This is a safe and legal method for protecting humans from electrical shock. It also protects the electrical components on the robot.

I gladly offer my advice to the committee working this problem. Please contact me. I have more than 30 years of electrical design experience in shielding and grounding.

jerry waechter
jerome_waechter@hotmail.com
727-239-1861 (cell)
727-785-9137 (home)

[GDC]

There are no rules that prohibit this.

We are aware of the issues regarding static discharge effects on the Drivers Station, and the associated impacts on the play of the game. We understand the natural desire to attempt to implement a quick solution. However, we must ask for your patience as we work through this problem. It is not yet clear that the source cause of the ESD issues has been accurately identified or understood. Until we fully understand the actual source of the problem, we want to avoid throwing "solutions" at the problem that may not help (or even make the situation worse). Please be assured that we have the system developers fully involved in investigating and diagnosing the problem, and they are working as rapidly as possible to get an effective solution identified and implemented. Once that is done we will disseminate information regarding the solution (and make any modifications to the rules to permit implementation of the solution, if they are required).