November Mission Model Discussion: M06 - WATER TREATMENT part 2, Using the Model

Welcome to the November Mission Model Discussion! From now until just before Thanksgiving this space will feature ONE part of the FIRST LEGO League HYDRO DYNAMICS game challenge per day. The Robot Game is only 1/4th of the overall FIRST LEGO League challenge for teams this year! This post is meant to be an aid, not a replacement for carefully reading the Challenge Guide!

At the Beginning of the Match: The Water Treatment model is set loosely between it's two support pieces. The long axle is connected to the model, connected to the long axle that runs under the pipes model, and connected to the long axle that runs to the secured Toilet model. The yellow handle on the toilet is in the up position. One Big Water and one Sludge is loaded into the Water Treatment model. The water tower is up.
Required for Scoring: The Water Treatment Model ejects it's Big Water
Conditions: The Big Water can only be ejected by moving the Toilet lever. (remember to press and hold)
Score: 20 points
Note from Oregon Head Referee Tom: Scores at the end of the match if the Big Water has been ejected by moving the Toilet lever.
Note: the Lever is only the two yellow L-beams - not the white beams on the North side of the Toilet. If the robot moves the Lever but the Water Treatment Plant does not operate correctly, the Referee may eject the Big Water and place the Sludge on the mat east of the conveyor belt.

Real World Impact: The Water Treatment and Toilet models really do a good job of representing everything that happens when water leaves our houses and businesses. Households use a lot of water and ultimately all of that water ends up going to a water treatment facility where the sludge can be separated from the water and clean water can be ejected into the natural environment, often into a nearby river or stream. Without the step of water treatment our natural water systems would be full of sewage, bacteria, and trash. Think about the things you dump down the drain or flush in your house. What about when you are washing dirty clothes or dishes?

Discussion: While the Water Treatment model is near base, the Toilet is over 4 feet away. How can you ensure your robot can push and hold the toilet lever with precision after that distance? Are you using a sensor? Which one and where?