Competition One: In the Nick of Time

 

Q1: In this competition, a device with four points of contact needs to be created. What is the basis for the final score determination?

A1: In this competition, the device with four points of contact will be judged based on the initial contact point's foremost edge. If the contact surface of the entry has a curved shape, as illustrated below, the judging criterion for the contact surface will be a straight line. Teams should carefully consider their design, adhering to the referee's decision.

Q2: Can the device move by rolling?

A2: The rules of this competition specify that each point of contact must not be wheel-shaped. Therefore, the device must move by sliding, and rolling is not allowed. If rolling occurs, it will be considered as having a wheel-shaped point of contact, violating the production rules, and the entry will be disqualified from the competition.

 

Q3: What is the preparatory state of the entry?

A3: The preparatory state of the entry should be as shown in the diagram below, with the weight suspended in the air without touching the table edge. The competition will start after the weight comes to a complete stop.

Q4: Will a soft mat be placed on the ground?

A4: To prevent excessive damage to the participant's device upon landing on the ground, organizers may place a soft mat at the table edge. The contact surface of the soft mat will be considered as the ground. When the participant's competition device is placed at the table edge, the weight should not touch the soft mat when naturally hanging down (including the cotton thread used to secure the weight).

 

Q5: What is the connection form of the rubber wheels at the weight end?

A5: All blocks used on the weight are only allowed for connection purposes. It is recommended to use the following three types of parts for connection: cotton thread, axles, and peg to assist in bundling. Any form of excessive assembly that affects the weight at the weight end is prohibited. Violators may be requested by the referee to make corrections within the remaining 30 seconds. Failure to make corrections will result in disqualification of the competition device, and it will not be allowed to participate.

 

Competition Two: Bomb Disposal Vehicle

 

Q1: In this competition, a four-wheeled vehicle needs to be created. Should the four wheels be able to rotate before departure

A1: In this competition, a four-wheeled vehicle needs to be created, and all four wheels must be able to rotate freely before departure. The referee will request teams to gently push their devices on the table before the race to confirm if all four wheels can rotate and if they all touch the ground. If adjustments are made after this assessment, preventing free rotation or simultaneous contact with the ground, the referee may request the team to reoperate for accurate judgment.

 

Q2: Can you provide specifications for the four-wheeled vehicle?

A2: The competition requires the creation of a four-wheeled vehicle. The left diagram below does not comply with the specifications (having six wheels), while the right diagram below complies with the specifications (with two gears as wheels at the rear, making it a four-wheeled vehicle).