Pneumatics

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FIRST Lego League also has a page about Pneumatics.

Pneumatics is a system in which pressurized gases (air in the case of FIRST), are used to move actuators such as cylinders or rotary actuators.

1 Components
2 Advantages
3 Disadvantages
4 External Resources

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Components

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Advantages

Force and speed are both infinitely adjustable later without any part changes (via regulator and flow valve adjustments)
Natural linear motion, making interfacing with structure simple (no rotational motion conversion required)
Very high direct forces possible (up to 188 lbs) without any mechanical reduction (higher forces possible with external mechanical advantage)
New action/release possible after end of round
Continued force possible after end of round
Stallable forever without draining battery, action continues whenever resistance ends
Servo positioning control possible (with feedback sensor and proper valving)
Plug-in tubing makes routing, changes, and providing small amounts of work in odd places simple
Very useful for: device deployment/actuation, doors, gates, releases, parking lockup, alternate drive/wheel swapping, vacuum generation, and gearbox switching

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Disadvantages

Large initial weight cost
- Compressor
- Storage tank(s)
Routing hoses can be difficult
Total power/energy output is less than that achievable with motors
Frequent use will drop air pressure faster than the compressor can raise it, resulting in a severe performance drop.

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External Resources

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