Mission Possible B

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Mission Possible B

Mission Possible B is very similar to Mission Possible C in its implementation. The B division does not include any energy sources outside of gravity and is based on energy transfer between different simple machines such as levers of different classes, pulleys, screws, inclined planes, wheel and axles, wedge etc. Each simple machine is specifically explained in the rules. Any deviation from these rules will result in the loss of points. ex. an wedge must be used as a "wedge" to lift or separate something. A wedge cannot just "push something off of a surface, it must exhibit "genuine wedge action". Rules for this even are very specific but do allow a great amount of creativity in how you use and connect your machines. The k.i.s.s. principal is your friend: keep it simple, stupid. reliability is the goal! The action transfer list is also very important. you only receive points you claim to get, no more, but you can get less.

Tip: KNOW THE RULES! know them like you know your best friend! They are your best friend when you follow them, but can quickly become your worst enemy when you decide not to look at the details.

Key Points

1. The action of each simple machine will determine which of the eight types of simple machines it is most like.

2. Find out when the Simple Machines List is to be given to the Tournament Director. Meet the deadline. Resist changing the device after this. Spend time perfecting the device.

3. Label the actual simple machines and make sure that the numbers match the Simple Machines List.

4. The simple machines of the same type do not have to be unique. Note that consecutive machines of the same type (even though unique) still only count as one machine.

5. Make sure to meet the general requirements, since failure to do so is a severe penalty. Make sure that all parts of the device, including the outer walls and base plate fall within the legal dimensions of the device.

6. Be safe by using a mechanical timer. The sand and water in the pulley system should account for any needed use of extra time.

7. Do not use any loops or parallel paths in the device. Make sure that the action is linear from start to finish.

8. The highest part of the device automatically designates the top boundary of the device. Make sure that the tennis ball is dropped from above this boundary. 9. You can start parts of the device operating before dropping the ball (such as pendulums, springs, etc.).

10. You will not be allowed to touch the device at or beyond the next-to-last simple machine. Make sure that this works every time.

11. Remember that you will probably lose any positive points for time if your device fails to complete the task, but continues to operate.

12. The only thing that should control how much toilet tissue unrolls is the operation of the last wheel & axle.