Q1: Is it permitted to REGISTER A SINGLE STUDENT for two different competitions (as long as the competitions occur at different times)?
Yes, as long as the student meets the criteria for eligibility in the posted rules for the applicable competitions. Check times as multiple competitions will be occurring simultaneously.
Q2: Are the RULES that are currently posted on the conference website final because we have been keeping track since the first version came out, and there have been some changes?
All of the rules that are currently posted online are the final versions. Any rule interpretations at this point will be posted on this page of the conference website.
Q3:WOOD DAM: Are we allowed to modify the wooden Popsicle sticks? Like breaking them in half, or bending them?
You may bend and/or break the Popsicle sticks.
Q4: Can we use the holes in the cat carrier to insert supports for the DAM?
The dam will be caulked in place. The "holes" in the cat carrier cannot be used to secure the dam.
Q5: Can we have an arched DAM, or a dam that does not have the exact dimensions of the opening?
You can have an arched dam. You are still limited to the number of Popsicle sticks and excessive leakage. If it will not fit in the opening of the cat carrier and be caulked in place, it will be disqualified.
Q6: Can you post the DIMENSIONS of the entire cat carrier? Also, we would like to know if the 5 gallons of water are going to be measured from the bottom of the opening or from the bottom of the carrier itself. We would like to have this information to be able to properly run an analysis.
A 5 gallon bucket will be used to fill the area behind the DAM in the cat carrier after the dam is installed. The open end of the carrier is defined in the rules. This is one end of the carrier. The rest of the carrier will be filled with the 5 gallons of water.
Q7:BALSA WOOD BRIDGE: Can the supports be shaved off to match the slope of the bridge? That way they stand co planar with the abutment and pier.
Yes.
Q8:CONCRETE CORNHOLE: If a first round bye is awarded to a team, will it be counted in the calculation of the win percentage and, if so, how? Justification: Inclusion of the bye as a win or a loss in the calculation will obscure the true point value of the tournament portion of total scoring. For example, tournament play represents 50% of possible points for this competition, but due to the fact that byes are awarded based on strong performance in the other two categories of scoring, inclusion of the bye in the calculation actually will change the weight of performance in the aesthetics and technical scoring by automatically impacting scoring in the tournament play as well.
The reason for a first round bye is to even out the number of teams participating in the double elimination format. Any team that receives a first round bye will receive a victory for the first round bye.
Q9:GEOTECHNICAL: Does the 3 inch limitation on fill material also restrict binding materials, such as spray foam? Justification: The requirement of creating a 1ft square cube out of fill material for unconfined compression testing would require the use of some sort of binding agent or connection scheme to maintain the 1ft square dimensions prior to testing. It seems impractical that binding agents, such as foam, cannot be continuous throughout the cube as such an implication would require either excessive void ratios, excessive weight, or impractical construction (such as a lattice framework) in order to accomplish.
Binding agents are permitted; however, the cube cannot exceed the weight limit specified, and the cube cannot consist of foam only.
Q10:CONCRETE FRISBEE: Under the Material Specifications section (p. 2) it says: "The primary composition of the concrete Frisbee must be Portland cement".
Does that mean overall or just the main component of the cementitious material? Can you clarify this please? Maybe establish a percentage? Like: "more than ##% of the overall composition should be Portland cement" or "##% of the cementitious material should be Portland cement".
Students are to build a concrete Frisbee made primarily of concrete, but may be reinforced concrete. So assume it is 90% concrete. The Frisbee may be made of lightweight concrete. No steel reinforcement may be used; however, fibers or similar additives may be used. A structure made of another material (say Styrofoam, wood, plastic etc.) covered in a thin layer of concrete is not permitted.
Q11:CONCRETE FRISBEE: The specifications say that "no coatings that increase the hardness" are allowed, but what about latex or superplasticizer in the concrete mix that would not create a layer outside the Frisbee?
No latex. Superplasticizer used to increase strength of the concrete by reducing water use is permitted, but remember you will be throwing the Frisbee.
Q12:CONCRETE LADDER GOLF: In the overview section (p. 1) it's stated that each school will provide a ladder. Later on, it's said that there will be 3 ladder golf stands that will be provided by FAU. Could you clarify this?
All schools must provide their own ladders. FAU will not provide any ladders.
Q13:CONCRETE LADDER GOLF: The dimensions of the stands allow a 2 in. margin, how are we going to know the exact dimensions our ladder is supposed to have to be able to fit there?
The ladder golf stands will meet the requirements of a standard ladder golf stand. the width of the stand will be 24 ± 2inches; the height will be 39 ± 2 inches; the spacing between each scoring rack will be 13 ± 2 inches; the ladder shall be made of schedule 40 PVC pipe (1-inch diameter).
Q14:THEME DISPLAY: If we use soda cans or water bottles that have been discarded, do we have to include the cost of each individual object in the cost estimate as part of the budget?
Discarded items such as used water bottles or soda cans are considered "free materials" for the purpose of cost estimating in the conference theme display competition.
Q15: Will a list of national ASCE member ID numbers be needed at registration?
No, a list is not mandatory, but if your eligibility for a national award or competition award is in doubt, then proof of membership would be useful.
Q16:GEOTECHNICAL CHALLENGE: Please elaborate on your definition of “recycled”. In addition, specifically what type of metals, if any, are allowed.
"Recycled material" is defined as anything that you would find acceptable in a solid waste recycling home pickup service - this would include aluminum and steel cans. For more information, visit swa.org/192/Recycling-at-Home. Keep in mind that there is a weight limit for the cube.
Q17:CONCRETE CYLINDER: Is the mix design spreadsheet that is required on February 17 supposed to be composed of the final mix design?
Yes.
Q18: According to the National Rules for the Concrete Canoe, the exact due date, etc. for the DESIGN PAPER and PROJECT OVERVIEW and TECHNICAL ADDENDUM is set by the host school. Please list the due dates, times, and email address for each of these.
The concrete canoe paper is to Feb. 24, 2017 at 5 p.m. EST at 2017asce@fau.edu, also a separate mailer will be sent with a summary of deadlines for all competitions.
Q19: The standard dimensions for small Popsicle Sticks are 4.5" x 3/8". However, the rules specify dimensions to be used are 4" x 3/8". Is this correct? Meaning every stick needs to be cut half an inch or was the standard size intended to be used?
The standard dimensions for small Popsicle sticks are 4.5" x 3/8" You have correctly identified a typo in the published rules. You must use the standard Popsicle sticks and do not need to alter any dimension to be within the rules.
Q20:WOOD DAM: Could you please clarify the load testing procedure? Once the dam is caulked in place, will the five gallons be added to the carrier while dry? or will there be a pre-fill volume added to match the bottom elevation of the dam? Will the water be added via hose or bucket?
Water will be added using a 5-gallon Home Depot paint bucket once the dam has been caulked in place. Practically, some small amount of water may still remain in the bottom of the carrier from the previous loading.
Q21:WOOD DAM: Are we allowed to exceed the dimensions of the carrier opening? i.e. having small cantilevers on the sides or on the bottom?
You will need to exceed the dimensions of the carrier opening so that the dam can be caulked into place.
Q22:LADDER GOLF: Does the size of the pipe for the stand have to be 1 inch, or is that the maximum pipe size?
The pipe dimension will be 1 inch diameter.
Q23: LADDER GOLF: Is there no dimension requirements for the base of the stand?
No, but the base must support the moving balls.
Q24: LADDER GOLF: Can the base of the stand have concrete in it or does it have to be hollow?
The base is to be hollow PVC.
Q25: LADDER GOLF: Can we add additional graphics, like flags, onto the stand? To the base of the stand?
Only striping is permitted. No flags are permitted.
Q26:WOOD DAM: Since the cat carrier opening is not level with the bottom the wood dam, how are you going to account for the water that doesn’t drain because of the indentation at the bottom?
The small amount of water that remains in the indentation will be neglected in the calculation.
Q27:THEME DISPLAY: Can you elaborate on "toxic to animals"? We are interested in using small collected objects in the construction and decoration of our display but everything would be mounted securely.
“Toxic to animals” would be anything that if ingested or exposed to pets or wildlife, would potentially cause harm based on federal rules (RCRA, TSCA, etc). That would also include the glue or adhesive if used in this case.
Q28:WOOD DAM: In the objective, it says "The model will be tested to determine the flow rate to expel 5 gallons of water (without refilling) in as close to 5 minutes as possible." Would it be possible to get more details on this? What exactly is meant by expel? Will water be poured in on one side of the cat carrier? Is it meant to hold the water for five minutes or has to pour through the dam for five minutes? We want to know if the cat carrier is going to be filled with wáter and then 5 additional gallons will be poured or is it exactly 5 gallons?
The dam will be made of standard wood popsicle sticks (3/8 inch x 4 inch). It will be caulked in place in the cat carrier using 100% silicon caulk commercially available at your local hardware supply. 5 gallons of water will be added behind the dam in one pour from a 5 gallon bucket. Then the discharge hole in the dam will be opened. The team that is closest to emptying all of the water behind the dam in 5 minutes gets the best score.
“Expel” means “discharge”.
Q29: Is the Concrete Canoe paper due the day of the competition (March 17)? or delivered electronically with the materials and equipment (Feb. 10)?
The concrete canoe paper is due electronically on Feb. 24, 2017 at 11:59 pm sent to 2017ASCE@fau.edu.
Q30: What brand of caulk will be used. Also if it will be a 100% silicon caulk, acrylic caulk or some other?
100% silicon caulk commercially available at your local hardware supply
Q31: Does the 3 inch limitation of each material used referred to the materials dimensions in its natural state?
Yes.
Q32:CONCRETE CORNHOLE: The rules state that the university name must be displayed on the board. Can a shortened version of the name be used? For example, can the University of Florida have a board that says UF?
Yes, an abbreviation of the school name is acceptable.
Q33: Does the water flow through a hole designed in the dam or just flow under the bottom of the dam like passing through a sluicegate?
The dam will require a discharge hole to allow the water out. The dam should not leak after filling with the 5 gallons of water. The dam should hold back the water, not act as a sluice. Caulk will be on the bottom as well as the sides.
Q34:WOOD DAM: Is there any requirement about the thickness of the wood dam? What are the specific dimensions of the cat carrier? Is it essential for the popsicle stick to accurately meet the required specification (3/8”×4”)? Are material dimensional deviations tolerated?
No, but remember there is a strict limit of 1000 popsicle sticks that can be used in the construction. The dimensions are posted in the rules. As long as standard popsicle sticks (3/8 inch x 4 inch) are used, you will be in compliance with the rules.
Q35: At what height from the bottom of the cat carrier will the bottom of the dam be?
Dam will be placed flush with the bottom of the cat carrier. There is a small lip on the bottom (which will be used to keep the dam in place). Please refer to the photo in the rules.
Q36:CONCRETE CANOE: The rules state that the stands that the concrete canoe sit on for display may be 2.5 - 4' below the canoe. With our theme we wanted to have something that sticks out of our stands, goes around the canoe and sits above the canoe. Is there anything against that or is there anything that states we cannot have things above our stands? It is not a canopy it is decorative.
The 2.5 – 4 ft dimension refers to the height of the bottom of the canoe to the floor during display. There is nothing to prevent items from sticking out above or below unless they constitute a safety hazard.
Q37:THEME DISPLAY: Are all discarded materials considered "free materials"? Such as the various materials taken from landfills and demolition sites?
Yes
Q38: Do the recycled materials used have to be no more than 3" in any direction in their natural state or can they be cut down to this dimension?
Yes. This seems to pertain to the Geo-technical Lightweight Fill competition, but a specific competition was not specified.
Q39: Please advise on acceptable binding agents (ei. Polyurethane Foam, ect.). For example: do they have to be "recycled" oriented as well? Can they also be cement based? Can they at one point have been a liquid prior to competition (ei. polyurethane adhesive, "liquid nails", ect.)?
For the lightweight fill competition, the acceptable binding agents may be cement-based, or may have been a liquid prior to the competition.
Q40:LADDER GOLF: Would poraver be considered recycled material for the design mix?
If it recycled glass, then it would be considered “recyclable.”
Q41: Are the ladder golf stands that we are bringing allowed to be decorated? Spray painting a design onto them for instance?
No, only stickers or tape are allowed.
Q42:ENVIRONMENTAL COMPETITION: If we have materials that have been donated from the department, do we include this in the cost? Also, is the cost per material used or a total cost of material bought?
Yes, every effort must be made to obtain current material costs for donated items as if they were purchased specifically for the project. If you purchased a 1 ton bag of sand, but used only 100 grams, the cost reported would the price of the 1 ton bag multiplied by the percentage used.
Q43:GEOTECHNICAL: Is there an actual material properties form or do we just make one and insert the table into the report?
The material properties form can be found on the competition page in the pdf print version.
Q44: For eligibility to submit a professional paper, the rules say the competitor cannot be a graduate student. Does this mean a graduate student at the time of the competition? We have a student that was an undergraduate in the fall and they are now a graduate student but want to compete in this competition.
No, participants cannot be graduate students at the time of competition.
Q44:GEOTECHNICAL FILL: Are rubber materials, such as bicycle tires, eligible to be used as a recyclable material in this competition?
Yes, rubber materials are considered recyclable for the geotechnical fill competition.
Q45: In the balsa wood bridge dimension specifications, the fifth bullet point states “Continuous bridge deck with a minimum thickness of 0.125"”. What exactly is meant by continuous? I interpret it to be that there should be no holes or gaps in the deck of the bridge. So, for example, if I am using 0.25" balsa strips, would I need 36 balsa strips to span the width of the bridge (9"); or, should I cover the deck with a balsa sheet, as the first option is essentially laminating, which is not allowed?
3-inch width balsa wood sheets are common, and gluing 3 of them side-by-side over the 36-inch length of the bridge is acceptable. Using much smaller members at 0.25-inch width, and joining them with glue along their length, would be considered “excessive glue assisting with the strength and stability of the bridge”. As mentioned, this would be considered laminating and is not allowed. A clarification concerning the joining of members in the longitudinal direction of the bridge - it is acceptable to join balsa wood sheets along the length of bridge in the construction of a structural shape such as an plate-girder or box-girder.
Q46:ENVIRONMENTAL: The equipment provided for this competition will be equivalent to what would be found in a standard environmental chemistry laboratory. Does this include a flocculation mixer, funnels, burettes, pH meter, various beaker sizes, flasks, and a vacuum? In terms of cost, what will be included in that? Does the cost take into consideration all the equipment used, chemicals, materials, technology, etc.?
The use of a calibrated pH meter and UV-Vis spectrophotometer will be provided. All other equipment including mixers, funnels, glassware, vacuum pumps, etc. will have to be provided by the participating team and also included in the cost. The cost will include all chemicals and equipment used other than the pH meter and UV-Vis spectrophotometer.
Q47:ENVIRONMENTAL: I was curious as to how the final sample of the treated water will be taken—I understand that it’s using a spectrophotometer, but will it be taken from a particular physical location (i.e. top, middle, bottom) of our container?
The sample will be taken by the judges from the effluent provided after treatment.
Q48:THEME DISPLAY: Are we allowed to use abbreviations of our school name? Is the QA from Concrete corn hole applicable to the Theme Display?
Yes, an abbreviation of the school name is acceptable.
Q49:CONCRETE CANOE: On the Q&A site there is another question regarding due dates for the concrete canoe paper, which is February 24th. There is a mentioning of another due date, February 10th. What is due on this day because there is not mentioning of it on any of the canoe competition pages?
Q50:SERVICE PROJECT: Would canstruction, which is where we designed a structure of cans in autocad then collected them and built it with many other organizations on a designated day, count? This is something that is a tradition for our ASCE chapter and helps the local food banks in our area around Thanksgiving time.
Yes, this would be applicable.
Q51:Concrete cylinder mix, in the rules it states that "a maximum of 50% of the mass of the total cementitious material can be Portland cement." Does this mean the entire batch of concrete or of Portland cement combined with other fly ash/silica fume?
It means that Portland cement minus the aggregate cannot be more than 50% of the total mass. Portland cement is different than aggregate.
Q52: For the concrete cylinder competition, could you specify what type of fibers can be used? Can steel? Or only monosynthetic fibers by used?
Non-metallic fibers only.
Q53:WOOD DAM: For testing, the dam will be sealed in place with caulk. How long will the caulk be allowed to set to allow it to dry? 100% silicone caulk typically takes 24 hours till fully cured and around 3-12 hours before water exposure depending on the brand.
Caulk will set for 5 minutes.
Q54:WOOD DAM: Are we allowed to have more than one discharge hole?
Yes, more than one hole is permitted. However all holes must be plugged to start.
Q55:WOOD DAM: During testing, will the discharge hole be sealed with caulk, while the cat carrier is filled? If so, how will we unseal the holes?
The team members are responsible for sealing the discharge holes during filling. Sealing/unsealing the holes can be done with your fingers.
Q56:WOOD DAM: Can we have the dimension for the length of the cat carrier and the distance from the bottom of the dam to the bottom of the cat carrier?
The length of the cat carrier is 22 inches on the top and 20 inches on the bottom. Height of the carrier is 7 inches. There is a 1 inch lip. The distance from the bottom of the dam to the bottom of the cat carrier should be zero.
Q57:ENVIRONMENTAL: Did the materials list date and shipping date change to February 24th and March 6th respectively? Is the paper due February 24th now as well?
Yes, the new deadlines for all competitions have been updated. Please refer to the schedule, and the technical paper is due at the time of judging.
Q58:ENVIRONMENTAL: Do non-chemical components (pumps, beakers, etc.) need to be shipped as well or can they be brought to the competition separately?
Non-chemical components can be shipped or brought with you to the competition.
Q59:ENVIRONMENTAL: Do we have access to a vacuum station and just need to bring a connecting tube, or do we need to bring a portable vacuum pump and connecting tube?
You will need to bring a portable vacuum pump and connecting tube, no access to a vacuum is provided.
Q60:ENVIRONMENTAL: If we are using materials that were a part of a bulk order from months ago, do we need to provide the original receipt or can we screenshot what the current cost would be online?
Every effort should be made to obtain the original cost documentation for all materials.
Q61:ENVIRONMENTAL: Are lab coats and other PPE provided during the competition or do we need to bring our own?
Lab coats, gloves, and goggles will be made available during the competition. Please bring any other PPE required in the material safety data sheet for your materials. Please also provide copies of the material safety data sheets for host personnel safety.
Q62:SURVEYING: What is the approximate size of the land that we will be responsible for surveying? Are we allowed to use string and a string level? Are we allowed to use stakes?
Between 100 ft x 100 ft to 1000 ft x 1000 ft. Technically, you are not barred from using a string level for leveling. However, it is not preferred since we expect more than one group to collect data simultaneously, hence the string will not only obstruct the other groups but will also cause a tripping hazard. You should also keep in mind that though string based leveling can be a good method for checking your work, it is not a very precise surveying technique. An optical instrument, such as a level or total station is preferred for this leveling competition. Yes, but make sure they are labeled with your team name as multiple teams will be collecting data simultaneously, which could cause some confusion.
Q63:T-SHIRTS: When we were looking into the information we need for students to register individually we noticed that the shirt sizes only go up to XL and we have several students that have requested larger sizes. Do you have anything above XL available?
No, the available shirt sizes are small, medium, large and extra large only.
Q64:T-SHIRT: Can the captain and presenter be the same person?
Yes.
Q65:CONCRETE CYLINDER: 1) If registration is March 16 will this allow for the compliance evaluation 24 hours before testing on March 17 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.? 2) Is a copy of the technical report required to be submitted electronically or is it just the in person submittal upon arrival to the conference judges at the time of registration? If so, what is the due date for the electronic version? 3) Are there any past technical reports available as a reference for format and expectation? 4) As far as testing the final cylinder on March 17th, is the use of neoprene pads with metal retaining rings an option? 5) If all of the materials used in my mix were donated by our school's Concrete Canoe Team and the recycled material by a corporation, how would I go about presenting photocopies of receipts?
1) Yes. 2) Only the mix design spreadsheet is to be submitted electronically by Feb. 24, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. EST to 2017asce@fau.edu. The technical report is due at the time of registration in hard copy form handed to the judges. 3) No. 4) No, neoprene pads cannot be used. 5) Assign a proportional share of the cost to the materials by finding out the costs for larger quantities if donated, such that if the price is per ton, then calculate the price for the actual amount of material used in construction of the cylinder.
Q66:CONCRETE CYLINDER: Is concrete dye allowed in the mix design? Such as a dye from BASF called liquid concrete dye?
This concrete dye is acceptable.
Q67:ENVIRONMENTAL: It seems as though the molecular formula of methylene blue was posted incorrectly on the Environmental competition information page. The incorrectly stated molecular formula for methylene blue trihydrate (trihydrate, because of the 3 attached H2O molecules) is "C16H18CIS3N·3H2O," while the correct molecular formula is C16H18CIN3S·3H2O.
You are correct.
Q68:WOOD DAM: Does the dam sit in the opening on top of the lip, or behind the lip against the bottom of the carrier?
Behind the lip.
Q69:CONCRETE CANOE: I just wanted to confirm that the deadline for the electronic canoe design paper is Feb 24 at 11:59pm. Also, the website says the 5 hard copies will be due at assigned time, does that mean when the canoes are being displayed, at our assigned presentation time, or on the Feb 24 deadline?
Confirmed. Bring the 5 hard copies to the assigned presentation time.
Q70:SERVICE ACTIVITY: Our chapter is actively doing activities during the semester which involves helping our community, can we add all the activities to our presentation or just one? For the technical report: Is it a brief summary (one page) of our project?
Choose the most compelling activity. The essential elements of the technical report are described in detail in the rules.
Q71:ENVIRONMENTAL: In regards to material costs, does the cost get calculated from the amount that gets used in the experiment or the amount that was originally purchased?
See Q42.
Q72:WOOD DAM: If "the length of the cat carrier is 22 inches on the top and 20 inches on the bottom. Height of the carrier is 7 inches", what is the length from the opening (where the dam will be placed) to the back of the cat carrier, the length that runs perpendicular to the opening)?.
The dimension that you are asking about is 22 inches on the top and 20 inches on the bottom. That is the length from the dam opening to the back of the cat carrier. The dam opening is 12.375 inches on the bottom and 14 inches on the top. The height is 6-7 inches (1 inch lip).
Q73:ENVIRONMENTAL: For the Environmental Small Comp, will the absorbance be measured on the UV-VIS Spectrophotometer at a single wavelength or scan? And what is the wavelength or scan range?
Single wavelength will be used in the range of 600-700 nm.
Q74:ENVIRONMENTAL: 1) Do we know the sample size that will be taken after the water is filtered? Will it be the entire sample of water that was run through or just 5mL, etc., or is it unknown? 2) Are we pouring the water into the filter or is a judge in charge of that? If it is a judge then at what rate will it be poured (or will it be dumped as a lump quantity)? 3) Are we allow to agitate or intervene with our filter during the process, or once the water begins to be filtered are we not allowed to touch our filter device any longer?
1 ) The team members must pour the entire 1 liter sample through the filter, and after filtration, the sample volume (in the milliliter range) will be collected by the judges. 2) The team will pour the contaminated water into the filter during the allotted time. The judges will collect the sample and measure the absorbance on the spectrophotometer. 3) You may agitate the filter while filtering.
Q75:REGISTRATION: We have already completed the school registration and are trying to register our members for conference by filling out the individual registration form. Is there a way to register more than 10 members at once? Is there a place to indicate what member is doing what event? How do we register faculty?
The registration form can now handle up to 50 members at once. There is no place to indicate which member is doing which event since some schools have members participating in multiple events, so we have scheduled the event times accordingly to allow for this to happen. Faculty must register as individuals, same as students. If you wish to make a note appear in their registration, simply add the word “Faculty” before their name in the form.
Q76:GEOTECHNICAL: Can more than one material be used for the fill of the cube?
Yes, two or more materials can be used for filler.
Q77:GEOTECHNICAL: Is folded paper considered compressed material? And can we use more than two materials for our filler for Geotech comp?
Yes folded paper is considered a compressed material, and yes two or more materials can be used for filler.
Q78:WOOD DAM: What is the brand and model of the cat carrier being used?
That information is not available, the cat carrier has no markings on it. See additional photos of the carrier on pages 3 to 5 of the competition pdf file.
Q79:SCHEDULE: When will the small competition participants need to be registered by? We will sign them up for the conference before the deadline but I didn’t see anywhere to put who’s participating in which competition. Also, when will we know at what time to be at the competitions because I know that many of them will run all day? Is this something that we will get when we get there?
There is no place to indicate which member is doing which event since some schools have members participating in multiple events, so we have scheduled the event times accordingly to allow for this to happen. Please visit the schedule page on the website to view the general times, and after we start receiving the small competition submittals, we will have a better idea of the time windows for each participant for each event.
Q80:REGISTRATION: I have a few members who are 2XL in t-shirt size. I see in the registration for conference you do not offer that size option. Will you be special ordering for specific size requests?
Refer to Q63.
Q81:CONCRETE CYLINDER: Is using a NaOH water solution acceptable?
Yes.
Q82:LADDER GOLF: Do we need to bring a sample of the connecting bola string so that its’ weight will be deducted from the bola weight? Don’t know how you’ll get just the weight of one ball when string is embedded.
The string is part of the weight limit.
Q83:BALSA WOOD BRIDGE: What is the required minimum overall depth of the bridge?
There is no minimum depth other than the minimum 1/8 inch deck thickness.
Q84:GEOTECHNICAL LIGHTWEIGHT FILL: For newspaper or any other recyclable paper, does the 3 in. margin still apply? Can we shred the paper (like the recycling website suggests http://swa.org/192/Recycling-at-Home) and use the strands without cutting it to 3 inches?
As long as no strand is more than 3 inches long, you may use shredded paper.
Q85:CONCRETE CORN HOLE: Are we allowed to paint on top of the concrete?
Response: Yes, you are allowed to paint.
Q86:THEME: Can we use a clear spray adhesive or sealant on the theme display to help hold items in place?
Yes, you may use clear spray adhesives or sealants.
Q87:ENVIRONMENTAL: We have noticed that there is no mention in terms of the quantity of effluent required for the spectophotometer reading. Is there any minimum volume of effluent needed or stipulated for this competition?
Each team will generate one liter of treated effluent to the judges. The judges will prepare the sample for spectrophotometry from the one liter sample provided.
Q88:BALSA BRIDGE: The competition rules call for a continuous bridge deck no more than 1/8" thick; does this mean that there should be one continuous plate/sheet of wood spanning the width between the guide tracks and the length of the bridge? I interpreted the rules as requiring this as a smooth surface for the ball to roll on but some people in my group were unsure.
No, the deck does not need to be a continuous sheet of wood. The ball sits on the tracks.
Q89:ENVIRONMENTAL: 1) At what wavelength will the spectrophotometer be read at? 2) If our team is not using chemicals for our project instead we are using other materials, do we need to mail in those materials or is that only required for chemicals? 3) If we have a large amount of a chemical but would only like to mail in a small amount, are we allowed to transfer the amount we desire in an unmarked container? Or, must it be officially labeled?
1) Wavelength is between 600 and 700 nm. 2) Yes, you need to mail the materials to the conference site. 3) Yes, you can mail part of the original chemicals in another container. However, the container should be labelled clearly regarding the name of the chemical, mass, and cost. Please also submit a Material Safety Data Sheet.
Q90:GEOTECHNICAL LIGHTWEIGHT FILL: 1) Please verify that materials larger than 3 inches can be cut to size. 2) Will we be able to choose the orientation at which our cube is tested at? 3) Is there an issue with pieces of the cube breaking off during testing regarding to penalties?
1) Yes, materials larger than 3 inches must be cut down to size. 2) Teams are permitted to pick the orientation. The cube can only crush 15%. 3) Pieces breaking off should be limited.
Q91:ENVIRONMENTAL: Will a scale be provided? And if not, is it included in the cost?
A scale will be provided, and it should not be included in the cost.
Q92:BALSA WOOD BRIDGE: 1) What is the testing ball made out of? 2) Is the bridge itself to be constructed at a L/72 slope, or is that slope provided purely by the piers? 3) Is any type of Elmer's or Carpenter's brand glue acceptable for use, or is the intent of the rules that simple Elmer's white glue be used? 4) Can we model our bridge in SolidWorks, instead of AutoCAD, as long as we provide the required images attached to our paper?
1) The ball is made of brass. 2) As given in the specifications, to accommodate the L/72 slope, one abutment will be elevated 0.5" and the pier will be elevated 0.25". The supports are separate from the bridge. The bridge must have level support widths that do not exceed 0.5". (Both abutments and the pier have 0.5" bearing widths.) 3) The specifications for the glue are given with no particular reference to type of Elmer's or Carpenter's glue. Care should be taken to prevent excessive glue from assisting with the strength and stability of the bridge. The glue can only be used to connect members, joints and plates. 4) The required use of AutoCAD is not to be inferred by the term CAD in the specifications. There is no requirement on the analysis or modeling software that can be used.
Q93:ENVIRONMENTAL: In the rules, it mentions that equipment provided for this competition will be equivalent to what would be found in a standard environmental chemistry laboratory. I would assume this would include beakers. However, in the Q&A site, it mentions that only the pH meter and the UV-Vis spectrophotometer will be provided, and everything else each school needs to provide. So which one is right? Will beakers be included?
Bring your own beakers.
Q94:GEOTECHNICAL LIGHTWEIGHT FILL: Can Styrofoam, such as cups and plates, be used in fill material?
Yes, Styrofoam is permissible.
Q95:GEOTECHNICAL LIGHTWEIGHT FILL: 1) Does the restriction of 3" include diagonally? Ex: height 2 3/4" diameter 2 1/2" but diagonal would be 3 23/32", and 2) Is duck tape allowed to connect materials?
1) The 3 inches restriction refers to the measurement in one direction, not diagonal. 2) Duct tape is allowed for connecting materials.
Q96: A student was in charge of a competition and graduated in December. Is he still allowed to be a part of the competition team and/or help present?
No, participants must be current students not already graduated.
Q97:BALSA WOOD BRIDGE: The guide tracks have to be .5" x .5" x 36". Are we allowed to make the guide tracks two sections that are .5" x .5" x 18" and have them meet at the center of the bridge?
Yes, this is allowed.
Q98:ENVIRONMENTAL: With regard to the environmental contest, our materials were gathered from a water plant. They were a very small part of a larger amount of material we have the price from the water plant for the material via email. Can we use this email in lieu of a receipt since the objective is to determine the cost of the filter?
Yes, this is sufficient for verifying the cost.
Q99:GEOTECHNICAL FILL: On the Q&A, it says that materials have to be 3" in its natural state; however there aren't any bottles that are 3" diameter and 3" height do that doesn't make much sense and it also does not state that we cannot cut materials so they fit the 3" criteria. So we are using Gatorade bottles which are 3" in diameter and we are cutting the bottles so that the height is less than 3" and we need to make sure that's okay because we have already built it.
Teams are permitted to cut materials to fit the dimensional restrictions.
Q100:LADDER GOLF: As long as the rungs are 1" diameter, unpainted, and evenly spaced, can the frame be made of wood and painted?
It should be made of 1" PVC.
Q101:WOOD DAM: Are the 14 inches at the top from the outer edge of the carrier itself or from the inside of the actual opening?
The 14 inch dimension is measured from inside the cat carrier, not the opening.
Q102:WOOD DAM: We are confused regarding the placement of the dam. Will it be placed against the outer part of the opening (using the 1 inch lip at the bottom) or be placed inside of the opening (on top of the 1-inch lip)?
The dam shall be placed inside the opening, resting on the bottom of the carrier.
Q103:CONCRETE CORNHOLE: Can tile be inlaid on small part of surface?
No.
Q104:SERVICE COMPETITION: Several questions: 1) Is the technical report the same as the paper? 2) In the documents we should write which entity would benefit if we win? 3) Do the description of the photos count for the limit of words?
1) Yes, there is only a technical report (any mention of technical “paper” is a reference to the technical report). 2) Yes, you should mention the identity of the beneficiary in the technical report. 3) No, the photo captions do not count against the word limit.
Q105:BALSA WOOD BRIDGE: I have a question regarding the slope of the bridge: In the objective section of the rules and regulations, it states that the slope will be accommodated by having one abutment and the mid-pier set at different heights. In terms of the design of the supports, would it be necessary to design the supports to the required slope or can they be set at a singular level?
The abutments and pier with their specified dimensions and heights are separate from the bridge and will be provided by FAU as the loading platform. The bridge will be placed flat on each 0.5” width support by the team captain prior to testing.
Q106:ENVIRONMENTAL: I think of a hot plate as a normal chemistry lab item. I assume by your reference to the question 46 that it is not provided and I must bring it. Also since you say the school has to bring our own glassware, do we need to bring our own beakers and stirring rods? to me those are the even more regular chemistry items that would be provided in a normal chemistry lab setting. What do you provide if we need to bring those things?
You should assume that any specialty item including the appropriate size beaker or glass stirring rod is not available in the lab unless you bring it with you.
Q107:ENVIRONMENTAL: The rules indicate that "The materials for this competition must NOT be hazardous, by MSDS standards, to the environment or to humans.". In case of using a recycled material for filtration which does not have an MSDS, can it still be used?
If the material is hazardous, it will not be permitted. If no MSDS is available, then you will have to provide a chemical analysis to determine if the substance is hazardous.
Q108:SURVEYING: Will it be marked for us, or will it not be allowed in general?
The flags are not necessary as all grid points of recommended square size will be marked on the ground.
Q109:WOOD DAM: 1) Can more than 5 gallons of water be added to carrier? 2) What is the judging criteria on the amount of water remaining after it drains, or after the five minutes is up? What happens if only one gallon drains? 3) Is the dam sitting within the opening of the carrier, or flush against it? If it’s flush, what about the lip at the bottom of the carrier?
1) Yes. 2) Time stops when the water stops, not by volume. 3) Flush against the opening. The lip remains. There will be water above the 5 gallons in the carrier.
Q110:PROFESSIONAL PAPER: Does the technical paper need to have references?
To avoid plagiarism, you must give credit when credit is due.
Q111:PROFESSIONAL PAPER: Does the 2000 word limit include the cover letter and works cited page? I would expect that it does not, but I just wanted to confirm before submitting my entry.
Questions related to the Daniel W. Mead Prize for students should be directed to ASCE Student Services at student@asce.org.
Q112:CORNHOLE: Is Sika Latex R (ASTM 1438) admixture allowed to be used in the Corn Hole board mix?
No.
Q113:SERVICE: 1) Is the technical report the same as the paper? 2) In the documents we should write which entity would benefit if we win? 3) Do the description of the photos count for the limit of words?
1) Yes. 2) Yes. 3) No, captions do not count against the word count.
Q114:ENVIRONMENTAL: I was curious if it is okay to ship material that we currently own or if the product we choose has to be shipped directly from a distributor (i.e. bought and shipped directly to FAU).
This is acceptable only if all items are being shipped directly, otherwise, please ship all items together in one box per school.
Q115:GEOTECHNICAL LIGHTWEIGHT FILL: In reference to Q95: Is duct tape allowed to connect materials?
Since duct tape is considered a binding agent, does the 3in limitation apply to duct tape? Can we use one continuous piece of duct tape?
Duct tape is permissible but the 3 inch limitation still applies.
Q116:WOOD DAM: If there is a 1 inch lip, that means significant water will remain in the cat carrier. Will this be approximately 1 gallon of water? If not, more or less how much will it be?
Between 1.0 - 1.5 gallons of water remain in the bottom lip of the cat carrier.
Q117:LADDER GOLF: Is it acceptable to tie a knot in the bola string?
No.
Q118:SERVICE: In the instructions it says that the paper should be between 500 to 750 words. What information will be counted for the word limit? Is there any penalty for exceeding?
Text only for the word limit. Penalty is disqualification.
Q119:TRAFFIC: What traffic simulation software will be used in the traffic competition?
That information cannot be disclosed prior to the competition.
Q120:FRISBEE: The rules currently allow for two frisbees to be brought, although only one will be used. Must both frisbees be painted in order to receive points in the aesthetics portion of the score?
Only the one used for the competition must be painted.
Q121:CORNHOLE: Can tile be inlaid on small part of surface?
No.
Q122:ENVIRONMENTAL: I am wondering how strict the policy of shipping out materials for the environmental competition today, March 6 is. We are having difficulty securing our materials as there has been some discrepancies between the two universities on our ordering process. If we can 100% guarantee (whether it be our overnighting the chemicals or what have you) that the chemicals arrive at a date prior enough to the competition date so that you all are able to examine them, is that okay? If so, please let me know what date the chemicals must absolutely be there by.
The deadline date is firm. No late deliveries.
Q123:PROFESSIONAL PAPER: Do we have to bring a Powerpoint file on a jump drive?
Participants have access to Powerpoint for a maximum of 5 slides and 5 minutes for the presentation. Powerpoint or slides of any kind are not required.
Q124:General Question: Should we bring resumes and dress up nice for the job fair and banquet?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your resume and wear business formal attire for the career fair and formal sit-down awards banquet with table service.
Q125:General Question: Do you have any plan B for foul weather?
Yes, we have coordinated with FAU facilities for shelter from rain and lightning if necessary.
Q126:General Question: Will meals be provided for us?
Lunch on Friday at the Atlantic Dining Hall and Saturday at the Park will be provided for participants displaying their conference badge. Participants will be allowed entry to the awards banquet at the convention center with their badge and dinner ticket. All other meals are on your own.
Q127:General Question: When will [insert my event here] start because I am planning to be in multiple events on the same day?
Stay tuned there will be a conference app for the latest updates on the exact times to report for your event. Every effort possible has been taken to try to avoid double booking, but we cannot guarantee that the planned start time and the actual start time for your individual event will be free from delays due to unforeseen circumstances.
