F.A.Q
Note - All Questions will be listed in reverse Chronological order to enseure that the latest topic may be reviewed. In other words, latest questions are on the top.

	General Question will be posted here. All other FAQ's are down below.
10/13	These are a few alternative energy sources that our team has discussed using. Liquid Nitrogen: This is one idea of an energy source which we have. We believe that we could create a system that would use the expansion properties of liquid nitrogen to move part of our transportation system. Liquid Nitrogen will not be allowed as an alternative energy source becauseof potential damage to the gym floor. Mats are not being used this year and spilling liquid nitrogen on the floor with the subsequent rapid cooling could damange the finish. If it were to be allowed, it would have a very expensive price since liquid nitrogen is relatively expensive. Compressed CO2: This could also be used the same way as liquid nitrogen, using the expansion of the gas to either transport, sort, or load/unload the batteries. The judges will consider this as a source. Please provide the details of what you intend no later than the morning of Wed 10/15. Requests were supposed to be in by 10/1, this is an extension. If the information needed is not provided by 10/15, the request for the additional energy source will be considered to be withdrawn. We need to know how you will use it (safety issue), how much you will use, and how you propose measuring the usage. The usage needs to be determined so that we can appropriately charge for the use of the energy. Again, compressed CO2 is relatively expensive compared to other types of energy sources. Dry Ice/ CO2 as a solid: This could be used to create a track for the transportation system that would decrease the friction between the track and the vehicle, decreasing overall energy usage. Dry Ice will not be allowed as a track material because of potential damage to the gym floor. Mats are not being used this year and dry ice contact with the floor resulting in subsequent rapid cooling could damange the finish. This does not pass the "safety requirement" either. I suspect that few schools would allow a track with dry ice to operate in the cafeteria while it was crowded with a lunch crowd of students. Water: It would be used within a contained system which would use the potential energy of the water to be converted into energy which could turn gears and pulleys. The judges will consider this as a source. Please provide the details of what you intend no later than the morning of Wed 10/15. If the information needed is not provided by 10/15, the request for the additional energy source will be considered to be withdrawn. We need to know how you will use it (safety issue), how much you will use, and how you propose measuring the usage. The usage needs to be determined so that we can appropriately charge for the use of the energy. Rubber bands: These could be used for their potential energy, to bewound up and then release there energy for specific processes. You are proposing a storage medium, not an energy source. If you use one of the allowed sources of energy to wind the rubber bands (and the bands start unwound..i.e. no potential energy) this is allowed under the current rules. If you are proposing another source of energy to wind the bands, you need to have the details including what it is, how you intend to use it, how much you will use, and how you propose measuring how much you use to us no later than the morning of 10/15 so that the use can be assessed and a price set for the energy source. The judges will not approve use of human labor to wind the bands.

	If I change the height of my system during the competition how is the rise requirement measured and how will you tell if I am have added unapproved Potential Energy into my system?
	When you load your system you are at a given elevation. That elevation can be anywhere you choose in envelop of height allowed by the right of way. You may add energy to your system to manage the required rise and any other rises you choose to add. If you go below the elevation where you loaded your transportation system, you have added energy to the system and are in violation of the "added unapproved energy" rule. Example: If you load your system at 5" above the base of the landscape, you must from that point move it to 9" above the landscape to meet the 4" rise requirement. You must at no time go below the 5" elevation or you have added unapproved energy to your system. You may choose to add additional elevation as long as you do not violate the height requirement since any elevation you use will come from energy you put into the system. You may drop the batteries into a mechanism to sort them and this will not be counted as added energy. The height at the point that the battery starts moving in the transportation system defines the height that you cannot go below during the competition.

12/2	Will we be allowed to cover the holes in the sides of the bucket?
	The holes in the bucket have been covered with duct tape.

12/2	How old or beaten up are the batteries that are given to us at the competition? Can we dump the batteries out of the buckets slowly, as long as we are not sorting them that way? Do we have to take as much of the five minutes as possible? Are we penalized for taking less time?
	The batteries are recently used recycled AA, AAA, & C different varieties. They will be provided to you in UVM recycle containers mixed 40 of each (120 total). You may dump them slowly or fast, there is no penality for taking more or less time (within the designated performance time). As you indicated in your question, you are not allowed to use the dump as a sort. The convience subsidy audit will check the number of batteries delivered to a particular station over a designated amount of time. If your delivery is irregular, you might not qualify for the subsidy.

11/19	Are you aware the fan is somewhat lower than the layout? The bottom of the fan is only 34 1/2" off the floor.
	You are correct the bottom edge of the fan will be below the edge of the riser and a small part of the fan will be blocked. The riser information has been in the rules since Sept. The note that was sent out last week was intended to highlight that the length for the riser is 8'. The dimensions were located in the document twice and one of the 2 entries indicated an incorrect length (6'). The height of the riser was not changed.

11/19	Can you give me a couple of examples of the worst possible scenarios that would still receive the "pass the audit" bonus?
	Delivery will depend on the number delivered during the interval compared to the number delivered to that station. It would be possible to have only one delivery during the interval and get the bonus, but if you have consistant delivery, you will be more likely to get the bonus.

11/19	Is the "pass the audit bonus" based on regularity or frequency? That is, do you get points if some batteries are delivered every time interval, or do you only get points if you deliver an exact amount of batteries during every time interval?
	At the competition, the timekeeper will announce a particular time interval and unload station for the audit. You and the performance judges will be asked to provide a count of the passengers delivered to a particular station for a particular time interval. The number of passengers delivered during that interval will be recorded on the run sheet and the total number of passengers delivered will be recorded. The comparison of the number delivered during the audited interval to the total delivered will provide a consistancy measurement. Percentages for the time interval will be loaded into the scoring formula and teams will be awarded the bonus if they delivery meets consistancy of delivery. The consistancy measurements will have a band of acceptable percentages delivered in that time. I can't give you the percentages or the specific time interval since that would defeat the purpose of the audit.

11/19	Does it matter on which side of the track the unload station are?
	The load and unload stations may be on either side of the right of way or over the right of way.

11/19	We are assumming that the "stalk" of the fan will be quite close - a couple of inches perhaps - to the corner of the landscape. If this is not the case we would appreciate knowing how far away it will be. The fan is our primary (and maybe our ONLY) source of energy, so we certainly would like to find out its location prior to the competition.
	The fan will be tapped to the floor as close to the edge of the platform as we can get it. We will not see the actual installation of the riser until late in the afternoon of 12/5 so we cannot give you an exact location. Wedo not know the distance, but will place it as close as we can.

11/19	Please clarify the size and position of the risers that our landscape will be placed on. Under Section 4 - Demonstration Landscape it says 3' x 6' 16" off the floor, but under Section 6 - Competition Day it says that the platforms are 3' x 8' x 3'.
	The platform risers will be 3' x 8' x 3.

11/14	We here at Enosburg would like a few things cleared up. First of all, what is the difference between "exit bins" and "disembarkation stations," or is there a difference? The rules state that all stations (loading and disembarkation) must be 12"x12"x24", and that the entire landscape is 8'x3'. The FAQ states that the exit bins must be located outside the track area (the 6" wide ellipse). If "exit bins" are synonymous "disembarkation stations", then it is physically impossible for them to fit within the demonstration landscape without being within the ellipse. If "disembarkation stations" are not synonymous with "exit bins", can these stations, as well as the loading station, be, at least in part, within the 6" elliptical track?
	UVM Recycle bins (see photo) will be used for Exit Bins, Hospital Bin and for the initial BIN for the 120 mixed batteries (AA, AAA & C) students will use in the competition. Each bin is square 10" wide x 10" deep and 13" tall. A picture of these bins is on the tasc web site. The exit bins are places to put the batteries after they are delivered to the disembarkation (or unload) stations, they should not be a part of your landscape. They are intended to be on the floor as "holding areas" for counting purposes so that the batteries do not roll around on the floor andbecome lost or create a safety problem. We chose the large bins so that the competitors and judges could see the single layer of batteries and easily count the number in the 3 unload (disembark) bins and the hospital bin for purposes of scoring. Batteries are considered to be delivered after they exit the transportation system at the unload station. After they are delivered (exit the transportation system) you may pick them up and put them in the exit bin (for counting) or you may leave them in your unload station until the end of the competition performance run and then transfer them to the bin for counting. There is no labor charge for touching delivered passengers. If you remove the batteries from the transportation system by hand, you will be charged a labor charge. If you have questions on whether you might incur a labor charge, send the details and we will respond with no web posting.

11/14	Hi, we were wondering if we are allowed to take the sorted batteries out of their respective containers once the train has dropped them off, or do they have to stay in the containers until the performance run is over?
	The battery is considered to be "delivered" after it exits your transportation system. You may pick it up (no charge) from the station or your container any time after it is delivered.

11/14	Are there any restrictions on where we can place our loading and unloading stations? Can we, or instance, place our loading station partially in the middle of the oval (that is, not just in the 6" right of way, but inside the middle of the oval)?
	Your load/unload station must comply to the size requirement designated (see Appendix A). It can be inside the right of way, outside of the right of way, or over the right of way. You cannot use the entire designated space and then all connectors to your station (i.e. we would could the connecting part as part of you station). If you used a than allowed smaller area and had a connection, this would be allowed. The load/unload stations cannot be touching. The rules in Appendix A will be used to determine compliance to the rules.They are frozen. You should read the rules carefully.

11/14	We are planning to use a sorting mechanism to sort the batteries before they are transported. Does our sorter have to comply with the specified dimensions of the loading station?
	Yes, the the sorting mechanism must be contained within the dimensions specified for the load station. (See Appendix A of the rules).

11/10	The light source provided does in no way shape or form provide an even similar amout of energy to a systems solars. If the use of solar energy is to even be considered a more powerful light source must be provided. The power currently provided via. the TASC light source can hardly power a single 6v. electric motor.
	The light source provided does in no way shape or form provide an even similar amout of energy to a systems solars. If the use of solar energy is to even be considered a more powerful light source must be provided. The power currently provided via. the TASC light source can hardly power a single 6v. electric motor.

11/10	I was wondering if you can tell us our running time? We have a member that is doing a music audition in Rutland on the same day and we were wondering if she could make it so she can help us run our machine. She has made a arrangements so she can be the first to audition but she still needs to drive up to UVM!
	Team members are encouraged to arrive for the opening remarks at 8 a.m. to the tennis court area of the Patrick Gym for reviewing for compliance to rules judging. If your team gets there at normal check in, it will likely be possible to get them into one of the later groups, we can't promise a time but we will attempt to put your team in one of the later performance groups.

11/5	Is there any restriction to the angle of the tunnel? Or in other words, can our tunnel be slanted upward at something like a 30' angle?
	The interior of the tunnel must meet the size requirement in Appendix A. You can make it smaller an have an angle in it as long as you do not exceed the designate width and height requirement. If you landscape is at an angle at that point (30 degrees for example), we will measure the tunnel from the height of the right of way at that point so if your landscape is at 30 degrees we will measure the height and width from the 30 degree rise in your landscape. Please note the requirements in Appendix A regarding placement of the tunnel.

11/5	We recently purchased an Energizer Hard Case lantern for powering our solar panels. However, the lantern does not supply enough power to the panels to make them function properly so that they can power a small dc motor to drive our vehicle. Before we purchased the lantern the panels functioned properly using sunlight outside and the light from an overhead projector.
	You might want to combining the DC from the solar cell with DC from the power supply.

11/5	Can the structures inside the oval used to gather energy be larger then the 12X12 size requirement? I know it can not be higher then 24 inches. Could we say make a 13X20 inch structure inside the oval?
	You may use the entire interior of the oval to gather or to transform energy. You may also use the footprint defined by the load and unload stations. The load/unload stations have max size requirements. The only requirement in the oval is the max 24" high and the envelop defined by the edges of the oval, you could have a structure up to the max size or multiple structures contained in that footprint.

11/5	Can all 5 members of our team control different functions of our system, or is only 1 member allowed to interact with the controls?
	All 5 students can partcipate in running the device on Saturday, Dec. 6. Teachers and advisors are NOT allowed in the performance area.

10/31	Would the removing of batteries from their specified stations to the exit bins by hand be considered a labor charge?
	After the batteries are delivered to the unload station you may pick them up and move them to the bin (for counting purposes) and this will not be considered a labor charge. If your system drops them or pushes them off the right of way they are considered "delivered" and no labor will be charged. If you pick them up from the system before they are delivered > it would be a labor charge.

10/31	Can the batteries have some forward velocity as they drop/fall into the bins?
	It is expected that there will be some minimal forward velocity as they fall and you are not required to stop that motion before the battery engages your transportation system. It is not expected that the person dumping the batteries will attempt to introduce forward motion through means such as trying to throw the batteries out of the bucket. Dump means "to let fall in mass". Throw means "to propel especially with forward motion". You are allowed to dump, but not to throw.

10/31	If we dumped the bucket provided into a holding slide to help separate the batteries that then slide the batteries down to fall on our track, is this legal?
	As long as you dump the bucket, this is legal and you will not be charged for manual labor. A dump means that you are shaking them out in one place and not moving the bucket to sort them as they fall. Shaking batteries out of the bucket one at a time and letting them fall in different parts of the slide would NOT be legal.

10/31	Is it legal to have a funnel which is not attached to the sorting mechanism, but instead held by a member of our team while we pour the batteries through? Would this have to count toward the 12 x 12 x 24 size limit for the departure station?
	Having a team member hold a funnel not attached to the sorting mechanism is considered "not dumping" and would count as a manual interaction with each battery touched. As long as you dump the bucket with no manual interference, you will not be charged for manual labor. A dump means that you are shaking them out in one place and not moving the bucket to sort them as they fall and not using a hand held mechanism to sort them or straighten their path.

10/29	Is it legal to have the tunnel after the last station, in a position which no passengers pass through?
	No it is not legal to have the tunnel after the last unload station. Please review rules for tunnel placement.

10/29	When the batteries are moving around the right-of-way to the exit bins, can the batteries drop/fall into the exit bins, as long as no other rules are violated? Basically, does letting the batteries drop/fall into an exit bin violate "passenger safety"?
	Batteries can fall into bins. This does not violate any rules.

10/22	Could you give us price for the use of gas for miniature internal combustion engines?
	No additional requests for use of additional energy sources will be considered. A note was sent to all team with the final list of approved energy sources about 2 weeks ago. Ethyl Alcohol is an approved source that you might want to consider using.

10/22	Is it legal to use a variable resistor to control the speed of (or even stop) the system during opearation? And if so will it cost us the $9 labor charge?
	You may use the variable resistor to control your system and since this is a control mechanism, you will not be charged labor to operate it. Since this is a control mechanism, you can locate it outside of your system if you choose. It would also be acceptable if you have a team member operate it attached to your system.

10/17	Can the tunnel be longer than 12 inches?
	It can be longer than 12 ". It must be at least 12 inches.

10/17	Can we have a direct track to each station or do we have to go all the way around the track?
	You must use the 6" right of way in the shape of an oval. You may use separate tracks within the 6" right of way that do not go all the way around the oval. You have the right to the 6" right of way all around the oval. You do not need to use all of the right of way (the full 6 inches or the full allowed distance.... i.e. you do not need to have track run from the last unload station to the load station. The system must look like an oval (it may have a piece missing if you elect to not use all of the oval).

10/17	Where are the exit bins located? Inside or outside? Over or under the track?
	They will be outside the track area. They are for you to use to put the batteries in as delivered. You are not expected to use them in your design. They are provided as "holding bins" for the judges to count.

10/17	How large are the exit bins at the stations where the batteries are dropped?
	You will be provided a bucket to put the batteries in. Your system may use any type "bin" to collect the batteries or your system may drop them off one at a time. After the battery is outside the your transportation system, you can leave it in the bin in your system or you may pick it up. To get the convience subsidy, you will need to give counts delievered to a designated station to the performance judge so you need to be able to dump into the bucket or count in place.

10/17	Does our wind collecting turbin have to inside the track, or can we have it outside the track (maintaining the 8' * 3' alloted space)? If our system goes faster than the 5 min. time, can we collect the delivered batteries and redump them?
	All energy collection and storage must be inside the oval (or in the right of way or load/unload stations). If cannot be outside the oval (The only things outside the oval are the attachments to the bike pump, the attachment to the power supply, and wires or other means of controlling your system). I will add a comment in appendix A to make sure that all teams clearly understand that placement is confined to the interior of the oval. You have a total of 120 passengers. You may not redeliver the passengers. The problem is smooth delivery of the available passengers at the lowest cost, not the max number passengers delivered.

10/17	How many straight sections do we need to be considered an oval looking shape. Can it be 2 sections making a rectangle with two triangle ends, 45, 45, 90. Could it be three strips making up the turn? If the fan isoutside of the demonstration landscape, can we have a turbin collector next to it or does that have to be on the track? Where can we put a mechanism to turn our track if it can't be next to the track in the inside oval space? Can we use a steam engine that runs off line voltage? Are there any restrictions if the power source is a sterlind engine?
	An oval has curves..... your landscape should approximate curves in the corners. It should not look like a rectangle, a diamond, or a trapazoid. I cannot answer the question on a number of sections, it depends on your design. I can think of ways that laying out 3 strips at a curve would look like an oval and many where it would not. If you would like to submit a drawing, I would be willing to review it with the response going only to your team. The ruling on oval or not oval based on your drawing will carry to the incoming design compliance check at the competition. Please provide your team name so that we can record what we are approving as a record for competition day. The fan will be located on the floor at the corner noted in figure 1. You may use the interior of the oval for your turbine collector. All parts of devices that collect energy must be inside the oval area (or in the right of way or in the load/unload station space). You may not put anything on the fan (or in the right of way or in the load/unload station space). You may not have any part of your collection device outside of the oval. Any part of the mechanism that moves your device must be located in the right of way or load/unload station space. If you have collected the energy in the middle, you may run wires, or belts or chains to transfer the energy to the system through the middle. Again........ if you are unsure, I would be willing to review your layout and give you an answer that only goes to you (not posted on the web).As long as you use one of the approved power sources and are compliant with the safety regulations there should be no issue with using a steam engine. The Sterling engine must used an approved power source. Power sources are limited to the 4 approved, an approved request to use a second bike pump (2 at one time) and ethyl alcohol (with a price to be posted per ml by the end of this week). An additional requirement for use of ethyl alcohol is that there must be a way that you measure how much you will use (so that they judges can calculate energy) and you must comply with safety requirements. There is one team that requested possible use of alternative energy (all requests were to have been made by 10/1) but has not yet supplied the details needed for the judges to size the possiblity of use. This team has until noon tomorrow to provide the information or the request will not be considered further.

10/17	Would the use of small rodents be permitted to pull the transportation systems?
	Use of small rodents or any other animals will not be approved as an energy source.

10/13	We have encountered a number of issues when reading through the chat session and the most recent rules (as of 2:00pm 10/9/03). In the rules it says, referring to the convenience subsidy,"The team receives $25.00 each time 1 or more passengers is unloaded at the audited station during the audit period." Then during the chat session, when they discuss the subsidy it appears to be one single subsidy, only a one time winning of $25. The exerpt says "the judges will be checking for uniformity of delivery. If the audit determines that you have 'passed the audit' , $25 will be given to your team." Does this mean $25 per uniform delivery, that is to say will we get $25 each time a battery is delivered to the audited station? If not, these rules seem contradictory.
	We apologize for the confusion. Based on questions to the web site, the chat sessions, and a review of the porfolio we have realized how confusing this is in the rules. The rules are being updated to clarify this. Update is now made, see rules for recent updates.

10/10	What brand of batteries will we be given?
	A bucket with 40 each of mixed AA, AAA and C dead batteries of different brands will be provided. The FAQ has a question/answer with the specific brands listed.

10/10	We just sent you a question about whether or not the shape of our track mattered so long as it fit in the oval/ellipse track. You said that it should look roughly oval, but so long as our track fits inside of a 6"oval, does it matter what type of shaped track we put in?
	You have a right of way of an oval/ellispe. This means that you need to demonstrate that you can manage the curves you have in an oval in your transportation system. You may have straight sections (like a race track) but you should have a design that demonstrated the ability to move around curves in the corners.

10/10	We have encountered a number of issues when reading through the chat session and the most recent rules (as of 2:00pm 10/9/03). In the rules it says, referring to the convenience subsidy,"The team receives $25.00 each time 1 or more passengers is unloaded at the audited station during the audit period." Then during the chat session, when they discuss the subsidy it appears to be one single subsidy, only a one time winning of $25. The exerpt says "the judges will be checking for uniformity of delivery. If the audit determines that you have 'passed the audit' , $25 will be given to your team." Does this mean $25 per uniform delivery, that is to say will we get $25 each time a battery is delivered to the audited station? If not, these rules seem contradictory.
	You are right........... I checked the wording is confusing and will be adjusted. What was intended is the one or more passengers" is to imply that if the uniformity of delivery is constant (could be one battery in time 1, one in time 2 etc or could be two batteries in time 1, two in time 2, etc.) you would get the subsidy. Thank your for bringing this to our attention and for explaining where in the rules you saw this. We did the rules as a group and each of us in rereading them has seen what we intended to write and not what was there. I have gone into the rules several times, but I did not read/comprehend it the way it is written.

10/10	What is the minimum radius the curve of the system can have?
	We have not specified a minimum radius. The judges will use a visual observation. If it is a series of straight lines approximating an oval or an ellipse, it is fine. If it is a straight runs with curves, it is fine. If it looks like a diamond, it is not. The intent is for you to demonstrate that your system can handle going around curves (as well as manage a rise and fall in elevation and movement of batteries through a tunnel.

10/6	Can the 4 inch rise and fall occur in the loading station?
	The rise must occur in your transportation system after the batteries are loaded. Your transportation system is defined as the 6 inch right of way. If you loading system is located intersecting the 6 inch right of way, and you have loaded the batteries into the transportation system's 6 " right of way, this would still meet the rules. Lifting the batteries and lowering them within the load station and then entering the batteries into the transportation system right of way is NOT allowed and would be a violation of the rules.

10/6	We also were unable to locate it on the Walmart web site but the this pump is sold in Walmart stores. These pumps were selected due to their low cost. www.pumpbiz.com has other bike pumps that you can consider using.
	We also were unable to locate it on the Walmart web site but the this pump is sold in Walmart stores. These pumps were selected due to their low cost

10/6	I am having trouble finding information on the Bell "The Judge, Steel Barrel" foot pump. I searched for the string in quotes on Wal-Mart's website, but found nothing. I also search for "Bell" and nothing that came back was a pump. Any suggestions?
	The Bell "the Judge" Steel Barrell has the following: Distance from Handle fully up to handle fully down = 14" (Handle fully extended up = 36" Handle fully down = 22") Diameter of pump barrel = 2" PSI Output = 120 psi Any pump that meets this criteria will be considered equivalent. Any pump that does not meet these measurements needs to be qualified by supplying the information above on the pump so that the cost per stroke can be calculated.

10/6	How close can the fan come to our turbine?
	The fan will be taped to the floor at the corner of quadrant 1. Please make sure you are using the most recent version of the rules. It has a diagram that shows the location. You may use the adjustments on the fan to change height, tilt and speed. You may not alter the fan or attach anything to it. Your collection system must be located in the center of the oval.

10/6	How close do we have to come to an oval for our actual track, can it be a rectangle with rounded corners as long as we stay inside the 6 inches (oval/ elipse) track specified; can we have any shape we want to inside of the track?
	It should look roughly oval. I assume from your question on the rectangle with rounded corners you intend to maximize the straight run and use the corner to turn. This is allowed. See Appendix A for what the judges will check.

10/6	Does the loading station have to be in Quadrant 1? If we maintain the required sequence (Loading, Station AAA, Station C, Station AA)can we start the sequence in any quadrant? The rules don't directly state this one way of the other that we could see.
	Yes.......... load must occur in Quadrant 1. Check Appendix A for a full list of what the judges will check for comformance to rules.

10/5	Please clarify where the 4" rise has to occur. The rules say that it can be in the "quadrant you choose" (Page 9) but the FAQ states "there is a requirement that there be a rise of 4" and return from that rise in Quadrant 1" (see 9/24) but in an earlier answer "rise to start after the load station and fall to complete before the first unload station." (no date for this question) PLEASE NOTE: if the load station and the rise have to both be within quadrant 1 and the fan is outside quadrant 1 and the wind harvester must be inside the oval it effectively removes the fan as a practical source of energy; the loading station will block most of the wind flow.
	Please check your copy of the rules, located at http://www.emba.uvm.edu/TASC/2003/rules2003.htm . You should not be using the preliminary rules. The rules state: The entire rise of 4 “ and the return to the level of the landscape base, must be contained in the quadrant following the load station. This means that the rise must begin after the load station and the fall must be complete before your first unload station (i.e. the rise as measured from the base of your Demonstration Landscape and the return to the level of the Demonstration Landscape must be complete before transportation system arrives at the first unload station ). The dimensions for the load station are the max dimensions that you are allowed to use. There is no requirement to have a physical structure. The load station must be in quadrant one. You must meet the space requirements in Appendix A and follow the rules (such as no station touching another), but within those rules you have the capability to choose where you locate the load station to optimizeyour wind collection. The fan will be located at the corner of quadrant 1 shown in the drawing in the rules.

10/2	How close is the light to our system?
	The light is hand held and you can hold it anywhere you wish. If you prop it up, or set it your system (i.e. you do not hold it in a team member's hand) it must fit in the energy storage area in the middle of the oval and conform the the specified size requirements for that area.

10/2	Can we make a reflector to go around your light?
	No you may not modify any of the energy sources provided, but you can have a team member hold the light up against a reflector contained in your system, or you may provide a platform next to your reflector to collect the light. You cannot attach anything to the light casing.

10/2	What are the dimensions of the solar panel?
	Your team needs to pick the solar panel and use in the the size guidelines described in the rules. It must fit within the center of the oval and conform to height requirements.

10/2	If we use both wind and solar energy, will we get a combined bonus of $150?
	Yes if you use both you receieve a subsidy of $150.

10/2	Does the tunnel have to be 12in. long?
	Yes the tunnel must be 12" long. We will clarify this in Appendix A.

10/2	On the Design Preview we have a few questions: What is the difference in your expectations between the two scoring pages? Do we actually have to have test runs of the device done before October 8th or what are your expectations for this section?
	The details of what to include are listed on the web site. Please make sure that you are looking at the updated rules are at: http://www.emba.uvm.edu/TASC/2003/rules2003.htm After you get into the web site, you need to click on the train to bring up the rules. There was an error in the preliminary portfolio document that indicated that you should include test runs. This was an error and was corrected when the rules were loaded the first week in Sept. If you do have test results and wish to include them, you may, but we recognize that most teams will not be that far in their design. The biggest difference in content is that you will likely not have constructed your system by the time of the preliminary portfolio so that the portfolio will not be able to address how your system operates. You also may not have completed your design and may make modifications later. The preliminary portfolio is not formally scored. The intent is to provide you input to use to improve your final portfolio. They indicated that you are allowed a max of six pages for the preliminary portfolio and 7 for the final portfolio. Details on what to include are include. You may put more than one item on a page. You are not required to use all 6 pages for the preliminary portfolio or all 7 pages for the final portfolio.

10/2	There is conflicting information with the number of pages the Design Preview can be. You say there are a max number of 5 pages but then on the next page with what each page should have the total amount is 8 pages. (pages 14 + 15) Is it 5 or 8? or do we put multiple items on 1 page?
	I believe that you are looking at the preliminary rules. We will attempt to get it pulled off the web site so that no one else is confused. The updated rules are at: http://www.emba.uvm.edu/TASC/2003/rules2003.htm After you get into the web site, you need to click on the train to bring up the rules. They indicated that you are allowed a max of six pages for the preliminary portfolio and 7 for the final portfolio. Details on what to include are include. You may put more than one item on a page. You are not required to use all 6 pages for the preliminary portfolio or all 7 pages for the final portfolio.

10/1	There are two somewhat conflicting rules: Found on the FAQ page: "Your transportation system must use only the space of the right of way and the space of the load/unload systems. You are not allowed to use any other part of the landscape." And found in the rules: "You may use ONLY the area in the middle of the 6 inch right of way to house any alternative energy source or any storage device that you are using to contain energy." Where can the wind/solar generators be housed?
	Your transportation system (all parts of the mechanisms that move the batteries) must be located in the 6" right of way and the load/unload station footprint. You may use the center for collecting and storing energy (and in the case of approved added energy sources generating energy)........ but you must have the point that the stored energy connects to your transportation system contained in the envelop of the right of way and load/unload stations.

10/1	Can they be on the machine, can we hook it up to our machine and actually put it on the machine?
	You will be provided a connection to attach to your system. The DC power supply will be located on the floor. The system to measure electricity just arrived from PASCO. The type of connection you need to attach will soon be posted on the web. The team working on the electrical system will specify an inexpensive easy to obtain connector.

10/1	There is conflicting information with the number of pages the Design Preview can be. You say there are a max number of 5 pages but then on the next page with what each page should have the total amount is 8 pages. (pages 14 + 15) Is it 5 or 8? or do we put multiple items on 1 page?
	This question came up in the chat room yesterday. You are correct - there is an error on the web in what is posted and there is a mismatch. A rule update will be made and broadcast to all teams as well as posted on the web. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

9/30	What is the Audited station, we get something like a $25 bonus, but what is that station? Is it the same as our boarding station?
	It will be one of the unload stations. The judges will be told just before the performance runs. It will be changed for different performance runs. The teams competing will not be told prior to the competition. The judge will ask for a count of passengers delivered at a particular station at a particular time interval.

9/30	Does the tunnel have to be 12 inches long?
	Yes the requirement is: · Tunnel internal dimensions not to exceed 12” long x 6“ wide x 8” high

9/30	How many teams will be competing in this?
	There will be 8 teams doing the performance competition at a time. We do not yet know the number. While teams are registered, we don't know who will actually come to the competition.

9/30	Can we have the pump linked directly to our landscape, bypassing the tank? It is a bit unclear in the rules how this will be set up. Clarification will be appreciated.
	Yes you can use the air directly.

9/30	We are also a bit confused about the air power. Do we pump up a 120 PSI air tank with a foot pump? If so, how many pumps will it take to pump up the tank to full pressure? If not, how does it work?
	The air is available for you to use. You can store it and then use it or you can use it directly. How you use it is up to you as long as you do not do anything unsafe or violate the other rules. If you use a storage device, you will be charged for the air you put into the storage system whether you use it or not.

9/30	Can we pour the batteries in the top of our loading station? We would like for the batteries to loose height while in the loading station (for sorting). Is this legal?
	Yes........ dumping the batteries into the top of the loading system is legal. Using the energy of dumping the batteries into the loading station is NOT LEGAL. We will not be picky about small amounts of residual energy left (since it would be too limiting to insist on complete stops) but gross attempts to use the falling batteries to provide forward motion will be considered added energy into the system and thus illegal.

9/30	Tell me if I have anything wrong here. When the batteries enter the transportation system, they don't necessarily have to be at landscape level. They can enter at any height as long as they don't drop below the level at which they entered while in the transportation system. The exit bins can, however, be below the level at which the batteries enter the system.
	Correct the batteries do not need to be at the level of the landscape when they enter. The point the enter must conform to the overall height requirements. Correct the exit bins can be below the level at which the batteries enter (and travel through) the system. The elevation you cannot go below during transportation system movement is defined by the elevation at the point the battery starts moving in the system.

9/30	For the design preview can you have the pages double sided? For example the drawings for the device?
	You may have double sided pages.......... but the requirement is that you have no more than 6 pages with writing on them........ so if you use both sides you are allowed 3 pages total (6 sides of the paper with content).

9/29	Is the 13.8 volt battery is being supplied for us? and if so how is it hooked up to the machine? also, are the wind, solar, and compressed air supplied for us also?
	We will provide power sources in performance areas: Lantern, Elecgtric Fan, Bicycle foot pump and a 13.8 volt DC 10A Power supply (not a battery). You need to supply your own D batteries if you use the lattern (it takes 4). Please see the TASC rules under Energy Sources for details on each of these items at www.emba.uvm.edu/tasc Each team will determine which power source they choose to use, these or others that need to be approved via the FAQ. It is up your team to determine how they are hooked up to your machine.

9/29	Can we now use water in our track and design?
	Water that is contained can now be considered as a power source. Please read latest information on the FAQ tasc page in this regard. You need to provide the details needed for the judges to assess whether they will approve the use of water in the way that you propose and sufficent details on use for the judges to set a price. Use will not be free.

9/29	Are allowed to use the motor, gearbox, and wheels from a Lionel train engine?
	The rules specify "Prefabricated systems or kits and purchased components like Lionel train sets, Lionel engines, Lionel motor assemblies, Lego train sets, and remote control cars are not allowed. Store-bought components such as pipe, Lionel wheels,engines, rope, wood, PVC tubing are acceptable. Legos are not allowed as components any where in the transportation system including loading or unloading passengers. " The gearbox and the wheels are allowed. The motor assembly is not. Even if the motor assembly from the train was allowed, it is designed to work with an AC supply and only a DC supply will be provided

9/26	We have encountered come confusion based on two previous questions. The answer to one question concerning the change in height of a system and its relation to the addition of PE states that the batteries cannot drop below the height at which they entered the system. The second question says it is ok for the batteries to drop below the "track" into the exit bins. My question is, when the batteries leave the system and enter the exit bins does this count as adding potential energy? Can the batteries leave the system, dropping below the height at which they entered?
	The transportation system cannot drop below the level you first add the batteries (because this would add energy to the system). Batteries may exit the transportation system at a lower level than the transportation system (They can be dropped into exit bins). Batteries can enter the system either below or above the system. The point where the battery first > contacts the transportation system will set the elevation the system cannot go below (except for unloading batteries).

9/26	Can the train move during loading?
	Your transportation system does not need to stop while you load or unload passengers.

9/26	For our system, we are raising our batteries to the height requirment and then letting them fall down a track will we be charged for gravity in this case?
	I assume that you will use a form of energy to move the batteries up to the height since the requirement is that you As long as you are using other energy to move the batteries up to the height. If this is the case, youare using the height to store potential energy and the transformation is occurring with the batteries moving from that height. The FAQs contain several questions on use of height that you may want to look at. The transportation system will start at a given height. You must move the passengers up a rise of 4" with a decline of 4" after the load. You can at no time go below the height you started at (since that would be using unapproved energy). Use of gravity going below the height is not a useful way of operating a transportation system since it provides only one way travel downhill in the same direction. Use of gravity for this purpose will not be approved.

9/25	The disembarking stations must be 12x12x24. Do the stations have to conform to these exact dimensions, or just the total square footage? For example, could we have the base of our station be 5X14?
	Your station must conform to the defined footprint, no more than 12x12x24. 5x14 does not conform to the footprint and would be a violation of the rules. Appendix A lists what the judges will measure to ensure compliance to the rules.

9/25	Can the fan be placed anywhere else around the landscape? Can the Turbine to harvest wind energy be located anywhere else than inside the oval? Does the fan lower enough to aim fully at a harvester withing the 24" restriction, given the 16" riser underneath? Can the loaded car be raised the 4" at one point, all at once?
	The fan will be taped to the floor at the corner of quadrant 1 designated in the updated diagram in the rules. You may not move it to any other location. The specification for the fan and the make/model are given in the rules. You may adjust the tilt, height, and speed using the controls provided on the fan. You may not make any other adjustments. See the other FAQs on fans. All energy gathering or storage mechanisms must be located within the oval/ellipse. See the fan specifications (make and model). The fan is located on a pole and has height and tilt adjustments. Whether it will be able to aim at your harvester depends on your design. You must at some point have a 4" rise in your transportation system. There is no grade restriction. Doing the rise all at once is allowed in the rules.

9/25	Can we define our own quadrants? Do they have to be the four corners as rectangles, or can we make them triangles inside the rectangle space?
	Your demonstration landscape must contain an oval/ellipse and must meet the rectangular size requirements (see appendix A). The quadrants break down the oval into 4 parts. Requirements are defined by quadrant number and you must conform to the requirements as defined. The corners of the rectangle are present to provide easy of movement of the landscape on and off the performance platforms. You may locate items anywhere within the quadrant (1/4 the oval/ellipse) as long as you meet the requirements of space. If you question is "do the load/unload stations need to be at the part of the oval/ellipse nearest the corner.... the answer is no, they do not need to be located there.

9/25	How much time do we have to dump the batteries into the loading station?
	You may use as much of the total run time that you choose. You may make one or several dumps. Jiggling the batteries out one by one to sort them is NOT considered a dump and we will charge for manual loading if you do attempt to sort them by jiggling and dumping one by one.

9/25	Can we unload passengers in the tunnel?
	No..... the tunnel is a required feature in you landscape that is separate from the load/unload stations.

9/25	If we have rises in all parts of our track, can the tunnel work with a rise?
	Yes....... but it must conform to the size requirements.

9/25	Is the track an oval or an elipse?
	Please review the FAQ - this question has been answered...... It can be either.

9/25	Can a battery operated microcontroller chip be used to control electromagnetic relay switches to control the device (off the demonstration landscape?)
	YES as long as you are using this for control purposes only and not adding energy to the system.

9/25	Gravity was said to be an available power source. Is there acharge for using gravity to power your system?
	Yes there will be a charge for any power source used to move your transportation system. You need to describe what you intend to do in detail and the judges will give you a methodology and price. You are allowed to use gravity in your sorting system (dropping batteries into a mechanism. No fee will be used for gravity used for this purpose).

9/24	If you make a riser that is greater than 4 inches in the first quadrant, is it ok to go down only 4 inches within the first quadrant so that the ending height is higher than the landscape level?
	Upon further consideration, the judges have revised the orignal response. There is a requirement that there be a rise of 4" and a return from that rise in quadrant 1. As long as you meet that requirement, you can change the elevation as much as you want (within the rules)..... What you propose is allowed.

9/24	Regarding the $9 labor charge, is $9 for each passenger that is handled, or, is the $9 for loading a bunch of passengers at one station, and then another $9 for unloading a bunch of passengers at another station?
	The charge is $9.00 per passenger.

9/24	Can we add another person to an already registered team?
	Yes, please email the name of the team, school, and the name of the new team member. Remember, teams consist of 2 to 5 team members -- teams can have alternate team members but only 5 team members can exhibit on Saturday, December 6 and there are only 5 prizes for 5 student winners.

9/24	Can there be multiple cars?
	There can be multiple cars. You are not required to use cars.QUESTION: Must transport system always stay on track? eg. can it be in the air? You must stay in the right of way identified in the rules and conform to the tunnel and rise requirements. You are not required to be in contact with the demonstartion landscape.

	Can the tunnel span between 2 quadrants?
	Yes........... as long as it is not in the quadrant with the rise and separate and distinct from the and/unload stations.

	Please explain the dimensional constraints of the elevation.
	There is a requirement that there be a rise of 4" and a return from that rise in quadrant 1. As long as you meet that requirement, you can change the elevation as much as you want (within the rules) You must follow the size constraints. All mechanisms must fit in the right of way and the stations.

	In the rules there is some information that contradicts itself. In the drawing of the layout of the workspace, the stations are labeled 1-4 in a clockwise direction. In the text below the drawing, it says the stations proceed in a counter-clockwise direction. Should we follow what the text says, or the drawing? In other words, should our train travel clockwise, or counter-clockwise?
	The system should proceed counterclockwise from the load station. Thank you for bringing the error in the diagram to our attention. It will be updated and reposted.

	Is there a particular model of Solar Panel to be used, if not could you suggest one and place where we could acquire one?
	As part of the project, you need to select the model of solar collector to use. You might want to check the web or visit a radio shack store for idea. The solar collector must fit into the space in the middle of the landscape oval described in the rules. The Solar Energy that will be provided at the Design TASC Competition will be an Energizer Hard Case Lantern Model #TUF4D1H.

	If you make a riser that is greater than 4 inches in the first quadrant, is it ok to go down only 4 inches within the first quadrant so that the ending height is higher than the landscape level?
	Appendix A specifies:· Minimum of 4” rise (rise to start after the load station and fall to complete before first unload station). If you rise more than 4 ", you must return from the rise before the first unload station. The rules allow you to have the entire transportation system elevated, but the landscape should be level (except for the rise and fall that must start after the load station and end before the first unload station).

	Where exactly is the front right quadrant, or the fan to be placed? Or can we put in any quadrant?
	It will be taped to the floor at the corner of Quadrant 1. You may use any controls provided in the fan to adust height of speed. You may not attach anything to the fan, alter the controls or alter the electrical input.

	The dimensions of the stations are 12 x 12 x 24. Is this "envelope" inside the track, outside the track, straddling the track?
	You may locate the station inside, outside or over the track. You must conform to the defined measurements. These dimensions define space available for you to use and not necessarily a building.

	Does the fan have to be oscillating while we run the machine?
	No, you may use the set controls on the fan to turn oscillation on or off, change tilt or change height. You may not make any modifications to the fan other than what can be accomplished by using the controls provided by the supplier for that purpose. You may not attach anything to the fan, remove it from the floor (it will be taped), or electrically or otherwise modify the controls on the fan.

	How much money do you get for the energy subsides?
	Information on subsidies is in Appendix B of the rules: Subsidies: Energy Subsidy Sbsidy will be granted if you use these energy sources to do any work in the transportation system to move passengers or to load/unload passengers or to stop/start the transportation system. If you use wind as an energy source you will receive a subsidy of: $75.00 If you use solar power as an energy source you will receive a subsidy of: $75.00

	Can there be a straight section of the track, or must it be a continuous curve?
	The right of way must visually look like an oval or ellipse. It can have straight sections, it does not need to be a continuous curve.

	Can the 12 by 12 by 24 inch loading station be tipped on its side so that the base is 12 by 24 and the height is 12 inches?
	No, you cannot use any footprint other than the one specified in the rules. You have the right to use a piece of land on your landscape that is 12 x 12 inches and does not exceed 24 inches in height. You do not need to create a physical station........ you can use open air, but you must stay within the defined footprint.

	What do the lights look like that are going to be used for the solar panels? Please show a picture?
	The solar light will not be from panels, it will be from a Energizer Hard Case Lantern Model #TUF4D1H. You need to bring 4 Energizer D cell batteries for the lantern to ensure have peak power for your runs.Lanterns will be provided in performance areas for teams, along with other sources of power (see page 7 of the TASC rules on line).

	I know it is legal to have an electrical controller outside the landscape, as long as it does not add any power to the system. However, would it be legal to control parts of the system mechanically from outside the landscape. For example, use a bike brake line to control part of the system that does not actually move any batteries, but does, for instance, control the flow of batteries?
	All parts of the mechanism that load or unload or move your system must be located within the space of the right of way or space allocated for stations. The stations are three dimensional "footprints" and may be located inside, outside or over the right of way, but they cannot exceed the space requirements defined. Since your team is too big to fit in the stations, you are allowed control mechanisms like switches, syringes (to activate). The intent is to start or stop a mechanism only.

	Does the entire transportation system have to be within the 6" right of way? The only requirement I found pertaining to this is that the batteries (not the system itself) must travel within the right of way. If we had parts of our system that are sometimes out of the right of way, but do not have any batteries on them at that time, would the system still be legal?
	In the real world of transportation, land is purchased for use of the transportation system. Transportation systems can only use the land that has been acquired for that purpose. Your transportation system must use only the space of the right of way and the space of the load/unload systems. You are not allowed to use any other part of the landscape.

	If passengers are delivered to the wrong station without the right kind of passengers, do we still get a convenience subsidy?
	The convenience subsidy will be based on an audit of your system that the judges will do during the performance run. They will be looking for the number of passengers delivered in a unit of time at a particular station. Passengers delivered to the wrong station are to be put in the "hospital bin" and are counted as passengers delivered to that station. Delivering passengers to the wrong station will not rule out getting a convenience subsidy, but it will reduce your chances and impact your overall score.

	Can there be a 1 cm slit in the inner side of the tunnel?
	NO.......... the tunnel must be like a real tunnel............a path through something solid.

	Last year there was an opportunity to come to UVM on a Saturday morning to a public forum and ask questions. Is there a date scheduled this year for a public question/answer forum?
	We will not have a public forum at UVM prior to UVM Design TASC's Competition on December 6th, however, we are planning to have on-line chat > sessions scheduled for teams at specific times prior to December 6th. All teams that are registered will receive notification via email regarding the times and dates of these chat sessions.

	Is operating something like a switch or a syringe considered labor? For example, pushing a switch to empty a car.
	You are allowed to activate a switch (a syringe is considered a switch) and will not be charged for labor.

	Would small magnets used for sorting the batteries be considered an energy source?
	If they are used for attachment purposes this is not an energy source. If they are used to provide energy, you need to provide more details and get it approved as a new energy source.

v

	Is there a minimum length the tunnel must be? (Could it simply be a wire hoop?)
	See Appendix A: · Tunnel internal dimensions not to exceed 12" long x 6" wide x 8" high

	Can the material used to construct the tunnel be transparent?
	You may use whatever material you wish as long as you meet the size requirements.

	Can we make an elevator?
	Yes.......... but you need to meet the size dimensions.

	Are pre-fab gearboxes legal?
	Yes

	Must the train stop at the stations to unload passengers or can it do a drive-by?
	There is no requirement for the train to stop.

	Is it legal to have the track raised via wood say 6 inches so a bike chain could power the rail system? Also in doing this, still have a total height of 24 inches floor to top but have only 18 inches of use on the design platform?
	Yes this is allowed. Any mechanism to move the chain must be contained within the right of way... or your load/unload stations. This is the only property your have access to. You are not allowed to use the area on either side of the right of way. Dimension requirements in Appendix must be met.

	Can we have our delivery station inside and outside of the 6 inch oval right of way?
	You are allowed the station dimensions as extensions to the oval. It is your choice whether this sits on/over the right of way, is inside or outside. Any loading or unloading must be contained within the dimensions of the station.

	The loading station dimensions are 12x12x24. Is there any way that we can have chutes that connect this box to the track, or does that 12x12x24 box have to directly deliver our batteries to our train track?
	The station dimensions represent the amount of land allowed for loading or unloading. You may use chutes to connect to your track, but the space taken up by your chutes and all other parts of your load or unload stations must conform to this dimension. There is no requirement that you have a physical station. You can have the entire mechanism "open air" as long as it meets the space requirement.

	Is there any advantage to delivering the batteries before the five minutes? In other words, will we receive a subsidy for finishing in three minutes, for example?
	No there is no subsidy and there may be a penalty. For a real transportation system, an auditor would be hired to check consistency of delivery since transportation systems that offer more possible stops get more riders. The judges will check station/stations at given time intervals during the competition to assess consistency. Teams providing consistency will receive the subsidy indicated in the rules. Like in a real audit, the exact time and place of the audit will not be released to the "owners" before the audit. Judges will be given the information. Participants will not (you can ask after the competition runs are complete.......... different places will be audited in different runs).

	Are we REQUIRED to have batteries transported on a "track" (monorail, train-type tracks, etc...), and are we REQUIRED to have an engine?
	You are required to operate within the right of way defined. There is not requirement to have a track or an engine. Any mechanism to move the batteries must also fit within the defined right of way.

	Would the judges consider "gravity" as a form of "alternative energy"? Even if it is not, can gravity still at least be used as an energy source?
	Gravity could be used as an energy source. Details need to be provided to have it appropriately assessed. Water is not allowed in the gym because of potential damage to the floor. There will be a charge assigned for all types of energy other than solar (light) or wind (fan). After more details are provided, the judges will assign a $ cost to new energy sources..

	Can magnets be used to hold the batteries to our transportation system? That is, the magnets would not be used as stored energy, only as a type of "connector" for the battery and the system.
	Yes

	If possible could you show the position of the fan with dimensions on your "Figure 1. Landscape Specifications"?
	It will be located at the corner of QUADRANT 1.

	Exactly where will the fan be located? In the rules it says 'front right corner (see diagram)' , is the front right corner considered quadrant #1? How far away from the corner of the plywood will either the front of the fan or the base pole that it rests on be?
	The fan will be taped to the floor as close to the corner specified in the diagram as the legs on the fan will allow. The intent is to have the edge of the fan at the corner of the riser. We cannot give you an exact distance since we will not know until the night before the competition. It will be somewhere from touching the corner to within a couple inches of the corner of the riser.

	What speed will the fan be on during competition?
	You may choose the speed, adjust the height and the angle. You may not remove it from the floor. You may use only the adjustment available on this fan. You may not alter the electric signal going into the fan or in any way modify the fan beyond the adjustment provided with this model of fan.

	Will the fan be oscillating during the competition?
	You may adjust the height and angle of the fan and set a direction or allow it to oscillate.

	Are mechanical switches allowed to control device operations?
	Yes

	Can we make an elevator?
	Yes

	Are pre-fab gearboxes legal?
	Yes

	Must the train stop at the stations to unload passengers or can it do a drive-by?
	Stopping is not required.

	Can we use Fisher Techniks for our sorter, not for the train or anything just our hooper?
	NO....... Lego and Lego like components are not allowed.

	Are we REQUIRED to have batteries transported on a "track" (monorail, train-type tracks, etc...), and are we REQUIRED to have an engine?
	The batteries must be transported only in the right of way described in the rules. This means that they cannot travel any other path other than that of the right of way. You are not required to have a track or an engine. You cannot use the center of the landscape or the outside of the landscape for mechanisms to move the batteries. Whatever mechanism you create to m