Sand Timer Task

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illusionist
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by illusionist »

All of my other tasks are finished in around 20 seconds. That means I have to run my sand timer (it's the last task) for aobut 40 seconds. The only way I could think of to do that is to use a really small hole for my funnel (my funnel is an upside-down coke bottle). But then the problem is that it clogs, and the sand flow is inconsistent. What have you guys done to run your device for the ideal time of 60 seconds? If you used a smaller hole, how did that work for you?
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by kcanvan »

I have an issue with some of the sand bouncing uncontrollably.. if even a few grains of sand leave the 50x50x80 box, will the 50 point deduction still be given?
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by Primate »

kcanvan wrote:I have an issue with some of the sand bouncing uncontrollably.. if even a few grains of sand leave the 50x50x80 box, will the 50 point deduction still be given?
Most likely. Put up a plexiglass wall on the leaky side(s) of your device.
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by illusionist »

Have judges been very particular that you have to use sand? Or have you been allowed to use sugar or salt?
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by unquantumphysics »

What in the world is the "ideal time"?
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by illusionist »

Read the rules. ITs the time that your device should operate closest to. It's 60 seconds at regionals. Read the rules under Competition.
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by Flavorflav »

illusionist wrote:Have judges been very particular that you have to use sand? Or have you been allowed to use sugar or salt?
It would be an enormous risk for little or no benefit, IMO.
Primate wrote:
kcanvan wrote:I have an issue with some of the sand bouncing uncontrollably.. if even a few grains of sand leave the 50x50x80 box, will the 50 point deduction still be given?
Most likely. Put up a plexiglass wall on the leaky side(s) of your device.
Or if you are pressed for time, manila folder will do.
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by illusionist »

It wasn't for a benefit, but rather for the lack of materials. Here in Michigan where I live, there is very little sand. I'll go see if I can find some in a craft store
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by Primate »

illusionist wrote:It wasn't for a benefit, but rather for the lack of materials. Here in Michigan where I live, there is very little sand. I'll go see if I can find some in a craft store
Michaels sells some sand art sand (I believe it's officially dubbed "craft sand") that works wonderfully.
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Re: Sand Timer Task

Post by chalker »

illusionist wrote:It wasn't for a benefit, but rather for the lack of materials. Here in Michigan where I live, there is very little sand. I'll go see if I can find some in a craft store
Have you tried Home Depot or Lowes or a local hardware store? Sand isn't used just for playgrounds, it's also commonly required for bricklaying, tiles and paver stones. I'd be shocked if you can't find a bag of it in one of these stores. My local store (in Ohio, just south of you;) has 40 lb bags for $2.50.

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