Mouse Trap Vehicle C - 2010

[Steve Schultz]

Post questions.

[alecfxl]

The rules say the mousetraps can't be modified. A recommendation by someone involved with Nationals was to harness more energy from the springs by setting the mousetrap so that the clamp is set closer to the mousetrap platform as opposed to 1/4" off, which it is in its unmodified state.
My question is then whether or not the mousetrap can be set in place with an exterior mechanism as opposed to the original mousetrap mechanism if the mousetrap isn't actually modified.

[deanjagielo]

I am not entirely sure what is being asked, but according to the rules, "Unmodified means that all the original parts of the original mousetrap remain in place. Things may be added to the mousetrap, but not removed. Holes may be drilled in the mousetrap base."

If an exterior mechanism is added to reposition the clamp, the trap has indeed been modified...all parts are not in place any longer. I would play it safe by adhering to the original, in place location of all parts of the mousetrap.

Dean