Pool safety and logistics
What a school needs to know before the Pool goes up: where it can go, who sets it up, how to keep students, batteries and electronics safe around water, and how to look after the Pool between sessions.
Choosing a spot
Section titled “Choosing a spot”- The Pool is 3 m × 2 m and 500 mm deep.
- When full, the pool holds 3000L of water. Ensure the set up area has a load rating >5.0 kN/m2.
- We recommend at least 1 m of free space around the pool perimeter.
- A school hall or a ground-floor court works well. The Pool needs no fixed plumbing; filling and draining are up to each school to arrange.
Setting up and packing away
Section titled “Setting up and packing away”- Recommended: 4 people, with two 17 mm (or adjustable) spanners.
- The Pool is assembled in about an hour. Filling takes about 2 hours with a garden hose.
- The drain valve takes a 2-inch hose.
- Step-by-step instructions: Pool assembly.
- Ensure the pool is fully drained and cleaned before storage. Do not store the pool tarp while wet.
Water and electronics
Section titled “Water and electronics”- The Robot Brain is sealed. Student code runs on the laptop, not on the Robot.
- Before putting any robot in the pool, ensure that the Robot Brain has all 4 thumbscrews securely tightened, and ensure that the brain faceplate is aligned. Watch Faceplate Alignment.
- Dry the robot off thoroughly, for example with a towel, before opening the Robot Brain.
- Keep chargers and extension leads at least 1 m outside the pool edge.
Batteries
Section titled “Batteries”- The MARLIN Battery (2S 3000 mAh LiPo) takes about 2 hours to charge.
- Always charge batteries with a person present to supervise, and place the charger and battery on a non-flammable surface.
- Do not leave batteries charging unattended or overnight.
- If you notice swelling or damage on a battery pack, discard the pack in your closest e-waste bin.
Supervision
Section titled “Supervision”- We recommend that students are not left unsupervised with the Pool.
- Do not enter the pool when it is filled.
- Retrieve robots from the pool edge; do not reach in further than you can safely stand.
Pool care
Section titled “Pool care”- We recommend keeping your pool chlorine levels between 1 and 5 ppm.
- Change the water at least once per term (10 weeks), or if the water shows signs of discolouration or fouling.
- Wipe the pool inner surface down thoroughly after draining.
- Always cover the pool fully if storing with water.
Questions about your space? Email cs@polymate.tech.