The Ornithopter body must be entirely built by the competitors. Use of Lego parts or any other readymade parts is not allowed. However, electrical devices such as batteries, servos, motors, and readymade rods, clutch wires etc may be used. Also, readymade remote control assemblies may be used.
The Ornithopter cannot use any mechanism other than the wing flapping to propel itself. No rotors, fans etc are allowed even as assisting mechanisms. Entire power for the flight so must come from the wings. However to lift off from the ground, it can be assisted by a propeller and/or wheels; or can be launched manually.
Once in air, the number of maneuvers available to the Ornithopter (pitch/roll/yaw) is to be decided by the participants.
There is a large scope for innovative extras like making the machine hover in air, or dive or perch on an object. Although these are not necessary for completing the challenge, they will give the participants additional credit.
The participants have to successfully demonstrate their Ornithopter at Techfest 2008 to be eligible for the prize.
The judges will subjectively evaluate the Ornithopter based on these clauses and determine whether the participant has successfully completed the Golden Challenge.
The organizers reserve the rights to change any or all of the above rules as they deem fit. Change in rules, if any will be highlighted on the website and notified to the registered participants.
To obtain accommodation, the participants will have to send abstracts based on following guidelines. Teams will be shortlisted for accommodation on the basis of these abstracts. Please note that the shortlisting is only for accommodation, you are still eligible to participate even if you are not shortlisted for accommodation.
Please make a ZIP file of the portfolio containing the .doc/ .pdf and .JPG files. Use your registration number to name the ZIP file and send it to gc[at]techfest[dot]org
The last date for submission of abstracts is 15th December 2007.
The Body Design: Description of the body design of the machine including dimensions and materials used. Use of AutoCAD designs is encouraged.
Wing Motion Profile: Description of the wing motion profile including the type of actuators and mechanisms used to generate the profile. Use of matlab simulation of the profile is encouraged. Note that the wing motion profile here refers to something similar to the 'quick return' motion of the wing which has to be implemented.
Take off mechanism: How the ornithopter obtains the initial lift (using manual launch/ using rotary propellers)
Degrees of freedom: A brief description of the degrees of freedom implemented, including how each degree is introduced. For example, if the ornithopter can pitch, explain how controlled pitching is obtained using a remote control.
PHOTOS of your machine in current state, in JPG format. Note that even photos of incomplete machine can be attached.