I'm glad someone grabbed a photo of this in action! I wasn't able to attend this off-season event, but from what I was told many of our newer students got some great first time competition experience and the team had a great time.
The wacky waving disc blocker was conceived after our state fair event after removing our less-than-functional ground pickup system. Some of the most entertaining ideas come up over a team dinner at Bandana's BBQ
The waver is powered by a 10" fan directly mounted to a CIM motor with a shroud to direct the air:
We 3D printed the CIM mounting plate from the students' design, mainly because we just didn't have time to manufacture a metal plate. Unfortunately non-plastic 3D prints don't hold up too well when you run into the pyramid. Good thing we printed two of them! -
And here's a video of it in action inflating back at our shop:
http://youtu.be/ob9HKrz7-p4
Our team has a lot of plans for the time between now and the start of build season. We can't wait to compete next year and are aiming high for next season.
p.s. Thanks Akash. If we are successful this year it's because of everyone who has helped myself & our team(s) over the years, and from our student's hard work. We have a great group and I'm lucky to be working with them.