University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Department of Industrial Studies
Technology Challenge
April 3, 2008

Trebuchet
Competition

Competition Guidelines:

  1. Group must bring a trebuchet--in working order--to compete in competition.
  2. All members of group must submit a "Hold-Harmless Form" signed by parent or guardian, and on file prior to competition.
  3. The base and all mechanical components--excluding sling--must fit & operate completely within a 6 ft. x 6 ft. x 6 ft. cube.
  4. Trebuchet must incorporate a safety device/locking mechanism which locks arm & precludes misfire during loading.
  5. Trebuchet must have a remote firing mechanism/trigger; a minimum of 5 feet must separate firing official from trebuchet during firing.
  6. Trebuchet must be designed to propel a softball-sized water balloon, weighing approximately 1.053 lbs (477.63 g.) as far as possible.
  7. Balloons will be supplied by UWP--
  8. The arm must be made primarily of wood. Metal may be used ONLY as reinforcement and/or axles.
  9. The best three out of four throws will be counted. Every throw will be measured for distance.
  10. Teams are allowed ONLY one misfire per throw.
  11. The order of throwing shall be determined by drawing immediatley prior to competition.
B. Scoring.
Winners will be determined according to the following:
  1. Best presentation.
  2. Greatest distance (composite of 3 throws)
  3. Greatest distance (single throw)
  4. Overall winner (Best presentation AND total distance)
  5. Tie Breaker-Team with the single longest throw

All participants must complete, sign, have parents sign "Hold-Harmless
forms and submit prior to participating in Technology Challenge 2008.
Participants must bring/wear safety glasses during competition.

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E-mail inquiries, contact Dr. Steck