1. Purpose

The competition aims to inspire and challenge participants through a hands-on, problem-solving experience that empowers essential STEM skills and encourages creative innovation. By engaging with mechanical design challenges, the competition contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Specifically, the competition is designed to:

• Develop Mechanical Engineering and Physics Skills: By constructing functional bows and arrows from raw materials, participants gain practical experience in potential energy, elasticity, and structural tension. They will learn to optimize their designs for draw weight, stability, and flight accuracy.

• Innovative Problem Solving: The challenge of creating a reliable projectile launcher from everyday items encourages participants to think critically. They must analyze material limits, plan their build for durability, and troubleshoot flight paths to hit a target consistently.

• Cultivate a Passion for STEM: Building and competing with DIY bows offers an exciting way to connect theoretical physics with tangible results. This focus on resourcefulness promotes SDG 12 by encouraging participants to utilize recycled materials and explore the potential of low-cost components to create high-performance tools.

• Empower Future Problem Solvers: Participants will gain the confidence to tackle complex mechanical challenges, learning to persevere through failed prototypes and adapt their designs—skills essential for success in any technical field.

2. Task/Mission

Embrace the thrill of on-the-spot innovation! You will be provided with a "treasure trove" of raw materials—from PVC and wood to elastic bands and recycled plastics—and tasked with building a competition-grade bow and arrows on-site.

This isn't just about building; it’s about rapid prototyping, testing, and calibration. You must design, build, and refine the ultimate projectile system to seize victory! Participants must figure out how to create a consistent firing mechanism and stable arrows to ensure every shot counts.

Competition Field

• Firing Range: 5 to 10 meters (depending on category).

• Target Size: Standard 60cm diameter archery target.

Equipment Requirements

• The bow must be powered solely by the elasticity of the materials provided (mechanical energy).

• No pre-made/commercial bow limbs or risers are permitted.

• Arrows must be handcrafted on-site and include safety tips as regulated by the committee.

• The bow must be hand-drawn and hand-released; no mechanical triggers or "crossbow" style stocks are allowed.

4. State Competition Regulations

• Participants will submit a video showcasing the performance and accuracy of their DIY bow.

  • Evaluation: The primary criterion is the Total Accuracy Score from a set of 5 arrows.

  • Verification: A physical timer or a continuous, unedited shot must be visible to ensure the run is authentic.

  • Submission: One video showcasing the participant’s best consistent round.

    
    

• National Competition Regulations

• The Build Phase: Participants are permitted to practice beforehand, but no pre-built components may be brought into the venue. All bows must be constructed from scratch during the 1-hour construction period using only provided materials.

• Testing: Participants may perform test shots and "tune" their bows during the construction period.

• Lockdown: Once the hour ends, all bows must be placed in the designated "Armory" area until the participant is called to shoot.

Scoring & Tie-Breakers

• Accuracy (Primary): Points are awarded based on where the arrow strikes the target (e.g., 10 for Bullseye, 8 for inner ring, etc.).

• Total Time (Secondary): In "Speed Round" formats, the time taken to fire 5 arrows may be used.

• Tie-breaker (Creativity of Design): In the case of a tie in points, the judges will award the win to the participant with the most innovative use of materials and structural elegance.

Prohibited Items & Safety

• No External Materials: Only items provided by the committee (e.g., specific tape, string, or PVC) may be used.

• Safety First: Any bow deemed "unstable" or "dangerous to the user" by the safety officer will be disqualified.

• No Intentional Damage: Participants are strictly prohibited from interfering with other participants' equipment.