Solar Power Challenge                                Author Kieron McGeever             Last update: 21/11/2007 21:11:21

Train Regulations

1. The maximum length of the engine shall be such that it can go round a standard curve of 600 mm radius.

2. The maximum width of the train shall be compatible with running on “G” gauge scale track.

3. The train must be fitted with standard train wheels (plastic ones provided or metal ones obtained separately) and be able to cope with a standard 600mm radius curve.

4. Only the solar cells can be used to power the vehicle and only one motor. A maximum of 4 solar cells are allowed per engine.

5. The solar cells can be mounted on the engine or separately by the side of the track and power the engine in the usual way through the track.

6. The engine can use any type of suitable gear box.

7. No commercially produced engine chassis’s are allowed and all engines must be constructed by the contestants who enter them.

8. No batteries are allowed but capacitors may be used in the electrical circuit.

9. The solar cells and motors must be fitted to the vehicle in such away as not to be a danger to the operator or other contestants and the solar cells must not be able to fall off.

10. All races will be run on the recognised track which will be oval in shape and orientated North to South.

11. The winner will be the engine deemed by the judges to have covered one circuit of the course in the shortest time whilst pulling a truck loaded with a half kilogramme weight and to have adhered to the rules. In the event of a tie the tying vehicles will take part in a best of three circuits of the track.

12. In the event of any dispute the decision of the senior judge is final and the decision will be based on fairness and guiding principles of friendly competition.