Precision Build

Master applied mathematics and electronics to build precision instruments

Explore Events

Skills & Knowledge Required

Applied Mathematics

Advanced calculations, statistical analysis, and mathematical modeling for precision optimization

Electronics & Programming

Circuit design, sensor integration, and microcontroller programming

Physics Principles

Understanding of mechanics, electromagnetism, and energy systems

Data Analysis

Statistical methods, error analysis, and performance optimization techniques

Precision Build Events

Bungee Drop

Description: Design one elastic cord to conduct two separate drops at given heights and attempt to get a drop mass as close as possible to, but without touching, a landing surface.

Goal: Precise landing without touching
Mechanism: Elastic cord physics
Team Size: 2 members

Key Skills:

  • Calibrating piecewise spring constants; uncertainty analysis
  • Energy/damping models; overshoot control and safety factors
  • Regression for height vs extension prediction

Core Topics:

  • Hooke's law beyond linear regime; series/parallel segments
  • Conservation of energy with damping and terminal velocity

Practice Plan:

  • Build calibration tables across heights; multiple trials per point
  • Create quick-reference drop charts for competition day

Recommended Tools:

  • Meter stick/tape, phone video for measurement, spreadsheet
Event Manager: TBD

Hovercraft

Description: Test knowledge of classical mechanics and construct a self-propelled air-levitated vehicle that moves down a track.

Goal: Optimal speed and control
Mechanism: Air cushion propulsion
Team Size: 2 members

Key Skills:

  • Air cushion design and leakage control
  • Lift vs thrust balance; mass distribution and stability
  • Repeatable timing and alignment on track

Core Topics:

  • Newtonian mechanics, drag forces, power/energy relations
  • Skirt geometry/materials, fan characteristics

Practice Plan:

  • Timed runs with standardized starts; sensitivity testing
  • Maintain run logs: voltage, mass, surface, results
Event Manager: TBD

Electric Vehicle

Description: Design, build, and test one vehicle that uses electrical energy as its sole means of propulsion to travel quickly and stop close to a Target Point.

Goal: Speed and precision stopping
Power: Electrical energy only
Team Size: 2 members

Key Skills:

  • Motor gearing and wheel sizing; traction management
  • Closed-loop control for stopping (mechanical/electronic)
  • Battery state management and repeatability

Core Topics:

  • Ohm/Kirchhoff laws, motor curves, kinematics

Practice Plan:

  • Distance vs time calibration under different battery states
  • Surface variation tests; maintain run logs with conditions

Recommended Tools:

  • Multimeter, calipers, tachometer/encoder, tape measure
Event Manager: TBD

Robot Tour

Description: Design, build, program and test one Robotic Vehicle to navigate a track to reach a target at a set amount of time as accurately and efficiently as possible.

Goal: Precise navigation and timing
Method: Autonomous programming
Team Size: 2 members

Key Skills:

  • Embedded programming, sensor integration, PID/feedback control
  • Odometry and path planning; robust drivetrain design
  • Parameter tuning for different surfaces/targets

Core Topics:

  • Dead reckoning vs sensor-based navigation, timing and latency

Practice Plan:

  • Segment course into checkpoints; test multiple target times
  • Record tuning parameters per surface and repeat
Event Manager: TBD

Team Leadership

Subject Directors

Build directors have already been chosen and will act as Subject Directors across the build subjects.

Responsibilities:

  • Teaching mathematical modeling techniques
  • Developing electronic systems expertise
  • Mentoring precision engineering skills
  • Coordinating technical practice sessions

Event Managers

Each event has exactly 1 Event Manager responsible for organizational and communicative tasks.

Responsibilities:

  • Getting to know members on a personal level
  • Creating meeting activities and competitions
  • Facilitating learning and practice
  • Organizing technical resources and materials