Pneumatics
The pneumatics subteam is responsible for many of the moving parts on the robot, ranging from the scoring mechanisms to gear shifters on the chassis.
In simplest terms, pneumatics is air pressure. We control it in its path from the air compressor, all the way to the pistons. In between, we place regulators and release valves to control the amount of air pressure and to provide a safe and easy way to release the air from our set-ups. The air is stored in pneumatic tanks and all of the tubing in between is cut to size to ensure that the air flows to its proper destinations. To ensure that the pneumatics components of the robot are in competition form, we check all of our connections for leaks.
Tips for Rookies: Be careful that each task is done correctly. If brass fittings are not taped the correct way, or tubing is cut crookedly, or a connection is not tightened enough, the air will leak and the mechanisms will fail. It is simpler to ensure that a connection is up to standard the first time, rather than to spend the extra time fixing the leak. Hastily put together systems will not work as well as carefully assembled ones. A good trick is to visualize the flow of the air through the compressor to its final destinations. That will help to illustrate any flaws in the pneumatics setups so that quick corrections can be made.
Leader: Ryan
