The JoustBots

  1. JoustBots must be self-powered. They may use any form of energy deemed to be safe and non-destructive by the judges, including stored electrical power, springs, rubber-bands, counterweights, and flywheels. They may not use any thermal sources, including combustible fuels, or any form of jet or rocket propulsion, including compressed air or streams of water.
  2. JoustBots must fit within a 1ft x 1ft x 1ft cube at the beginning of the contest, and cannot exceed 2lbs in weight. Once the contest begins, a JoustBot may assume any shape or configuration.
  3. If a JoustBot changes shape or size, or separates into multiple pieces, all pieces must cross the finish line. The JoustBot will be considered finished when the last bit of the last piece crosses the line.
  4. JoustBots must be entirely self-controlled. They may utilize mechanical, electrical, or computer control systems, but may not make use of remote controls or wired tethers.
  5. JoustBots can use broad surfaces to push against, lift, or shove their opponents. A JoustBot may not use any implements designed to intentionally damage its opponent, including puncturing rams, spikes, saws, or wrecking balls. Nets or barriers can be used, but will be considered to be part of the JoustBot, and must cross the finish line to qualify for a complete finish.
  6. The same JoustBot must be used by a team for all rounds of the contest. The JoustBot can be configured differently for different rounds, and any damage can be repaired in between rounds.