52 Super Scale Competition

52.1 Scope

Super Scale Competition comprises a single event open to any entry consisting of:

• A model rocket that is a true scale model of an existing or historical guided missile, rocket vehicle, or space vehicle; and
  
• A launching complex that is a true scale model of the launching complex used by the prototype of the scale model rocket. Launching complex elements that do not directly support or guide the rocket (e.g., umbilical towers or buildings) do not have to be modeled. Their inclusion would, however, contribute to the score.

52.2 Purpose

The purpose of this competition is to produce an accurate flying replica of a real rocket vehicle, and an accurate working replica of its actual launching complex; both of which exhibit maximum craftsmanship in construction, finish, and performance.

 

52.3 Judging

The model rocket and its flight must comply with the rules of the Scale Competition (Rule 50) and shall be judged for scale qualities and awarded scale points according to the rules for Scale Competition.

 

52.4 Launching Complex Judging

The launching complex and the model rocket shall be judged for scale qualities at the same time.

 

52.5 Launching Complex Modeling

The launching complex shall be of the same prototype (or round) as that used to launch the particular serial-numbered prototype rocket entered by the modeler.

 

52.6 Launching Complex Safety

A model rocket launching device satisfying the requirements of Rules 5.4, 5.5, and 5.6, shall be built as an integral part of the scale launching complex.

 

52.7 Points

Scale points shall be awarded to the launching complex according to the following schedule:

52.7.1 Scale Data: 50 points

Points will be awarded for data which exceeds the minimum requirements; however, data will be judged on quality, not quantity. All data presented should apply to the particular prototype that is being modeled. Minimum allowable data consists of:

• Scale factor
• Color pattern (documented either in writing or by photographs)
• One clear photograph, halftone, or photo-reproduction
• Substantiation that the particular launcher modeled was indeed used to launch the prototype rocket chosen
• For all dimensions that the modeler has attempted to accurately scale, both the actual (prototype) dimensions and the scaled (model) dimensions, presented in a table or on a drawing

Dimensions for which explicit data cannot be found may be calculated by proportioning drawings or photos; dimensions obtained in this manner must be so identified in the data.

Any entry not accompanied by the minimum allowable data as listed above shall receive zero scale points for the launching complex. In addition, the data presented should show the details of the launch complex in order to receive maximum points. Points may be deducted if the scale packet contains data not pertinent to the prototype launcher; if the data is presented in such a manner as to complicate judging, if the scale indicated on the data does not match the scale of the model launching complex, or if the launching complex is not to the same scale as the model rocket.

 

52.7.2 Accuracy of Major Dimensions: 200 points

Major dimensions include dimensions of subassemblies, location of details, location of paint pattern, and so on. At least 5 dimensions shall be checked for accuracy. It is recommended that calipers be used to check small scale dimensions and the judges attempt to measure the main launcher dimensions to at least 0.5 millimeters. Points shall be deducted according to the percentage of deviation from the scale dimensions. Launcher dimensions so small that they cannot be measured to better than a 1% tolerance should not be measured by the judges, but should appear scale-like.

 

52.7.3 Accuracy of Color and Markings: 50 points

The color and texture (e.g., flat, glossy) of the paint should conform to the data and photographs. Lettering and insignia, if applicable, should be scaled and properly reproduced. Paint patterns should be properly proportioned.

 

52.7.4 Accuracy of Details: 50 points

Details such as rivets, cover plates, bolts, cables, prototype imperfections, and so on, that appear in the data should be present and properly scaled.

 

52.7.5 General Appearance: 100 points

The launch complex should look like the photo(s) of the prototype launcher. No points shall be deducted for neatly constructed modifications to the launching complex that are necessary to effect the safe and proper launching of a model rocket.

 

52.7.6 Craftsmanship: 250 points

Points will be awarded for neatness, care in construction, craftsmanship of details, quality of finish, and construction of movable parts (if applicable). Consideration should be given to the invisibility of wood grain and the proper curving of curved parts. The finish should be free of fingerprints, brush strokes, runs, or other unintentional blemishes; and the paint pattern should be well defined. The details should be precise, and neither more nor less obvious than on the prototype. In addition, consideration should be given for the ingenuity and care with which the launching device is built into the launching complex.

 

52.7.7 Degree of Difficulty: 200 points

Points shall be awarded according to the difficulty experienced by the modeler in building the launching complex and adapting it for the launching of the scale model rocket. Points to be considered by the Judges include the use of prefabricated parts and details, intricacy of the complex, number of detailed components, difficulty of detailing, difficulty of finishing, parts and details that were individually constructed by the modeler, and difficulty in adapting the complex to launch model rockets. (To facilitate judging, the contestant should point out difficult assemblies or construction problems in his/her scale packet.)

 

52.7.8 Operation: 100 points

Points shall be awarded for success of operation under launch conditions, lack of damage under launch, and realism. In addition, points shall be awarded for working parts operated manually or by automatic or remote control under launch conditions.

52.8 Scoring

Super Scale Competition shall be scored as follows: the points awarded the model rocket in static judging, the points awarded the model rocket in flight, and the points awarded to the launching complex shall be summed. The contestant receiving the highest score is the winner.

 

52.9 Return of Judging Worksheet

At the conclusion of a scale craftsmanship event, each entry shall receive a copy of the judging worksheet for his/her entry as a part of the official contest results from the CD.

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