Update — that was pretty epic:
Hebocon is a contest that pits tiny, crappy robots against one another in miniature sumo battles. Whichever crappy robot falls over or exits the ring first, loses. But the important thing is, the robots must be crappy.
PS1 will be hosting its first-ever micro-Hebocon this Saturday, October 20. A micro-Hebocon is like a regular Hebocon, but even crappier: all robots will be powered by a wind-up motor that provides about four seconds of energy.
PS1 is providing the motors free of charge. Also beer, free of charge. Bring whatever other parts you desire, or see what is available in the micro-junkyard of odd robot parts that PS1 will make available at the event.
The micro-junkyard will include an Iron Chef-style surprise ingredient. Probably not octopus, and probably not uranium…but maybe!
Worried you won’t be able to create a functioning robot? No worries, there is also an aesthetics award to be given out to the fanciest robot on the strip.
The event takes place from 7pm to 10pm, this Saturday, October 20. 21 and over only, please. No entrance fee, but please email Kathryn Born if you plan to participate. kathryn.born@pumpingstationone.org
Oh, one other thing: if you do happen to be a skilled roboticist, don’t despair! Just challenge yourself by adding a handicap:
- Try combinations that you would never do at work, like making a propeller with dried squid rather than plastic or metal;
- Avoid technology that you’re familiar with. Do not use a soldering iron, or other tools;
- Make it with your left hand (if you are right-handed);
- Make it with your feet;
- Leave the most important part to a 5-year-old child to make it for you.
