Division C Events

Questions must be directed toward the rules. We cannot pre-judge your device by answering questions on whether it complies.

Earth/Space Science

Astronomy

(section: 2 / line: 1)

01/16/2012 - 16:31 Does a tablet computer qualify as a laptop computer?
Yes, a tablet computer fulfills the same functions as a laptop computer. The only constraint is that like the laptop computer, the tablet must have the ability to turn its internet connection (Wi-Fi, 3G, or other) off for the competition.

(section: 2 / line: 1-2)

03/16/2012 - 10:48 The rules specify that competitors are allowed to bring laptop computers, is it acceptable for a Regional competition to overrule this and prohibit laptops?
No, there is no reason to override this and teams preparing to use a laptop as one or both of their resources will be hampered greatly in competition.

(section: 3 / paragraph: c / line: 2-3)

12/05/2011 - 13:15 In the rules, section #3 letter c. the rules say "and/or answer questions relating to the three content areas outlined above for the following Objects". What are the "three content areas" that this references?
This is referring to the possible information given about each object, found after the boldface "The Competition", and then sections A and B of the rules following.

Dynamic Planet - Div C
Rocks and Minerals - Div C

(section: 2 / line: 1)

11/20/2011 - 22:09 Is a mini, hand held magnification devise acceptable as a magnifying glass?
A pocket sized magnifier of any type will be acceptable at the event.

(section: 2 / line: 3)

11/03/2011 - 14:34 What types of books are encompassed by the phrase "field guide"? In other words, must a book have the words "field guide" printed on the cover in order to be permissible for the event?
A published or commercially published field guide is any printed resource that is published and used for identifying natural objects, flora, or fauna.

(section: 3 / paragraph: e / line: 1)

04/02/2012 - 21:15 While looking through the list, Anthracite Coal is listed as a sedimentary rock. However, it is actually a low-grade metamorphic rock. Will this fact be used in competition and/or will it compromise the list?
According to the National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, a recommended resource listed in the SO rules manual, Anthracite Coal is a sedimentary rock. The National Tournament will follow this listing.

Remote Sensing

Inquiry/Nature

Experimental Design - Div C
Fermi Questions
Technical Problem Solving
Write It Do It - Div C

Life/Personal/Social Science

Anatomy and Physiology
Disease Detectives - Div C
Forestry - Div C

(section: 1 / line: 1)

01/05/2012 - 12:29 It says "This event will test...North American trees that are on the Official National Tree List". The Ohio tree list has 19 species that aren't on the National Tree List. Is this allowed (bearing in mind the event description)? If it is, can stud...
Yes, state and regional even supervisors can make their own list of trees for their competitions as long as the listed is provided to all teams in a timely manner. The local or state list of trees can be substituted for the National Tree List and brought by the students if this is the list being used for the competition.

(section: 2 / line: 3)

11/03/2011 - 14:34 What types of books are encompassed by the phrase "field guide"? In other words, must a book have the words "field guide" printed on the cover in order to be permissible for the event?
A published or commercially published field guide is any printed resource that is published and used for identifying natural objects, flora, or fauna.

(section: 2 / line: 5)

10/31/2011 - 12:53 Is it acceptable to print the tree list single-sided and write notes on the reverse side of each sheet?
No, This would be a violation of the Spirit of the Rules of the competition. If the tree list is printed on a single side of paper, only the front of the paper may contain notes.
11/03/2011 - 14:51 Does "teams may ... write on any of these" include digital modifications to the tree list?
No you are not allowed to make digital modifications to the tree list but you are allowed to write on the tree list.

(section: 3 / paragraph: c / line: unsure)

11/22/2011 - 19:48 Will tree identification be made using twigs, cones, seeds, flowers, bark, or other parts of the tree?
No, tree identification will be based only upon live or preserved leaf specimens but may be accompanied by other parts of the tree. Twigs, cones, seeds, flowers, bark, fruit, or other parts of the tree may be used without leaf specimens for other types of questions, but will not be used for tree identification without the presence of a live or preserved leaf specimen.

(section: 3 / paragraph: e / sub-paragraph: / line: 5)

01/01/2012 - 22:19 There is a problem with one of the species names on the official tree list. For the Chinkapin Oak, the name on the official list is Quercus muhlenbergii. However every source I can find including the Audubon guides has the name as Quercus muehlenb...
Quercus Muehlenbergii is the correct spelling for Chinkapin Oak. This correction has been made to the Official Tree List posted on the National Website. Please be sure you are using this corrected version of the tree list.

Microbe Mission - Div C
Water Quality - Div C

(section: 3 / paragraph: c / line: 4)

04/09/2012 - 14:19 Are participants allowed to use more than one salinometer/hydrometer to test salinity of the water sample?
NO- one device allowed per team.
04/20/2012 - 12:35 The clarifications state "There is no restriction on the salinometer type as long as it is built by the team." Does this mean items like multimeters, which obviously aren't made by the team, cannot be used at all?
A purchased multimeter cannot be your entire device, it may be incorporated into the homemade device.
05/08/2012 - 12:55 What is the volume of saltwater test solution that will be provided to each participant team?
You should expect between 400 and 600 mls of saltwater.
05/08/2012 - 13:12 Are participants allowed to bring their own container in which to place the test solution, as part of their salinometer device?
Yes, teams may bring their own containers in which to place the test solution.

(section: 3 / paragraph: c / sub-paragraph: 1 / line: 4-6)

11/03/2011 - 14:46 How accurate does the salinometer/hydrometer need to be for the test?
No resolution is stated. This will be determined by the Event Supervisor.

Physical Science/Chemistry

Chemistry

Chemistry Lab
Forensics
Protein Modeling

(section: 1 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

04/13/2012 - 07:52 Are students allowed to use both sides of the 5x3 notecard for explaining the creative additions?
Yes. Both sides of the note card can be used for explanation. The text must be legible for the event supervisor.

(section: 2 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

04/09/2012 - 14:05 Are students allowed to use the hyperlinks that are located on the JMOL reference sheet during the on site build/ test?
No. The students are not allowed an active website. They work off a CD or off a program on the computer. There should be no active links in the test environment.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

12/05/2011 - 13:49 The Jmol visualization has residues 207-225 as being part of an alpha helix, but the PDB sequence has residues 207-221 and 223-226 as part of an alpha helix. Which resource should the pre-build secondary structure be based off of?
Use what Jmol designates as the helix. The physical (3D) models that the event supervisors will be using to aid in the scoring will be based on the Jmol designation of the length of the helices.

(section: 3 / paragraph: b / line: 4)

04/13/2012 - 07:55 The line describes how students must create functionally relevant features. Is there a maximum number of features that can be shown at the national competition?
No, there is no specified number, but only 4 will be scored.

(section: e / paragraph: a / line: 2)

03/01/2012 - 16:40 The 285 side chain says it is Alanine. However, it is according to the 1i3o pdb file found on the Protein data bank, it is mismatched to Cysteine in UniProtKB. It is key to the structure if the 385 side chain is Cysteine and not Alanine. Which do ...
The PDB file 1i3o has a mutation at Cys285 in which Alanine was used instead. The cysteine is indeed important to the function and this should be used in the model. The sequence information tells you that Cys should be in that position. The mutation was done to keep the enzyme in a particular conformation for the crystallization process. This information can be found in the primary citation associated with the PDB file.

Physics

Optics - Div C

(section: 2 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

02/21/2012 - 15:01 Can the premade template remain in the box during the laser shoot?
Yes
04/02/2012 - 13:55 2a. "Competitors may bring any measuring tool, premade templates, ..." - rules do not state that templates should be 3-hole punched and secured in a 3-ring binder. Please confirm!!!
Templates do not need to be placed in the binder.

(section: 2 / paragraph: a / sub-paragraph: 1 / line: 1)

02/23/2012 - 11:40 May students bring in a blank template (clean sheet of paper), put a hole in the template (for the barrier), place the template in the box then draw on their template within the 4 minutes?
Yes, students may modify their templates and/or measuring tools in any way during their allowed 4 minutes.

(section: 3 / paragraph: d / sub-paragraph: xii / line: 1)

02/21/2012 - 16:19 The rules state that "A barrier is placed somewhere along the line between emitting tip of the laser and the Target Point". Does this mean that the barrier can be placed very close tho the laser or to the Target Point?
The barrier (barriers for Div. C) will be placed in the same position for all teams. The chosen position for the barrier will be at the Event Supervisors discretion.
02/21/2012 - 16:46 My partner and I use a grid template for the laser shoot. In competition, are we allowed to lift up a barrier to place the grid?
No, teams may not move the barriers. They may place the templates around the barriers or on top of the barriers. Teams may cut their templates to fit during their 4 minute set up time.
04/02/2012 - 14:03 Is the line along which the barrier must be placed necessarily the marked midline or a line between the laser tip and the target point.
It is the line between the laser tip and the target point.

(section: 3 / paragraph: d / sub-paragraph: xv / line: 1)

02/23/2012 - 11:25 May mirrors be placed on top of premade template(s) on/in the LSS and remain in that configuration while the event supervisor turns on the laser and measures the accuracy or would leaving the premade template(s) in place be modifying the LSS?
Yes, mirrors may be placed and left on top of or under the premade template(s)during set up and testing. Putting templates on/in the LSS is not considered modifying it.
02/28/2012 - 12:00 Are we allowed to use tape to make sure the templates don't move?
Yes, you may use tape to secure the templates.

(section: 4 / paragraph: b / sub-paragraph: iv / line: 2)

02/23/2012 - 11:48 If the laser is split into 2 distinct beams by a mirror, which beam is used to determine accuracy? Or is the average of the beams taken since the rules say "the horizontal distance to the center of where the laser strikes the wall?"
The stronger beam will be used for measurement purposes.

Sounds of Music

(section: 1 / line: 1)

11/14/2011 - 16:03 What is meant by two different instruments, of any type?
The word “different” refers to the instruments not being alike. The wording “of any type” means the type of either instrument doesn’t matter. Examples of what is not allowed: two flutes, two guitars, two trombones, etc. Examples of what is allowed: a flute and a piccolo, a trumpet and a tuba, a flute and a trombone, a guitar and a ukelele, an xylophone and a drum, etc. While these examples are technically different instruments, they are of similar variety, and students would lose points for "variety". Refer to the scoring rubric when choosing instruments.

(section: 3 / paragraph: b / line: 1)

03/05/2012 - 09:15 How specific is "parts of such instruments," for example could I use fretwire for an instrument or would I have to create my own?
Parts is all inclusive. Rule 3.b. line 3 only permits strings. Fretwire is not a type of string therefore, commercial fretwire is not allowed.
03/05/2012 - 09:16 Does the object being used to play the instrument (ie. a guitar pick, a violin bow, xylophone mallets, etc.) need to be constructed as well?
Yes, all parts of an instrument (other than strings) must be constructed by students.

(section: 3 / paragraph: b / line: 2)

03/05/2012 - 09:21 Are student-made, home-made, reeds allowed?
Yes, as long as they are not made from reed material that is commercially sold for use with a musical instrument. If you make a reed out of something other than reed cane, then that would be allowed.

(section: 3 / paragraph: d / line: 1)

04/02/2012 - 19:59 At Nationals, if I have 2 rows of xylophone on wheels, can the two rows be wheeled in separately then put one in front of the other for playing? In the configuration where one is in front of the other, it will not fit through the door.
Yes, you have 5 minutes to set up.

(section: 4 / paragraph: b / sub-paragraph: ii / line: 1)

03/05/2012 - 09:09 Will an instrument be penalized for playing above and/or below the allowable scoring range?h
In order to get full points in rule 5.i.iii, all music must be played in the allowable range.

(section: 4 / paragraph: c / sub-paragraph: i / line: 1)

03/05/2012 - 09:27 Can we only write music (for the song of our choosing) in the allowable ranges? In the subparagraph about the required song, it says it must be in the 'musical ranges specified', but doesn't say that in the subparagraph (ii) about the other piece.
In order to get full points in rule 5.i.iii, the chosen duet must be played in the allowable range.

Thermodynamics

(section: 2 / paragraph: a / line: 1-4)

02/21/2012 - 15:35 Would it be permitted to bring a thermometer as a part/supply? The thermometer would only be used to take the temperature of the internal beaker when it is first entered in the device in order to make a more accurate prediction.
Yes, as long as their own thermometer or probe is at room temperature, this is legal.

(section: 2 / paragraph: a / line: 2)

04/20/2012 - 13:11 Are students permitted to bring a thermometer to take the temperature of the internal beaker when it is first entered in the device in order to make a more accurate prediction.
Yes, as long as their own thermometer or probe is at room temperature, this is legal. The thermometer/probe may only be used to get an initial starting temperature once the beaker is placed into the device, and must then be removed from the device during the remainder of the testing period. Note that only the temperatures measured with the event supervisor provided thermometers / probes will be utilized for scoring purposes.

(section: 2 / paragraph: c / line: 1)

02/20/2012 - 20:59 Are students only allowed to take 4 plots into competition with them and use only these 4 for the estimation value at the end of the cooling time?
No, students can bring as many plots at they want in their binders. They can only submit 4 to the judges for scoring purposes.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

11/20/2011 - 21:09 What is meant by organic granular material?
Organic material is matter that has come from a once-living organism, is capable of decay or the product of decay, or is composed of organic compound. Granular material is a conglomeration of discrete solid, macroscopic particles characterized by a loss of energy whenever the particles interact (the most common example would be friction when grains collide). Thus, organic granular material could be described as a collection of pieces of organic material. Some examples of organic granular materials are rice, coffee, corn flakes, sugar, nuts, popcorn, coal, pieces of cork, leaves, etc.
11/20/2011 - 21:30 Would clay, sand, and/or dirt (such as top soil, potting mix) be considered an organic granular material?
Some dirt can be considered organic however do not assume all dirt is organic. Some dirt and soils contain inorganic materials and would not be allowed. Clay and sand are conglomerations of organic and inorganic materials therefore are not allowed due to their inorganic components.
11/20/2011 - 21:38 Is cork acceptable as "wood"?
Cork is not wood but it is organic and must be granular if used. Please see the posted FAQ for organic granular material.
02/08/2012 - 11:07 What constitutes a natural fiber?
Natural fibers come from plant or animal sources. In their raw form they are typically continuous filaments or discrete elongated pieces. They can be processed into items such as threads, ropes, matted sheets or fabrics. Any of these forms are allowable as long as they are made up of 100% natural fibers. Examples include, but are not limited to cotton balls, wool blankets, and silk fabric.
02/21/2012 - 12:57 Are chipboard, particle board, hardboard, plywood, or engineered woods acceptable as wood?
Yes
02/27/2012 - 15:48 Are we allowed to paint our device black or some other dark color to contribute to the termodynamic properties of the device?
No
02/27/2012 - 15:57 For the paper that can be used in the thermodynamics construction, can it be news paper than has colored inks on it or must it only be standard printer paper?
Yes, it can have printing on it.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 1-2)

04/20/2012 - 12:31 Would wax paper count as an acceptable form of paper?
Yes

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 3)

02/08/2012 - 11:09 With regards to fastening materials, please provide examples of when they are or are not “contributing to the insulating properties of the device”?
Allowable examples of fastening materials usage include, but are not limited to: Using a single strip of tape or glue along an entire edge to hold 2 sides of the device together (it doesn’t need to be just ‘tacked’ together at a few spots). Spreading a thin layer of adhesive on the entire surface of a piece of aluminum foil to secure it to a piece of wood (e.g. like you would with wallpaper). NOT allowable example uses include, but are not limited to: Using multiple layers of tape on an edge to seal it. Wrapping the entire device in tape to hold it together. Filling a large cavity with glue to ‘hold together’ an inside and outside wall.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a-b / line: 1)

02/08/2012 - 11:23 Are packing peanuts made from corn starch allowed to be used as insulation?
Packing peanuts made from corn starch are a type foam which is prohibited from use in the device per rule 3.b.

(section: 3 / paragraph: d / line: 2)

02/21/2012 - 14:54 Does the hole above the beaker have to be a consistent 1.5 cm in diameter or can it narrow as it approaches the beaker? May the opening be covered?
The entire opening from top of the device to the water surface must be at least 1.5 cm in diameter and remain completely open during the competition.

(section: 4 / paragraph: a / sub-paragraph: iv / line: 2)

04/20/2012 - 10:59 Can the external beaker be placed on an open surface (e.g. plate) with ice on the open surface?
Everyone will be placing their exterior/control beaker on a similar surface. Teams are not allowed to use anything different under/around their beaker. Any manipulation of the external control beaker to change the temperature would be a violation of the spirit of the rule.

(section: 4 / paragraph: a / sub-paragraph: iv. / line: 1)

10/28/2011 - 14:25 Does the event supervisor or the student pour the water into the beakers?
That is up to the individual event supervisor, although the recommendation is that the event supervisor transfers the water. The student(s) load the beaker into their device.

(section: 5 / paragraph: a / sub-paragraph: v / line: 1)

02/17/2012 - 12:47 When it says "1 point for each data plot on a graph or graphs turned in (up to 4 total)" does the "up to 4 total" refer to the points, meaning up to 4 points, or does it refer to the graphs or plots.
Rule 2.c. clearly states you may turn in up to 4 plots. Rule 5.c.v. awards 1 point per plot for a maximum of 4 points possible.

Technology

Helicopters

(section: 3 / paragraph: 1 / line: 2)

03/27/2012 - 07:34 Does the flat disk on top of the rotor need to be loose, or can I glue it?
The flat disk may be glued.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

04/26/2012 - 10:21 Are teams allowed to tether their helicopters?
No, teams may not tether their helicopters.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 2)

10/28/2011 - 08:47 What is the required orientation of the flat balsa wood disc?
The disc is to be parallel to the rotation of the rotors.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 2,3,4)

02/23/2012 - 12:01 May a short spike be placed on top of the flat balsa wood disc to hold the disc away from the ceiling?
No. The balsa wood disc must be the upper most part of the helicopter that would touch a flat ceiling. The disc can be atop a short spike, but the spike cannot be above the disc.

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / sub-paragraph: NA / line: last)

02/06/2012 - 20:41 Please clarify if time stops when balsa disc dislodges (separates) from the helicopter or when the disc touches the floor (assuming it reaches the floor before the helicopter) per 4.j
Timing will stop when the disc is dislodged from the helicopter per rule 3.a. The reference to rule 4.j. falls under the last line "or the judges otherwise determine the flight to be over" which would be when the disc dislodges from the helicopter, not when the disc or any other part of the helicopter touches the floor.

(section: 4 / paragraph: a / line: 3)

04/19/2012 - 12:57 Based on the photos of the Venue from the Sci. O national site, it looks like there will be a net over the flying area. Will that be removed for competition to minimize obstruction?
We will work with the tournament organizers and local building staff to minimize obstructions as much as possible, but cannot make any promises on specifics. Any obstructions that cannot be removed will remain the same for all competitors.

(section: 4 / paragraph: c / line: 2)

10/28/2011 - 08:55 If two (or more) motors are used, may each one be a parameter for the flight log?
Yes

(section: 5 / line: c)

05/01/2012 - 15:35 To receive the Chinook bonus, do both rotors have to be contributing lift the entire flight?
Not necessarily, one motor could run out of turns before the other while still being a rotor and contributing to the overall flight. Dummy rotors that only momentarily contribute lift to attempt the bonus will not be counted, this determination will be left up to the event supervisor on competition day.

(section: 5 / paragraph: c / line: 1)

10/28/2011 - 08:57 Must the axes of two rotors be essentially parallel to qualify as "Chinook style?" That is, may the axes be orthogonal as in most helicopters?
The axes do not necessarily have to be parallel, but all rotors must be contributing lift to the helicopter (see 3.d, definition of rotors). A horizontal tail rotor (used for yaw control on full-scale helicopters) will not count for the bonus, as it does not provide lift for the helicopter.
10/28/2011 - 08:59 Does "axes of rotation separated by at least the radius of the rotors" mean the sum of the two radii or only the radius of the largest rotor?
It means the radius of the largest rotor.
11/14/2011 - 15:41 If the axes of rotation are not parallel in a Chinook-style helicopter, what point on the axes will be chosen to determine this distance between them?
They will be measured from the minimum separation of the axes of rotation. Thus, if the rotors are tilted away from each other, the measurement will be made from the bottom of the rotation axes.
05/01/2012 - 15:36 Do the rotors have to be roughly equal sizes to qualify for the chinook bonus, or can one be substantially smaller than the other?
In order to count as a rotor, it must contribute a non insignificant amount of lift to the flight. This determination will be left up to the event supervisor on competition day, do not attempt to take advantage of the bonus.

Gravity Vehicle

(section: 3 / paragraph: b / line: 2)

12/02/2011 - 13:21 Does the phrase "competitor provided ramp" mean that each team will not be competing with the ramp they built?
No, "competitor provided ramp" means that each team must bring their own ramp and compete with their own ramp.

(section: 3 / paragraph: f / line: 1)

04/26/2012 - 11:35 May the paper clip be moved between the first and second runs, as long as it complies with the rules, that is, Measurement Point still within 1 cm of track, still behind the front axle, still within rectangular box, easily accessible?
Yes, this will count as part of the 10 minute event time and the event supervisor may re-check the paper clip to ensure that it fits within the stated parameters.

(section: 3 / paragraph: g / line: 1)

04/20/2012 - 12:42 The rules state the vehicle and ramp together, in the ready to start position, must fit within a rectangular box . Does the release mechanism also have to fit in the rectangular box, or may it extend outside the box?
Rule 3.b. explicitly states the ramp includes the release mechanism, thus is must be within the dimensions too.

(section: 3 / paragraph: h / line: 1)

02/17/2012 - 12:31 In the construction parameters for gravity vehicle it calls for an unsharpened #2 pencil with an unused eraser, is the eraser to be used to release the vehicle?
Teams may use either end of the provided pencil to actuate their vehicle.

(section: 3 / paragraph: k / sub-paragraph: iv. / line: 1)

02/06/2012 - 20:26 Are students allowed to use electrical components (i.e. wire) if there is no electricity used in the device?
Yes, many materials could be considered an "electrical" component if included in an electronic device (e.g, rubber used on wheels could also be used to insulate wires), so it is impossible to differentiate between various materials that way. As long as the vehicle uses no electricity, then the materials are legal.

(section: 4 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

04/06/2012 - 11:38 Can the track be cleaned prior to the start of a run? In my opinion, the track would now be different for teams running before who did not clean the track and those teams running after a cleaning. Would this be fair to all teams?
Yes, teams may clean the track using their own equipment. This will count as part of their setup time. As long as every team as the same opportunity to clean the track (regardless of whether they take advantage of that opportunity or not,) then the competition is still fair.

(section: 4 / paragraph: b / sub-paragraph: i / line: 2)

02/09/2012 - 16:48 Students must place one edge of their ramp parallel to the Start Line. The Start Line is defined as "the inside edge of the tape." Is this referring to the edge closest to the center of the Launch Area or the edge closest to the Target Point?
The inside edge of the tape of The Start Line refers to the edge closer to the Target Point.

(section: 5 / paragraph: e / line: 2)

04/02/2012 - 13:53 If a piece falls off a car during ONE run, does this cause BOTH runs to be scored with a construction violation?
No. It is a construction penalty in that a piece fell off and that run should be Tier 3. If however, the vehicle problem can be corrected, the other run would not be Tier 3 based on the piece having fallen off.

(section: 5 / paragraph: h / line: 1)

02/06/2012 - 20:28 Are the competitors allowed to hold the ramp when they launch the vehicle?
Yes

(section: 6 / paragraph: f / sub-paragraph: iii / line: 3)

02/17/2012 - 12:38 If a vehicle has a construction violation on only one run, will it be placed in Tier 3 for that run only or for both runs?
Yes, if a vehicle has a construction violation for one run, that run would be scored in Tier 3. If the other run is not in violation of the rules it is scored in Tier 1.

Robot Arm

(section: 3 / line: 1)

11/03/2011 - 15:14 Can a personal computer (laptop) be used without penalty as part of the controls and inputs of the arm if its battery does not exceed the maximum voltage?
Yes, you can use a laptop for the control system, however you must still submit a technical drawing of the control system, the voltage and frequency must be verifiable and satisfy the rules. Use of the laptop for outside communication while competing would be a violation of General Rule #4.

(section: 3 / line: No #)

02/29/2012 - 12:42 Can the device be programmed, such that it requires no input from the competitor once the run has begun?
Yes

(section: 3 / paragraph: c / line: 1)

12/05/2011 - 13:54 This rule states that "the device may use modified kit parts." Does this imply that each and every part must be modified, or simply that the robot as a whole must have at least one modification from the condition that would result from following t...
The spirit of the problem is for students to design and build a device. This does not necessarily mean each component must be modified by the students, but a token modification of a single component from an entire kit would not be within the spirit of the problem either.
03/01/2012 - 15:38 Statement says"Competitors may not impart energy directly into the arm(s). Does this allow for students to open a valve to release the pressure within a tube that has been vacuum pumped down to release the material at the end?
Yes, as long as the valve is on the control box.

(section: 3 / paragraph: d / line: 2)

04/19/2012 - 12:54 If a team uses a computer as a controller, does the computer's battery get included in the total voltage?
Yes

(section: 3 / paragraph: f / line: 1)

03/01/2012 - 13:53 Because Bluetooth devices only operate in the 2.4GHz band, do they have to have their frequency marked on them?
Devices with Bluetooth icons or indicators meet rule 3.f.line 2 as marked with the correct frequency of 2.4 GHz.

(section: 4 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

03/01/2012 - 15:34 May the engineering drawings incorporate drawings of individual elements (such as the controller) which were produced by the component manufacturer or another third party?
Yes, but the student is still responsible for understanding these parts used in the device and may be asked to explain parts of the technical documentation.

(section: 4 / paragraph: b / line: 1)

12/02/2011 - 14:25 This rule exempts fasteners from reporting requirements, but does not define fasteners. Would this exemption extend to spacers, washers, axle collars, bushings, bearings, brackets, belts, zip ties, gussets, standoffs or couplers?
A fastener is intended to hold two or more things together. Its going to take a little judgement on the part of the event supervisor, but the following things are fasteners when used as such: screws, bolts, rivets, washers, straps, nuts, pins, c-clips, e-clips, twist ties, zip ties, straps, rubber bands, belts used as a strap. Rubber bands used to store energy, or a belt used to transfer energy is NOT a fastener. Axle collars if used to retain the axle are a fastener. Bushings and bearings are not fasteners, they don't hold things together, they reduce friction. Gussets are more structural pieces than fasteners. Same is true for standoffs or couplers. In the same vein as event supervisors are expected to use judgements, so should competitors. If you aren't sure, listing it won't hurt anything, for example, it may not be required to list a screw but it won't be penalized.

(section: 6 / line: 1)

03/01/2012 - 15:36 If the appropriate technical documentation is missing, is the event supervisor obligated to ask the competitor to point out items on the device?
No, but the competitors lose the 4 points for identification by default.

(section: 6 / paragraph: a / line: 1)

03/09/2012 - 09:12 During the 5 minute prep time at Nationals, while testing the device, can the device touch the scorable items and/or the goal boxes?
Yes, but the event supervisor will reset the playing field before competition starts and students may not be touching their devices at that time.

(section: 6 / paragraph: c / line: 1)

03/02/2012 - 18:38 If time is stopped because of one of the reasons under 6.c. occurs, will the team be ranked in Tier 3.
Teams will not be ranked in Tier 3 if the time is stopped because of one of the reasons listed in rule 6.c.

(section: 6 / paragraph: c / line: vii)

03/02/2012 - 15:36 Are there any penalties if any part of your device falls off into the competition area or becomes detached from the device during competition.
There are no penalties but timing stops when any part of the arm falls off or becomes detached from the arm.

(section: 6 / paragraph: c / sub-paragraph: vii / line: 1)

03/14/2012 - 07:51 If a device drops a "tool" into the field that, although it's dropped in the field, remains permanently tethered to the base, and the tool is used to pick up game pieces, will the time be stopped?
NO. The relevant rule 6.c.vii states the time stops when the arm becomes detached from the base. The tool which was part of the arm is still attached to the base, so time continues.

(section: 7 / paragraph: a / line: 3)

04/03/2012 - 07:22 Assuming the Goal Box is moved out of the competition area, do the contents/ supported items still earn full points (though they are technically out of the competition area)?
The goal boxes do not need to be in the competition area for objects fully supported by them to be scored, assuming all other rules are met (ex. item did not at any time touch the surface outside the playing area, etc).

(section: 7 / paragraph: b / line: 1)

03/01/2012 - 15:43 Please clarify "supported by". Does that mean in or can it be resting on two lips of the goal box?
Items resting on two lips of the goal box are counted as "supported by" as long as they are FULLY supported, they can't touch the ground OUTSIDE the goal box.
03/02/2012 - 18:27 If items are placed in the goal box by use of a tool,such as a magnet,and that tool is left in the goal box, can you still receive full points for those items?
If the magnet is detached from the arm before the scoreable item is in the goal box, the item will not receive points because time is stopped when the magnet is detached from the arm.

(section: 7 / paragraph: b / line: 2)

03/01/2012 - 15:46 Can a nail, pencil, or PVC tube earn 10 points if it is placed in the Bonus Jug while the jug was on its side.
Yes, if items are placed in the Bonus Jug while the Bonus Jug is on its side, it will still count. Note that this is different from the rule for the Goal Boxes.
03/01/2012 - 15:56 If an item is dropped into a goal box, lands inside, however the landing causes the goal box to tip over, but the item stays inside the tipped goal box without touching the playing surface, does it count as having gone in when the box was upright?
Yes. The rules only state placed in the Goal Box while upright. The placing of the item does not depend on when the item stops moving. There is no problem of the Goal Box going sideways later as long as the item is completely supported by the Goal Box. Teams will lose the 7.f bonus points which state sideways at ANY time.

(section: 7 / paragraph: c / line: 1)

03/27/2012 - 08:45 What defines "within the North Zone"? My robot arm is holding onto a pencil and it's entire pencil is within the boundary of the North Zone but not touching the playing field. Do I get 1 point?
The North Zone would be considered three dimensional. If an object is completely within this three dimensional area, it will receive 1 point if it is not scored otherwise.

(section: 7 / paragraph: d / line: 1-2)

03/16/2012 - 10:50 Would a battery that is placed within one of the goal boxes be considered in the North Zone if there is already a battery in each goal box, or would would this battery be considered "completely supported by one of the Goal Boxes," and thus unscore...
As long as the extra battery is fully in the north zone as otherwise required for that rule, yes, it earns the 1 point.

(section: 7 / paragraph: j / sub-paragraph: i / line: 1)

10/28/2011 - 09:28 What is the official definition of a motor? Is an electromagnet a motor?
A motor is a machine that converts energy into mechanical motion. An electromagnet isn't a motor since it only creates a magnetic field.
03/09/2012 - 09:17 What are the parameters (size, location max pressure etc.) concerning a pressure reservoir used to power pneumatic motors.
A pressure vessel may be part of the control box, just as a battery may. It may not be something separate off by itself. The safety of a pressure vessel will be up to the local supervisor to determine as we cannot prejudge a safety decision without physically seeing the device. If there is any question, err on the side of caution.

(section: 7 / paragraph: k / sub-paragraph: iii / line: 1)

03/27/2012 - 08:49 What actions will lead to a team being placed in Tier 3? The principal guidelines in the "Competition" (sec. 6) of the rules pertain to actions that will cause time to stop, but no additional penalty (per FAQ of 3/2/2012). What else is there?
This is meant for competition violations above and beyond the specific consequences spelled out in section 6. Events that stop the clock as spelled out in para 6.c are NOT competition violations. Some examples of competition violations that would result in tiering: - A team uses more than 5 minutes to set up their device. - A team receives outside help during the competition period. - Starting to compete without notifying the Supervisor. Blatant unsportsmanlike conduct could result in a DQ.

Towers - Div C

(section: 3 / paragraph: a / line: 1-2)

02/21/2012 - 15:22 Please clarify whether the tower's base may go across the 20 cm x 20 cm opening (triangle base, 20cm diameter circular base, or square base with 20cm diagonals) or whether the base must be totally cleared (tower base minimum square 20x20cm).
Rule 3.a. allows Towers to be placed on the Test Base surface in any configuration as long as the loading chain is suspended within 2.5 cm of the center of the opening in the Test Base. Towers do not have to touch the top surface of the Test Base all four sides of the 20.0cm x 20.0cm.

(section: 3 / paragraph: f / sub-paragraph: i / line: 1)

04/09/2012 - 14:10 Is it permissible for the chain to contact any portion of the tower below the loading block as may happen when the tower is being loaded, or does contact signify the tower's inability to carry additional load, and therefore, failure (5j)?
Yes, it is permissible for the chain to make contact with the Tower during loading if the chain and/or Tower shifts while adding the sand; contact is not a failure mode. However, if the Tower were constructed in a manner which allows some or all of the load to be supported in any manner (vertically or laterally) by the Tower at any point below the loading block, before or during loading; then the Tower must be placed in Tier 2 with a construction violation. The Event Supervisor must decide whether the load or chain has gained any useful support from the Tower by this contact.

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