Mission Course

[Shanklincj]

When placing the water sample collection on the drop off hook can it be placed on there with either the rope or zip tie or does it have to be placed on the hook with the zip tie like they received it from the ASV?

[David Young]

When placing the water sample collection on the drop off hook can it be placed on there with either the rope or zip tie or does it have to be placed on the hook with the zip tie like they received it from the ASV?

Placed on the hook with either loop.

[Shanklincj]

Thank you. I read that the marine life “orientation may vary”. Does this mean the sea star without the zip tie can be oriented upside down?

[David Young]

Thank you. I read that the marine life “orientation may vary”. Does this mean the sea star without the zip tie can be oriented upside down?

Thanks for your questions, they help the whole community.

Yes, but sea star could be completely flat in either direction, since "The elbows may be oriented differently than shown for the International Challenge." (per the build guide). Lifting this sea star is intended to be very challenging.

[sean7]

Dumb question, but does anyone know where to get the materials for the mission course? Is there a spot where you can just get everything needed to build the course?

[David Young]

Dumb question, but does anyone know where to get the materials for the mission course? Is there a spot where you can just get everything needed to build the course?

Did you download the 2023 Build Guide? Available on the Course Build Guide resource card at https://seaperch.org/programs/2023-season/
Direct link: https://robonation.org/app/uploads/s...rses_FINAL.pdf
The Master parts list is referenced in the guide. Direct link at: http://www.seaperch.org/2023-SeaPerc...ter-Parts-List There are vendor links in this spreadsheet

Are you starting from scratch?

[Patricia]

Since bonus points are awarded for completing the Mission Challenge is under 6 and under 4 minutes, have you found that all tasks can be accomplished in that time frame? Trying to gauge what is a reasonable expectation of time -- 10 minutes? 12 minutes?

[Shanklincj]

At first glance it may seem like under 6 minutes is impossible. But after tackling one task at a time and timing each it is very possible. The key is good attachments and repetition.

[David Young]

Since bonus points are awarded for completing the Mission Challenge is under 6 and under 4 minutes, have you found that all tasks can be accomplished in that time frame? Trying to gauge what is a reasonable expectation of time -- 10 minutes? 12 minutes?

I built and tested the course and can complete it in under 10 minutes. High performing teams should be able to complete it in under 6 minutes.

As Shanklincj mentioned above; "good attachments and repetition."
Design attachments for the tasks.
Create a strategy that will minimize wasted time.
Practice a lot (driving and driver/tether handler communications).
Tether handling is very important for this year's mission course.