Our first priority was to determine how easy it was to pick up the notes from the ground.  Simply loading a hex rod with compliant wheels proved the concept.  This photo is our third version.  The sides for version 2 were laser cut and this version they were cut on the CNC. We found the two roller approach was needed but because the note was fairly squishable it worked very effectively for picking up.

One of our key goals with prototyping is rapid iteration.  We want to quickly test various theories and hone in on design ideas that will be highly effective.  Our laser cutter is our most important tool for rapid prototyping.  We also keep a stock of 80-20 aluminum allowing us to quickly build structures so we can determine effective dimensions.  While game elements were constructed we simply put tape on a wall to determine if we were approaching the correct height for shooting.

Our trap mechanism is a great example of our rapid prototyping process.  We've completed at least 10 iterations.  Each version was cut on the laser cutter and knowledge from tests were used to update the next iteration.  For example the first iteration dug into stage so bearing mounts were added for subsequent versions.

The Open alliance and robot in 3 days are amazing resources that help us determine critical dimensions and concepts.  We are working to improve our documentation process as we would like to contribute in the future.