Using the CTE Signal Tower – VEX Library

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The Signal Tower in the VEX CTE Kit is designed to reflect real-world applications of signal towers within the context of industrial automation. This articles outlines how to connect and use the Signal Tower with the 6-Axis Arm.

Introduction to the Signal Tower

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The Signal Tower contains many different colored lights. You can code the Signal Tower to change colors depending upon the actions of the 6-Axis Arm.

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When a project begins, the Signal Tower glows green. The Signal Tower also automatically glows green when the Move to Safe Position is pressed within the Teach Pendant.

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When pressed, the Controlled Stop button on the Signal Tower triggers a stop of the 6-Axis Arm, and the Signal Tower blinks red. The Signal Tower also blinks red automatically when you use the Set arm to Control Stopped block in VEXcode.

Connecting the Signal Tower

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Ensure the Signal Tower is connected properly to the 6-Axis Arm. The Smart Cable connects the base of the Signal Tower to the Base of the 6-Axis Arm.

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Ensure the other cables of the 6-Axis Arm are connected properly. Follow the steps here to set up the 6-Axis Arm.

Using the Signal Tower

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You can code the Signal Tower's behaviors within VEXcode EXP. The blocks used to control the Signal Tower are located within the Looks section of the Toolbox.

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The Set signal tower block enables you to change the parameters of the Signal Tower.

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Change the color of the Signal Tower by selecting the color dropdown menu on the Set signal tower block.

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Change the lighting of the Signal Tower to solid or blinking using the last dropdown menu on the Set Signal Tower block.