Electrical Components
Electrical components are powered by the flow of electrical charges through switches, circuits, pulleys, or other devices.
- Junior Division: All electrical components must be powered by a source within the machine, such as a battery.
- Senior Division: Electrical components may be powered by a battery or a wall outlet. If using a wall outlet, the machine must have a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) between it and the source outlet.
All electrical components must be used as intended by the manufacturer. Broken, repaired, or improperly used components are not allowed.
Defining Electronic vs. Electric Steps
Electric steps involve basic circuits, like turning a light on or off, without programming. They convert electrical energy into mechanical energy or light and do not include programmable elements.
Electronic steps require programming or advanced control, like microcontrollers or sensors. They automate parts of the machine beyond simple electrical tasks.
Limitation on Electronic Steps: Teams are limited to two electronic steps in their machines to maintain the focus on mechanical problem-solving and ensure fairness. This prevents reliance on high-tech solutions that could overshadow basic engineering and physics principles. Each step beyond the two step limit that relies on electronics will result in a 10-point penalty.
Electronic components must be prominently visible and obvious to the judges and not hidden within the machine.