In years past, DC motors were used to turn wheels that were in contact with the floor. Starting in
the Spring of 2002, we will use fans from the inside of old PC computers to propel the vehicle forward.
Some of the parts for these vehicles will be supplied during class.
1. Construct a vehicle powered only by two standard 9 Volt battery and the motor provided. No other stored energy supplies - including springs or gravitational potential energy - may be used.
2. The components provided will be used in the semesters that follow. Please take care of the parts provided. Do not cut the wires of the fan motor or other parts provided.
3. The course will be 50' long. The race will be begin near the Physics Resource Center (PRC) and end near the mirror on the third floor of the science building. You should scout out that area and take note of any obstacles in that area (including chairs and doorstops).
4. The owner must release the vehicle from rest. The owner cannot touch the vehicle during the race unless instructed to do so. Each vehicle will run the course separately.
5. Each person will have only 6 minutes to set up the vehicle and run the course. Each vehicle will run the course separately. (10 vehicles times 6 minutes/vehicle = 60 minutes).
6. Scoring will be based on the time to complete the course. Partial credit will be given. Grading: 6 Minute Setup-and-Run Time (10 points), Working Vehicle (20 points), Completing the Course (70 points), Vehicle Touched by Owner (-10 points each time), Satisfaction in Completing the Course (Priceless).
7. Questions about the construction of the vehicle or the rules will be answered during office hours.
