Reuse Tracks?

[builder83]

Just clarifying...

Rules state no potential energy may be used, so that means the vehicle cannot engage a pulley system to reuse part of the track?

If so, since the start and finish lines may not be adjusted, the physical track or portions of the track must be manipulated during the 8 minute test time to adjust for a 20 second to 45 second target time? Seems tricky! I think I noticed the high school competition could adjust their finish line in previous years.

[cool hand luke]

Where would the energy for the pulley system come from? Last year as a trial event in texas you could move the start and finish line, so this does add another level of challenge.

[JionPark]

Could anyone use anything for the tracks except the HotWheel tracks?

[drcubbin]

Just clarifying...

Rules state no potential energy may be used, so that means the vehicle cannot engage a pulley system to reuse part of the track?

If so, since the start and finish lines may not be adjusted, the physical track or portions of the track must be manipulated during the 8 minute test time to adjust for a 20 second to 45 second target time? Seems tricky! I think I noticed the high school competition could adjust their finish line in previous years.

From soinc.org
"(Section: 3 / Paragraph: f / Line: 2)
10/23/2017
CAN THE FINISH LINE BE SET ON A TRACK AFFIXED TO A BOARD THAT MIGHT BE ADJUSTED OR DOES IT HAVE TO BE ON A PIECE OF TRACK THAT IS UNMOVABLE?
Yes, the finish line can be on a board that is adjustable with respect to the rest of the device."

[SamDream]

Could anyone use anything for the tracks except the HotWheel tracks?

I went to the build event conference and the manager of the event said it was not legal to use Hot Wheels track as it was made for that specific purpose. You must use a track that is not commercially used specific to holding a vehicle. You can use 10 or 12 gauge metal wires for example, they are not made for holding marbles.

[AndrewGatt]

Could anyone use anything for the tracks except the HotWheel tracks?

I went to the build event conference and the manager of the event said it was not legal to use Hot Wheels track as it was made for that specific purpose. You must use a track that is not commercially used specific to holding a vehicle. You can use 10 or 12 gauge metal wires for example, they are not made for holding marbles.

Unless your state specifically states that Hot Wheels tracks are not allowed, like Virginia has, Hot Wheel tracks are allowed. The trial events contested in some states last year did not allow commercial tracks but the rules this year don't have that stipulation.

[retired1]

I would have assumed that pvc pipe with the top half +/- would be optimal. did I miss something?