R53 Electric Solenoid Actuators

[2010FRC1261]

Please edit this post/question as appropiate.

There are been two post concerning the use of electromagnetic clutches that are referred to the definition or the rule R53.

http://forums.usfirst.org/newthread....wthread&f=1416
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Are we allowed to use 12 Volt or pneumatic clutches on the robot?
There is no rule specifically prohibiting the use of clutch mechanisms on the ROBOT. However, these devices may not be used if they contain electric motors and/or servos different from, or in addition to, those in the KOP, solenoid actuators (per Rule <R53>) or pneumatic actuators (such devices are not explicitly permitted by Rule <R72>, and therefore violate Rule <R71>).

and

Can the GDC please provide a definition of an electric solenoid actuators. This is the industry standard definition that we have foundL

http://www.tpub.com/content/doe/h101...1013v2_166.htm

We will not provide a specific definition. The commonly-accepted standard definition is sufficient.

Teams are looking for direction not confusion. The definition of an 'electric solenoid actuator', not being defined, leaves for interpretation. The last thing we need is during event inspection an issue between team interpretation and inspector interpretation.

There are some who think that an electricmagnet that attracts to a rotating plate with thousandths of an inch movement is just that. If this device is overloaded, slippage ocurs. There are some who think a solenoid consists of an electromagnet, an air core, and iron 'slug' that moves and causes a secondary action. Overload of this device causes the slug/ping to break.

Please, just eliminate interpretation and state whether electromagnetic clutches are a violation of this rule or NOT.

Fred Smith, 1261

[GDC]

There is no attempt to generate confusion. We believe that the answer previously provided is clear and complete. To whit: there is no rule specifically prohibiting the use of clutch mechanisms on the ROBOT. However, these devices may not be used if they contain electric motors and/or servos different from, or in addition to, those in the KOP, solenoid actuators (per Rule <R53>) or pneumatic actuators (such devices are not explicitly permitted by Rule <R72>, and therefore violate Rule <R71>).