Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't see an answer to a question here, please submit your question to ewilkening1@arizona.edu
Highlights of previous competitions
ROV Demonstration
All teams must pass the Safety Inspection (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM only) and provide their safety inspection card to the judge at their first pool trial.
Teams will have 2 trials at the pool to demonstrate Tasks 1- 3.
The highest of the 2 scores will be included the team's total score.
Each team will be assigned their pool times.
The two trials will not be consecutive times.
The team has 15 minutes total:
3 minutes to set up. This starts at the assigned pool time, so don't be late.
12 minutes of pool time. This includes demonstrating Tasks 1-3 (including graphing and eDNA time on the pool deck)
Each team is only allowed up to 4 members on the pool deck at a time.
Graph paper and pencils will be provided for Task 3.
Coaches and Spectators are only allowed on the sides of the pool, not in the competition area.
How many members can a team have?
Teams can range from 2-6 members. Only 4 members are allowed on the pool deck during the ROV demonstration part of the competition.
How deep is the pool?
The ROVs will be working in a 4 foot pool.
Do we need to provide a power supply?
Teams will be using power supplies provided by the competition. All ROVs must have a powerpole connector.
What happens if our ROV blows a fuse?
Teams will be provided with one additional fuse. If that fails, then the pool trial is over. If teams can correct the problem before the 2nd trial, they will be allowed in the pool again.
Do we need to perform the tasks in order?
Refer to the scoring sheet and prop demonstration video. Some of the subtasks need to be performed in order. Example in Task 3, the float needs to be recovered before the data can be graphed.
Can I carry more than 1 prop down at a time?
Yes you can. In Task 2.2 you cannot carry the syringe down inside of the tent, they need to be in separate places on the ROV, or separate trips with the ROV.
What tasks/props are different in the AZ Competition?
In the prop demonstration video from MATE there are a few differences in Arizona.
In Task 1.1 there is no physical floating solar panel. There are 2 separate props for the solar system: A mooring that is attached to velcro on the bottom of the pool, and the power line connector that is to be placed in the power port once the cover is opened on the bottom of the pool.
In Task 1.2 the biofouling is attached to pipe underwater on the wind turbines, not rope.
In Task 2.4 the Dace fry are larger than shown in the video.
In Task 2.5 the buoy prop does not contain any rope. It is just the PVC structure.
In Task 2.5 there is no heavy container and lift bag to employ.
Are spectators allowed at the competition?
Yes, spectators can watch the ROV demonstration from the side of the pool. Spectators are not allowed in the competition area on the west side of the pool, nor at the engineering presentations.