R611 *The ROBOT frame is not a wire. All wiring and electrical devices shall be electrically isolated from the ROBOT frame. The ROBOT frame must not be used to carry electrical current. Electrically grounding the control system electronics to the frame of the ROBOT is only permitted such that all of the following conditions are met:
A. straps/cables used must be from the following approved parts:
Table 12‑6: Legal ROBOT Grounding Straps
|
Grounding Strap |
Part Number |
|
AndyMark Resistive Grounding Strap |
am-4648a |
|
REV Resistive Grounding Strap |
REV-31-1269 |
|
Swyft Grounding Cable |
SR-Ground-01 |
B. the strap/cable must directly connect to a fully COTS COMPONENT with an XT30 connector, and also must connect directly to the frame of the ROBOT (via the resistive terminal), and
C. no ROBOT COMPONENTS or MECHANISMS are designed to electrically ground the ROBOT frame to the FIELD.
Compliance with this rule can be checked by unplugging the battery from the ROBOT main power switch assembly and observing a >120Ω resistance between the (+ / red) input terminal of the ROBOT main power switch assembly in the ON position or the (- / black) input terminal of the ROBOT main power switch assembly and any electrically connected point on the ROBOT. Most aluminum has a clear anodizing layer or oxidation layer on it that acts as an insulator. In order to make a good electrical connection with the grounding strap to the frame, it may be necessary to scratch/file/remove the anodize/oxidation layer from the area of contact with the metal first.
Note that some cameras, decorative lights, and sensors (some encoders, some IR sensors, etc.) have grounded enclosures or are manufactured with conductive plastics. These devices must be electrically isolated from the ROBOT frame to ensure compliance with this rule.
Examples of devices with COTS XT30 connectors include but are not limited to the REV Control Hub (REV-31-1595), a COTS XT30 power distribution block (such as a REV-31-1293), or a COTS Anderson Powerpole to XT30 Adapter (such as REV-31-1385). For additional details on installation of the grounding strap, please see the ROBOT Wiring Guide.