Automated Systems Contest
Event Coordinator: Dr. Sharon Brusic
Millersville University
sharon.brusic@millersville.edu
DESCRIPTION:
The purpose of the Automated Systems Design (ASD) challenge is to provide a means for teams of TECA members to demonstrate their ability to analyze a typical automated system problem, then design and apply a solution to the problem. Automated Systems challenges require electronics as part of the solution, but like real‐world automated systems also typically require the integration of mechanical functionality.
TEAM:
Each team will be composed of 3 to 5 students who are members in good standing of a TECA affiliated chapter. The team may not be composed of over 40% graduate students. Each team should identify one team member as the team leader.
PROCEDURES:
1. Members of each team must be present at the designated time and location for the start of the contest.
2. Each team will receive contest details, supplies, and related materials necessary for the problem to be solved. Any proposed solution to the problem must be created using only the materials provided and the items that teams are allowed to bring to the event.
3. Each team will design and apply a solution to the problem by:
a. Brainstorming to develop a list of possible solution designs.
b. Identifying the best solution to the problem.
c. Configuring an automated device to solve the problem.
d. Testing/evaluating the automated device to solve the problem.
e. Demonstrating the solution to the problem.
4. Each team will work in an assigned area. All work must be done in the assigned area with materials provided.
5. Appropriate safety procedures must be followed during the contest. Safety glasses are required.
6. Forms for sketches and procedures will be provided and will be turned in for evaluation at the end of the contest.
7. The solution for the Automated Systems Design problem must be completed and tested within the time announced for the activity.
8. Teams are responsible for cleaning up their area at the end of the contest.
EVALUATION:
Judges will evaluate:
- the problem‐solving process used;
- accuracy of the completed automatic system;
- related sketches, schematics, and forms;
- creativity and aesthetics of the design and fabrication; and
- safety.
MATERIALS:
All required materials/electrical components are provided by the contest coordinator.
Teams are expected to bring the following:
- General tools/materials needed for constructing models (scissors, box cutting knives,
- X-acto® knives, hot glue gun, small screwdrivers, pliers, rulers, hammers, abrasive paper, etc.).
- General electrical tools (various types of wire, soldering iron, solder, flux, wire cutters/strippers, electrical tape, IC pullers, etc.).
- Graphic tools/materials for improving aesthetic appearance of models (markers, colored pencils, color paper, etc.).
- A working breadboard, which may be used with any chips or components supplied for the competition.
- Any useful reference materials for controls/circuits (analog or digital) including books, notes, etc.
