A LEGO model of the ASCI whitewater course will be revealed during the Deep Creek 2014 Whitewater Competition from September 18-21, 2014. The primary purpose of the approximately 3 foot by 4 foot model is to demonstrate how water is recirculated through the ASCI course as well as other features such as the conveyer. Blue beads approximately 17mm in diameter are used to simulate water in the model of the course. At any one time, the model "circulates" approximately one hundred beads throughout its course. The model is constructed entirely of LEGO elements (with the exception of the beads) and will be on display during the competition in the event's Adventure Exposition tent hosted by the Adventuresports Institute and the Center for Adventure & Experiential Learning at the World Championships. The LEGO model will be open to the public beginning September 18th and ending on September 21st from 10am-3pm daily. Garrett County Public High School's FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 1629 took the lead on construction of the model in cooperation with GEARS (Garrett Engineering and Robotics Society) located in Accident, Maryland.
Construction of the model started last spring and features are being continually added. In addition to the working "pumps" that circulate the beads (water) along the course, the model represents the basic layout of the course and features such as the conveyer, bridge, and some of the buildings surrounding the course. New features will be added throughout the Deep Creek 2014 event.
"Technic" LEGO elements are primarily used in the construction of the course built up from six 48 x 48 stud building plates. The course is elevated by a series of "stilts" that are used to provide a steep enough grade (or slope) so that the balls flow along the course via gravity. LEGO Power Functions motors and controllers are used for the animated features of the course... to make things move.
The course model features two "pumps" which lift beads (representing water) from the reservoir up to the staging area and then down through the course until the beads return along to the reservoir. The two pumps are independently powered so that either pump can be operational without the other being on. Motor speeds which power the pumps can also be controlled variably.
