Challenge Trials

Challenge Test Trials are special days, where teams test their solutions (at whatever stage the team is) on the official test rig. This is also an opportunity for teams to examine the test rig to get ideas about how to design a solution. Teams can also observe the approaches of other teams to gain inspiration!

Note: The most successful teams attend most if not all the trials! Go to as many trials as you can, even before you have a working prototype!

Dates for 2004

March 13, 20, 27
April 3, 10, 17
Time: 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Last Trial: April 20
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Location for all challenge trials - The Tech Museum of Innovation, Lower Level Atrium

What should the team expect at the Challenge Test Trials?

  • A Tech staff member will help to "sign up" teams for time on the test rig. (~10 minutes, depending on the number of teams present)
  • Teams may sign-up for multiple turns on the test rig once the team has completed its initial turn.
  • You can stay for parts of all of the challenge test trials.

Note: The last day of the challenge test trials is the busiest one. Expect that you will only have one turn on the test rig on this day! Plan ahead to make sure that you can come to earlier test trials.

Other than student teams, who attends the trials?

  • Volunteer engineers - they can help you to find answers to your questions!
  • Tech Museum staff - we'll be around to answer questions about the competition, outreach, and anything else related to Tech Challenge.

Why should the team go to the Challenge Test Trials?

  • To test a specific element of your design
  • To examine the official test rig and consult with volunteer engineers
  • To find inspiration
  • To have a rehearsal "performance test" for The Big Day
  • To use the trials as a way to help with your project plan

Note: The more you test your invention, the greater your success rate in completing the challenge!

How can the team get the most out of the Challenge Test Trials?

  • Make a list of questions that the team wants answered about the test rig, how the device will operate etc.
  • Ask your advisor to help you with arranging transportation to The Tech.
  • Determine team roles for the device test (Who will operate the device? Who will record the team’s observations? Who will carry the toolbox? Can everyone go to the trials etc.)

What should the team bring?

  • Design journal - to jot down notes from your device test
  • Toolbox - to fix your project on the spot
  • Camera - to take a snapshot of your test or an interesting idea to include in your solution
  • Pen/pencil - to help you record your ideas!