Power Pong
User Manual
Page 29
5.3
Throwing Wheel Maintenance
The Alpha robot throwing wheels are very durable and typically last for 500-1000 hours. During
normal use these wheels will wear. As the wheels wear, the space between the 3 wheels
increases, preventing the wheels from properly gripping the ball as it is thrown. An indication
that the throwing wheel clearance has increased is when the robot throws balls inconsistently,
particularly when throwing at high speed. Use the following procedures to first check the
clearance, and then, if necessary, adjust wheel clearance.
W
hen the wheels have worn to the point where they can’t be adjusted properly any longer, the
wheels must be replaced. All three wheels must be replaced at the same time. Note that the
procedure is slightly different for the lower wheel compared to the upper wheels. Perform the
procedures as follows.
5.3.1
Checking Throwing Wheel Clearance
1. Using a Power Pong supplied table tennis ball, insert into the space between the 3 wheels
(Photo 5-6) and move it in and out. The ball should move in and out of this area with slight
contact of the 3 throwing wheels. If there is NO contact with the wheels and/or the ball
simply falls into the throwing tube, wheel clearance adjustment is required.
8
Note:
New robots will have a tight fit. No adjustment is required in that case.
5.3.2
Adjusting Throwing Wheel Clearance
Perform the following procedure for wheel adjustment.
1. Use the supplied 4 mm hex wrench, slightly loosen the adjustment screw for each of the 3
motors so that the motors can be moved by hand, but not loose enough so they move
without your assistance. See Photos 5-7 through 5-9.
Photo 5-6
