Parachute Payload System

[SPP SciO]

Also based on my interpretation of rule 2b, you have to tape string directly to ping pong.

Interesting interpretation. They haven’t used that in an official competition so it hasn’t been an issue yet. Rule 2b doesn’t mention string whatsoever though - just “parachute”. I had been interpreting “tape only” to mean no glue or ball-altering hardware.

I think xiangyu's train of thought was that the rule describing that parachutes "must be attached to ping pong balls with tape only" implied that you have to attach your string (or whatever you are using to connect the parachute to the ball) to the ping pong ball directly rather than to a vessel carrying the ball. I interpreted the rule similarly, focusing more on the part describing the attachment to the ping pong balls rather than the part addressing the tape.

If that’s the case, a tiny piece of tape touching the ball and the plastic film “basket” would meet that criteria. But still, I think the terms “parachute” and “parachute payload system” are broad enough to allow for that design. Bigger picture - the general rules allow anything that’s not specifically prohibited, and the spirit of SO promotes variety. As a coach I’ll let my students compete with any device I’d be prepared to defend in an appeal, so if they decide to keep this, I’m ok with it.

[xiangyu]

If that’s the case, a tiny piece of tape touching the ball and the plastic film “basket” would meet that criteria. But still, I think the terms “parachute” and “parachute payload system” are broad enough to allow for that design. Bigger picture - the general rules allow anything that’s not specifically prohibited, and the spirit of SO promotes variety. As a coach I’ll let my students compete with any device I’d be prepared to defend in an appeal, so if they decide to keep this, I’m ok with it.

Either way an official FAQ will be helpful. I will submit one and let you guys know if I get an answer. Although tbh idk if a vessel would actually help the ping pong ball, it adds weight and I'm not sure what the benefits are...