PARTICIPATION POINTS, DEVICES, AND IMPOUNDS

1. The purpose of an impound is to make certain the device in question meets all the size specifications and not to create an advantage for a team. The device impounded must be in a completed state with the exception of slight modifications necessary for the distances.
2. Devices impounded may not be touched again by a team until they are to begin their turn in the event. Once a device is impounded, it will not be released either the end of the entire event or at the completion of a teams performance (only at state)
3. Devices not present at the end of the impound will be considered as a team not competing. If a team brings a device to an event after impound, they may test the device, but they will receive NO participation point.
4. A device may be brought to the impound by someone other than a member of the device event. Such a situation is the ONLY time an adult will be allowed any where the actual competition field.
5. In order to receive participation points, the device must meet the minimum rule requirements:
   1. robots must demonstrate that they are being controlled; they may not simply be a device placed on the field.
   2. Instruments must be as complete as possible at the arrival of a team.  The attempt to put strings on an instrument or assemble other parts after arrival does not constitute a completed device.
   3. At the impound, vehicles must be capable of the minimum movement. Merely placing a vehicle on the field does not constitute a vehicle. 
   4. Flying instruments must be capable of at least getting off the ground. 
6. In summary, the device must demonstrate that it is something that students have spent some time with.

SCORING AND PLACES

1. The national rules specifically state that there should be no ties, either in a given event or in designated places.
2. Event supervisors use a variety of criteria for breaking ties. Some of these criteria are stated in the rules. In written events, the tie breakers involve questions that are usually indicated as tie breakers. These questions may be part of the actual exam or specific tie breaker questions. Most device events specify the criteria that are to be used for breaking ties.
3. In determining overall places in the event of a tie in total points, the place is determined first by the number of god medals won. If still a tie, the number of silver medals won etc.