Robot Art/Best Modified Appliance

Object: Build, or modify, something along aesthetically pleasing lines that moves deliberately by itself. Purposefulness not essential. Class A includes devices built entirely from scratch. Class B includes devices which are commonplace (toys, appliances, etc.) that have been extended or expanded from their original function while still retaining their basic shape.


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Competitor Design Parameters (Both A and B Classes)

Class A: Robot Art (or robot sculpture): The only requirement is that the work must move, blink or animate in some way. To give it a small bias, consideration will be given to devices that use solar energy in ambient lighting environments, and feature no "off" switch.

Class B: Modified Appliance/Toy: The object is to take a standard toy design of any type and modify it both physically and electronically so that it is demonstrably "better" than it was. It is not sufficient to just attach components randomly, Competitors will be judged on how the modifications have improved the original design.

A device must have had a significant improvement made to its original function so as to qualify. Devices must have self-contained power and, if capable, will be allowed to compete in any of the other competitions if pre-registered to do so.

For both classes:

  1. Devices must have some sort of self-starting capacity which is derived from a deliberate conversion of electrical power into another form (i.e.: motorized toilets are allowed. Breeze-powered mobiles are not).
  2. Competitors may be of any size up to where said competitors cannot fit through a normal office door. There is no minimum size restriction.
  3. Robot Competitors must not deliberately damage, soak, or scratch the display areas, other competitors, judges, or spectators in any way. The judges will disqualify any competitor they feel represents a danger.
  4. The device must use only mechanical power, or mechanical power converted from a source of electrical energy. Chemical, compressed gas, nuclear, or combustion power methods are not allowed to run in the competition area, though they will be allowed to run outside if acceptable to the designers and judges. Devices must not be dangerous, threatening, or explosive.

Judging

All entries will be judged on designer interviews and device demonstrations, with an eye to originality, behavior and quality of workmanship. Audience opinion shall weigh heavily in the final selection of winners.


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