Scioly.org

Is use of laser allowed for sighting/targeting during competition?

If allowed, and if it does use AA batteries, can it be separate set batteries outside of the 8 (or less)AA batteries on the buggy?

Rule 3.f: "Electric/electronic tools of any sort, except a stand-alone calculator, are prohibited."
So no, you can't use a laser.

Rule 3.e makes it a bit vague though. "All energy for propulsion must be electric and come from the batteries. Any non-propulsive functions (e.g., a braking system) may be powered by either electric or non-electric storage devices. If electrical, the voltage must come from the same batteries being used for propulsion." Does that mean that since lasers are non propulsive, as long as you use AA batteries, its fine?

Participants may purchase or make components (e.g., motors, gearboxes, bodies, and chassis).
Electrical components are limited to batteries, wires, motors, switches, resistors, potentiometers, and
mechanical relays. Electric/electronic tools of any sort, except a stand-alone calculator, are
prohibited. I guess ur not allowed to use them since lasers count as electrical components?

sciolyperson1 wrote:Rule 3.f: "Electric/electronic tools of any sort, except a stand-alone calculator, are prohibited."
So no, you can't use a laser.

Rule 3.e makes it a bit vague though. "All energy for propulsion must be electric and come from the batteries. Any non-propulsive functions (e.g., a braking system) may be powered by either electric or non-electric storage devices. If electrical, the voltage must come from the same batteries being used for propulsion." Does that mean that since lasers are non propulsive, as long as you use AA batteries, its fine?

I always found this rule odd too. What else would the batteries power other than a motor? Is there an electric brake pad system that would work? Put headlights on the front? How about some music as it strolls along for 3 or 4 seconds?

I really think a laser should be allowed as long as you are using 1 of your 8 batteries for it. They try to make this B event harder than EV for high school. It's fun but man the event is complex this year with changing distance, length, and now arc of vehicle with a mechanical scope.

I like the idea of playing music during my run... a clarification please?

MadCow2357 wrote:I like the idea of playing music during my run... a clarification please?

Good luck doing that whilst staying within rule 3f. No semiconductors, remember.

(deleted)

tsgrini wrote: Is use of laser allowed for sighting/targeting during competition?

If allowed, and if it does use AA batteries, can it be separate set batteries outside of the 8 (or less)AA batteries on the buggy?

You can use a protractor right? Just measure your angle off of the start line.

Sciencer101 wrote:

tsgrini wrote: Is use of laser allowed for sighting/targeting during competition?

If allowed, and if it does use AA batteries, can it be separate set batteries outside of the 8 (or less)AA batteries on the buggy?

You can use a protractor right? Just measure your angle off of the start line.

Yes, you may use a protractor.
Opinions expressed on this site are not official; the only place for official rules changes and FAQs is soinc.org.

The trick is to make a 90 degree angle with your hands and try to get it as close as possible. Try this and you will win state and nationals.