Q2: Can we use any type of 'guide' for the ppb after the launch? A2: The challenge states that "The launch point of the ping pong balls may be no closer than 2.0 feet away from the target container ..." We expect that while the PPB is traveling this distance that it will not be in contact with any object. After it travels those 2 feet it is free to to enter the "container" or to strike anything else before entering the "container." Q1: Will the completed machine need to match the team's "Step-by-Step" description exactly? A1: The final machine does NOT need to conform with the submitted 20 steps nor does the 20 step description figure into the final scoring. The purpose of this requirement is to keep teams on track in planning and development and to ensure that teams are thinking about the minimum requirements for steps and energy conversions and how they might develop a theme for the machine. Also during the 20 step review that we do we look for safety concerns such as the use of open flames or hazardous materials.