Build Your Own Combat Robot

Safety in the Use of Shop Tools
Chapter 2: Getting Started 37
There are many power tools available to the robot experimenter. One of the first
items you should purchase outside of handheld tools is a bench drill press. In itself,
this is not a dangerous tool, but it can still cause injuries. The belts and pulleys at
the top, if left exposed, can cause injuries to the hands. The drill chuck generally
runs at a low enough speed when drilling to not cause flying bits of metal, but the
use of other metal-cutting tools can cause metal to fly everywhere. Again: use
safety glasses. Tighten the bit or tool securely and then remove the chuck key. Feed
the tool or bit into metal slowly, using a lubricant, and using a lower speed for
larger drill bits. Be sure to have the work piece securely clamped to the drill press
table to prevent it from rotating.
Many of the same safety tips apply to all power tools when working with metal.
Be careful of the placement of your hand when using your other hand to hold a
workpiece. Bench grinders, metal and wood band saws, routers, and saws all require
you use common sense when operating. Most hand-power tools have an internal
blower to cool the motor, and this wind can sometimes blow chips and dust into
your eyes. Always have a complete first aid kit on hand and know how to use it.
The larger shop tools such as metal lathes, milling machines, and the various
types of welders all require special knowledge that cannot be obtained from any
“manual,” and it is recommended that you obtain special instruction in their use.
Community colleges usually have shop courses, and even a local machinist can
give you help in this area.
Safety with Your Robot
Safety is also critical when dealing with your bot. This should come as no surprise,
because often these machines are 350 lb. warriors designed to obliterate other machines
their own size. You can just imagine what a bot like this can do to the tender
skin of a human being. Be extremely careful when you power up your machine for
testing. Always remember Murphy’s Law: “If something can go wrong, it will.”
Always assume that any part of your bot will fly off at any time, and plan accordingly.
Never, ever operate a combat robot in the presence of children. Even a seemingly
benign machine such as a wedge can go out of control and quickly smash into
someone, breaking legs or doing even worse damage.
No amount of body armor and safety glasses can protect a person from a large
spike that is accidentally thrown from a spinning robot. A pneumatic weapon arm
can accidentally deploy upward and sever a person’s head. Sharpened weapon
edges can still cut you severely, even when you’re not in the middle of operating
your machine. A 1,500-psi gas line can break away and whip about like a mad cobra.
The use of a full-face mask is recommended when dealing with high-pressure
pneumatic systems.