Log Books for Building Events

The 2014-2015 Science Olympiad Season have begun, and it is time to share some more experiences with you. 

I recently received a question about log books and what the format should be.  Here was my response:

I think the information needed in a log book will be specific to the event.
Usually there is some indication of what to include in the event rules. I
do not know of any specific format that must be used, so long as it includes
the relevant information.

I looked through past event coaching guidelines for Wright Stuff, and below
are the items to include in a flight log. I imagine you could create a
table with column headings for each parameter, and for each launch, the
students would record this information. Then this table would be submitted
to the judges during impound.

* 6 parameters for 10 previous flights prior to competition

* 3 required parameters

* Motor size before windup

* Winds on the motor at launch

* Flight time

* 3 Additional parameter examples

* Turns remaining at landing

* Estimated peak flight height

* Estimated flight path diameter

* Torque at launch


One side note regarding any log books or graphs that are turned in during
impound: Always make several copies. One copy can be turned in to the
judges, one copy can stay in their binder (if allowed during competition)
and one can be used for the next competition. Judges do not always give
back the log book or graphs, or they are misplaced.


I hope this helps. Good luck.



Lucy