what is allowed as an Estop.

Question

I have a question about Estops and what is allowed, we were advised to use the estops like the image below.

However I am not keen on using it due to its huge size compared to the sima so I am using a design I have made with a self latching button and a 3d printed top part in red as seen below.

The button is a self latching and it is connected to the batteries (Lifepo4 ) to the esp chip and the motor drivers. so once pressed the whole system is shut down and there is no power given to the system. 

Is this allowed or do we stick to the normal estops ? 

thank you 

Answer 1

Hello,

I think we just answer to you by email. The forum seems to be having problems uploading images, but we received them by email.

Regarding your question about the emergency stop button: your proposed solution is perfectly acceptable, even if it is not a standard commercial Estop, provided that it meets the following criteria:

- it is placed on a high point of the robot and remains easily accessible to be pushed (for instance by a fist),
- it is clearly red,
- the size seem to be quite good (min 20mm)
- it is unambiguous that it is an emergency stop button.

From your description and pictures (received by email), your design seems to comply with these requirements.

Concerning your second point: yes, it is absolutely fine, and even recommended, that pressing the Estop completely cuts power to the robot.

Best regards,