Metal (more rigid than plastic, offers similar level of friction).
Plastic (flimsy, very low level of friction).
In order to have the best surface, you want any material that is smooth enough to not damage your wheels but has enough to friction to not let them slip. The surface of your ramp must provide enough traction to avoid wheel slippage without being so tacky that the wheels stick to the ramp and provide drag. It is also possible to have multiple starting positions on a static ramp, which allows for the convenience of an adjustable ramp without the difficulties. Also available is the system that is used on pool chairs, although it may be more complex to build. One way to do this is by hinging your ramp at the front end (the area that touches the floor) and using supports of various heights to raise the back end, resulting in different slopes. Although it is not necessary, some teams may find it beneficial to construct an adjustable ramp. Alignment tools may be used to align the vehicle on the ramp, and the ramp on the floor, but must be removed before the run if on the track.Ī ramp is used to convert the gravitational potential energy of the vehicle into forward motion. Using dry-clothed swiffers are common in competitive competitions. Often times, participants clean and measure the track. Participants are given 10 minutes to complete up to 3 runs, as well as a variety of adjustments to the vehicle and ramp. As of the 20 rules of the event, the vehicle does not need to curve around a bucket or cans. Timing lines are placed at the 0.5 meter and 8.5 meter lines, to count towards the time portion of the score. The start point consists of a piece of tape, 2.5 cm wide, and extending 50 cm to either side of the start point. The target distance is announced by the event supervisor after impound period is over. The distance will be in 0.5 meter increments for regionals, 0.25 meter increments for states, and 0.05 meter increments for nationals. Event supervisors will designate a distance between 9-12 meters as the target distance, or target point.