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FX-Sabers Discussion - Including a Gallery of custom sabers. => LED SABERS => Topic started by: SirRawThunderMan on January 01, 2021, 03:42:08 AM

Title: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 01, 2021, 03:42:08 AM
I got bored of waiting for anyone else to do this and decided to show some initiative and get the ball rolling.   :tongue:

This is an entirely unofficial poll, I haven't consulted any mods about this or gotten any official permission. The results aren't binding, I just wanted to get a feel of what the Forum in general thought. The ideas are taken from the Possible Contest Ideas thread here https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?topic=54658.0 (https://www.fx-sabers.com/forum/index.php?topic=54658.0)

Here are the most popular options from that thread. My criteria is that any of the ideas that got referred to in replies as ideas that people wanted to try get a poll option.

- Iron Chef - Everyone has to use a certain part, e.g. an MHS booster section, a graflex clamp, an MHS pommel or blade holder, etc.

- Themed lightaber - blend your favorite genre, franchise, character, time period, era, steampunk, cyberpunk, atompunk, dieselpunk, any-punk, post-apocalyptic, superhero, video game, music group, tv show, art style, lightsaber maker, sword, gun, axe, hammer, sportsball team, ... literally anything!

- One-hand/Shoto/Padawan hilt - fully functioning, but short... e.g. not including shrouds, tip of blade holder to end of pommel no more than 6".

- The Jazz Challenge: Aluminium? Pah! Brass? Phooey, I say! Steel, copper and bronze? Get them out of my sight! Make a saber from non-traditional materials only. For practicality's sake, there would have to be some kind of metal core to hold the saber together, as well as nuts and bolts here and there, but outside that, anything goes as long as it's not Metal. 3D printed parts (within reason), sculpted epoxy putty, woodwork, glass, whatever you can come up with.

- The Jedi with the Golden Saber Challenge: Inspired by the Bond film of a similar name, the idea is simple, but the execution difficult: make a working duel-capable saber, that can be broken up into multiple parts and reassembled. Like Kannan Jarrus' but more extreme than a emitter-hilt split.

- Iron Chef-One Piece Twist: Same as the Iron Chef above. But, instead of having to use one MHS part, you can pick any one MHS part from the entire catalogue, and it's the ONLY MHS part you can use for the entire build (excluding some essential, non hilt parts, like LED holders/pixel connectors, switch boxes, etc)

*Edited to add 11/01/2021*

Added by popular demand

- Systems Theme Challenge:How about a Star Wars galaxy “system” challenge. Hoth, Bespin, Degoba, Corrusant, etc themed?

I've given the poll until the end of the month, two votes per head, with results hidden until the end so we can't be influenced by popularity.

So, get voting, and Happy New Year!

Thunder out.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on January 01, 2021, 04:26:18 AM
Voted, thanks for posting this, man! :afro:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: bombarta on January 02, 2021, 11:04:36 AM
Voted  :grin:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: COUNT DOOKU on January 02, 2021, 05:30:58 PM
Voted.   :cool:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Greenie on January 03, 2021, 09:59:56 AM
Voted :lamp:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 03, 2021, 11:01:34 AM
Sorry, I think I kinda broke the secret nature of the poll while trying to edit my original post. And now I can't get it back to fully hidden again. I've set it to reveal after voting.

My bad  :embarrassed:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Nemezis on January 05, 2021, 03:41:08 PM
Voted  :evil:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Guylo Ren on January 06, 2021, 12:17:13 AM
Voted.Some great themes here,& the challenge varies greatly depending on individual build style!
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Darkmatter73 on January 06, 2021, 08:22:18 AM
I have spoken.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 06, 2021, 11:12:52 AM
I have spoken.

This is the way.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: K-2SO on January 06, 2021, 02:33:22 PM
I have spoken.

This is the way.

Hmmm......
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on January 07, 2021, 06:53:50 PM
Voted. While I don’t have a great suggestion, not super excited about any of these options...certainly not as much as the flashgun.    The non Star Wars themes specifically don’t feel right.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 08, 2021, 03:46:08 AM
Voted. While I don’t have a great suggestion, not super excited about any of these options...certainly not as much as the flashgun.    The non Star Wars themes specifically don’t feel right.

Think of it like a Kenobi. We're making sabers, ergo, everything we make is Star Wars. From a certain point of view.  :wink:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on January 08, 2021, 06:34:11 PM
Touché....I can agree, from a certain point of view.

How about a Star Wars galaxy “system” challenge.

Hoth, Bespin, Degoba, Corrusant, etc themed?  My initial stab at offering constructive feedback after throwing a wrench.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 09, 2021, 07:46:47 AM
Touché....I can agree, from a certain point of view.

How about a Star Wars galaxy “system” challenge.

Hoth, Bespin, Degoba, Corrusant, etc themed?  My initial stab at offering constructive feedback after throwing a wrench.

Don't get me wrong, I can throw it in the mix, but I feel that kinda falls under the same category as the Themed Lightsaber Challenge.

Tell you what, I'll apply the same criteria as I did for choosing challenges from the original post. If anyone else thinks a Star Wars Galaxy System Challenge is a good idea, write something like "I think this challenge is a good idea" in a post below and I'll add it to the list.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on January 10, 2021, 09:03:22 AM
I think it's nice to have some different challenges for a change.  These things tend to be so stogy and purist.  Building something outside of your comfort zone might give you new insights and perspectives.

Building sabers with random parts, does clever things most sabers don't, uses unconventional materials, and on themes outside of star was is basically what I do.  I think it's great to have something that isn't "build yet another in canon hilt"

Other concepts I'd like to see are things like "only found parts and plumbing parts" or "all electronics from scratch"
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Guylo Ren on January 10, 2021, 01:57:24 PM
I would indeed second Scott's idea,a specific System themed hilt is a fine idea!We've all seen variations over the years,be nice to have some fresh takes now that even more fresh locations have shown up across all media.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 11, 2021, 03:24:58 AM
I would indeed second Scott's idea,a specific System themed hilt is a fine idea!We've all seen variations over the years,be nice to have some fresh takes now that even more fresh locations have shown up across all media.

Yessir! I'll go amend the poll.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Guylo Ren on January 11, 2021, 12:13:31 PM
Not to throw too many spanners in these works but a theme I've always wanted to see everybody combine on is,Sabers From Concept Art.
A few of these have been runs etc,but a lot tend to be one-offs made by the maker for themselves,& I reckon that could almost be a competition in its own right as there's so much design material out there.


NB: This has nothing whatsoever to do with the fact that my only long-ongoing project is such a design.No,nothing at all. :angel:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 23, 2021, 03:51:30 AM
One last week to vote if you haven't already!
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 29, 2021, 05:18:53 AM
Final voting day! We have a clear front runner, but that could all change.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 30, 2021, 09:35:36 AM
And so we have it. with ten votes cast out of a possible 34, the Golden Saber Challenge is the winner of this entirely unofficial contest poll. Not going to lie, I kinda had my hopes up for the Jazz Challenge, but eh, maybe 2022  :wink:

Right then, if we're all fine with going ahead, I guess we'd better come up with some guidelines. How's this sound (he says, copying e57's formula from last time)

The Golden Saber Challenge:


Requirements:

-To construct, by the contest deadline, a working, duel-capable* saber, with or without sound
-This saber must be capable of being stripped down into as many constituent parts as the builder wishes, and reassembled, without using external tools.
-This can be a custom design, or a conversion of an existing saber, replica kit

*Duel-Capable meaning that the completed saber, in its assembled form, should be sturdy enough for "light" duelling. ie, not a shelf queen.

End produt should:
-Light up
-be capable of being broken down and reassembled without tools, unless those tools are inbuilt, and light up afterwards
-something else?

I dunno, I've run dry. Anyone else got any suggestions?

Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on January 30, 2021, 12:02:34 PM
I think we need to dutch the duel capable rule. That will be really limiting and steer designs toward common solutions.  Do we really want a saber that is mostly just screwing a could pieces together with some clip on greeblies?  Unlike the golden gun or a "real" saber, our little gadgets under go pretty considerable torque.

Ditching this rule allows more money and complex designs.

The hilt should be able to be hold itself together and swing around without a blade. If it can withstand the torque and impact of dueling, let the voters decide if that contributes to their vote.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on January 31, 2021, 02:56:47 AM
I agree.  A swing around is sufficient, but dueling might be a stretch.  Especially with no tools, it might not be practical with just MHS/MHS-style threaded parts and thumbscrews.

However, adding one tool may help.  If parts can be bolstered by screws or mechanically tightened, that will help duel-ability.

Having made a few "take-apart" hilts previously, I can say this is a difficult challenge.  Without some solid ingenuity, it will be difficult to expand on "shell over core" or "hilt with some parts removable". 

I think there should be some guidance that addresses the "spirit" of the contest (i.e. objective statement).  What's our definitive example?  The concept of the "golden gun" is much different than a "disguised hilt" like Kanan's hilt.  Simply taking apart a lightsaber hilt is fine, but without specifying what the challenge should follow, you're left with "MHS + MWS, *bam* there's an entry." 

Here are some examples of what I mean:

An Eligible Hilt Must:
 - Utilize a variety of elements or components, disguised as non-lightsaber devices (e.g. droid caller, comlink, remote detonating device, tricorder, scanning device, etc.), that when combined together, utilizing maximum one tool, results in a functioning lightsaber hilt, with or without sound. *a la Golden Gun

or

 - Separate into elements or components, reasonably un-recognizable as lightsaber parts, that when combined together, utilizing maximum one tool, results in a functioning lightsaber hilt, with or without sound. *a la Kanan

or

 - Have the ability to be "field-stripped" into separate components and reassembled into a functioning lightsaber hilt, with or without sound, using only "assist" tools (e.g. to punch, torque, brace, etc.); no drivers, wrenches, pliers, etc.

An objective statement would be one of those (not all of them).

Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 31, 2021, 04:21:57 AM
Yeah, that's fair. Nix the duelling. That's kinda my hangup, I'm not a massive fan of shelf queens. I just feel a saber should be capable of doing something more than sit on a shelf (even if that is all it ends up doing.)

Okay, when I thought up the challenge, I was thinking a mix of options one and two, really. A disguised saber, for someone like an infiltrator or an assassin, or a post order 66 Jedi. something where the everyday greeblies that everyone carries on them the Star Wars Universe can be assembled to form something greater than the sum of their parts.

I definitely thing that a minimum of tools required to assemble should be a part of it. I'd also be partial to that tool being an integral part of the saber: for instance, I think it was one of jbkuma's sabers that had a thumbscrew where the bottom threads of the screw had been filed into a hex head for unscrewing the hex bolts on the saber. Something like that could be neat.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Greenie on January 31, 2021, 04:53:24 AM
This could be quite a challenge in itself. To create multiple parts that twist, plug, snap and screw together is gonna require some ingenuity and tenacity. For those parts to then be disguised as 'other things' could introduce a frustrating level of complexity to the task. I'm not suggesting simplicity but this is for fun, right? If I were to jump in on this one, I would support Eastern's 'Field Stripped' suggestion. However, I do think that you should be able to at least insert a blade for igniting the saber.


Greenie.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on January 31, 2021, 08:57:20 AM
Are we going to have any constraints or requirements on parts?  Given the no tools, seems that those of us without access to machining tools will be forced to rely on mhs, or plumbing supplies I guess.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Kolgrima on January 31, 2021, 12:24:48 PM
I would say that this theme may be more troublesome than a lot of folks first thought, my self included! but it's not written in stone, there is always the option to fall back to the runner up theme if we feel that would be more fun.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on January 31, 2021, 01:41:40 PM
I would say that this theme may be more troublesome than a lot of folks first thought, my self included! but it's not written in stone, there is always the option to fall back to the runner up theme if we feel that would be more fun.

Yeah, I'm definitely starting to think that, too  :undecided: It's certainly an option if we can't figure something out, but hopefully, we can bash something out of the Golden Saber first, though.

Okay, I've been thinking about this all day, and the only real idea I can come up with is this:

The goal would be to make a saber, either custom or a replica, with or without sound, that can be field stripped (disassembled and reassembled) with a minimum of tools.

The field stripped elements should have no obvious "Earthly" origin. By this, I mean that when you take the 18650 out of your saber, it should look like a "Diatium Power Cell," not an 18650. No field stripped part of it should look like a part made on Earth.

How does that sound?

Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on January 31, 2021, 06:28:23 PM
Thunder...I think you are making this more complex with each post!  Should we scratch off the switchcraft logo on the RCP and replace it with Auerbesh?

I totally want in on a build challenge since the last one was such a blast, but unsure on this. Maybe I will get inspired.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on January 31, 2021, 08:32:45 PM
It should be made of multiple independent components that have an apparent form or function unrelated to being a light saber. These parts should fit together in a way that requires no parts other than the independent components, and hold together as a functional saber. 

The more unique and in universe it looks, the more votes it will get. If it looks like a skateboard duct taped to a ham sandwich it won't get votes.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on February 01, 2021, 04:08:04 AM
Thunder...I think you are making this more complex with each post!  Should we scratch off the switchcraft logo on the RCP and replace it with Auerbesh?

I honestly think it's not that much more of a complication. We already spend ages making chassis that try and look like what we imagine the real thing to be, why not go the extra mile and make some of the major components look like the "real" thing, too?

Or, hey, I could be barking completely up the wrong tree, and this is just getting dafter every incarnation.

What would folks think of trying the runner up Jazz Challenge? the rules for that would be much simpler to work out.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on February 01, 2021, 06:19:29 AM
I didn't vote for golden saber, but I think you are over thinking it. All we need is the simple rules in my last comment and everything else will take care of itself.  We know what the golden gun is, if anyone doesn't that's a simple search to get the idea.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on February 01, 2021, 05:53:30 PM
JBKs last simple set of parameters is logical. I also suspect that the other details that thunder has dropped in will show up in voter discretion.

Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Iggy on February 02, 2021, 05:53:30 PM
E57 has laid out some pretty simple rules. It can be interpreted in a few ways. The options gives more people a chance to participate. The more the merrier.

I would love to see this kicked off so we can start. I have a few ideas for mine already.  :grin:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on February 03, 2021, 06:02:57 PM
I don’t!  I was hoping for a few more weeks or months of debate on the details so that I might get some inspiration!
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Iggy on February 04, 2021, 04:23:02 AM
I don’t!  I was hoping for a few more weeks or months of debate on the details so that I might get some inspiration!

You can use the build time frame to get inspired.  Just get it done before the due date. :wink:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on February 04, 2021, 04:36:03 AM
I have ideas for pretty much every category, and started sketching out several ideas.  That's nothing new though, I've got 10x as many paper sabers as actual builds.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on February 05, 2021, 06:11:25 AM
I think there's something here already, we just have to distil the good stuff.  You can use a combination of mine and JB's inputs to offer a challenge with options.  There doesn't need to be stringent rules, since a lot of the details can be covered by individual judgment, i.e. here's what were offering, please try to stay within the spirit of the challenge.  There's no right or wrong way to offer a challenge, just as long as you articulate the challenge and manage expectations.

SRTM, I say take what you have, mix it with the flashgun challenge parameters and mine & JB's posts to be more concise and focused, while still keeping the various options to project direction.  The best project (as defined by the individual voter) wins. ;) 


I have ideas for pretty much every category, and started sketching out several ideas.  That's nothing new though, I've got 10x as many paper sabers as actual builds.

Same.  My problem is that I have too many idea, and only one life time (with a job) to squeeze them all in. 
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on February 05, 2021, 06:53:49 AM
I have ideas for pretty much every category, and started sketching out several ideas.  That's nothing new though, I've got 10x as many paper sabers as actual builds.

Same.  My problem is that I have too many idea, and only one life time (with a job) to squeeze them all in.

We have a lot of similar ideas, but you are much faster than me!
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on February 05, 2021, 02:54:08 PM
Speaking of Real Life butting in, my apologies, it's been a hectic couple of days and I haven't had the time to check in on this thread much.

Okay, how does this sound?

Spirit of the contest:

-To make, in whatever way the contestants think possible, a working lightsaber that can be broken down in to multiple parts and reassembled, both internally and externally, with a minimum of tools. This is *not* just a matter of simply unscrewing an MHS saber, removing the chassis and calling it done.

-a finished saber should be made of multiple independent components. These parts should fit together in a way that requires no parts other than the independent components, and hold together as a functional saber. 

-This can be accomplished in any way the contestants wish. If you want to make fifteen separate props so that you can take the barrel extension off your blaster and screw it into your droid caller’s frame and turn it on with your thermal detonator’s switch, then more power to you, but it isn’t a mandatory requirement. Conversely, Kanan Jarrus would also be accepted, but only if he broke his saber down even further.

-Corran Horn’s saber is an example of a halfway complete challenge saber: made from junk found lying around a cantina and scrapyard, and recognisable mostly as a swoop bike handle. Master Horn would be disqualified, however, as he meditated his saber’s internals into one solid piece that would be impossible to take apart.

Requirements:

1: Make a working custom saber, with or without sound.
2: That can be entirely assembled and disassembled with a minimum of tools
3: And incorporate multiple independent components

Eligible entries must:

1: Include a minimum of four independent sub components (do we want more?)
2: Light up, be disassembled, reassembled, and light up again
3: Be executed, to the highest extent possible, adhering to the spirit of these guidelines


At it's core, the goal is a field strippable saber, but with enough artistic freedom that as long as it's field strippable, it's ok. if you want to make multiple props, go for it, if you want to make a saber where the 18650 is disguised as a Diatium Power Cell, that also, and anything in between. As long as it breaks down, up again, in multiple parts, and lights up.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on February 05, 2021, 06:52:10 PM
Sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on February 10, 2021, 01:01:23 PM
That's a lot better.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on February 14, 2021, 09:00:40 AM
Right, then if we're okay on terms, we should probably figure out an end date. Before or after summer?
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on February 15, 2021, 07:31:59 AM
6+ months last year wasn’t enough for many so I would set that as the floor to hopefully get more entries.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on February 16, 2021, 03:05:39 AM
So, October 1st again, then?
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on February 16, 2021, 06:03:39 PM
Seeing as you seem to be driving this thing, you might want to throw in an extra 3 weeks for yourself   :cool:   
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: EXAR KUN on February 16, 2021, 09:07:02 PM
SirRawThunderMan and myself will be live this Friday discussing star wars, lightsabers, and this lightsaber challenge on my Youtube channel:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Yoda on February 19, 2021, 03:58:48 PM
I definitely think this will be a good challenge and the parameters for disassembly and secondary parts usage is going to be
very cool to see what people come up with  :cool:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on February 25, 2021, 04:18:11 PM
It's a difficult challenge, for sure.  I agree that this needs some long lead times.  1 Oct might be reasonable, but that means you'd have to start it up relatively soon... if I could be so bold, I might even suggest a Thanksgiving deadline (late Nov) and a Christmas reveal. 

This is definitely one that favors the machine toolers... but I've done a few, and it's not out of the question for hand-toolers.

Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on February 28, 2021, 02:13:43 AM
It's a difficult challenge, for sure.  I agree that this needs some long lead times.  1 Oct might be reasonable, but that means you'd have to start it up relatively soon... if I could be so bold, I might even suggest a Thanksgiving deadline (late Nov) and a Christmas reveal. 

This is definitely one that favors the machine toolers... but I've done a few, and it's not out of the question for hand-toolers.

Yeah, that's fair.

My apologies for not keeping up with this post, there's been some Darth Real Life stuff going on for me over the last week or so. I'm not going to go into specifics, but I'm probably going to be AFK for a little longer. A week, maybe more.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 13, 2021, 10:32:56 AM
Ok, I'm back. Please forgive my short leave of absence. I won't go into details, but the TL;DR summary involved COVID in the family, and yeah. wasn't a great couple of weeks.

But that's mostly in the past now, and I'm getting back to things.

So, the story so far. Here's what we've agreed on up until now:

The Golden Saber Contest

Spirit of the contest:

-To make, in whatever way the contestants think possible, a working lightsaber that can be broken down in to multiple parts and reassembled, both internally and externally, with a minimum of tools. This is *not* just a matter of simply unscrewing an MHS saber, removing the chassis and calling it done.

-a finished saber should be made of multiple independent components. These parts should fit together in a way that requires no parts other than the independent components, and hold together as a functional saber.

-This can be accomplished in any way the contestants wish. If you want to make fifteen separate props so that you can take the barrel extension off your blaster and screw it into your droid caller’s frame and turn it on with your thermal detonator’s switch, then more power to you, but it isn’t a mandatory requirement. Conversely, Kanan Jarrus would also be accepted, but only if he broke his saber down even further.

-Corran Horn’s saber is an example of a halfway complete challenge saber: made from junk found lying around a cantina and scrapyard, and recognisable mostly as a swoop bike handle. Master Horn would be disqualified, however, as he meditated his saber’s internals into one solid piece that would be impossible to take apart.

Requirements:

1: Make a working custom saber, with or without sound.
2: That can be entirely assembled and disassembled with a minimum of tools
3: And incorporate multiple independent components

Eligible entries must:

1: Include a minimum of four independent sub components
2: Light up, be disassembled, reassembled, and light up again
3: Be executed, to the highest extent possible, adhering to the spirit of these guidelines


At it's core, the goal is a field strippable saber, but with enough artistic freedom that as long as it's field strippable, it's ok. if you want to make multiple props, go for it, if you want to make a saber where the 18650 is disguised as a Diatium Power Cell, that also, and anything in between. As long as it breaks down, up again, in multiple parts, and lights up.

Since there were no major objections to this as rules, I think it's safe to proceed with them. 

Contest dates:


Personally, I'm inclined to go with Eastern57's suggested dates of now until Thanksgiving (I'm assuming US not Canadian, so 25th Nov), with voting between then and Christmas (24th), for a Christmas reveal. This challenge is going to be a tough one, so the extra time is going to be welcome.

If we're all ok with this, I guess the next steps are that I'll go ask FJK if he'd be onboard to judge again, and then official permission from the Mods to run this, and we're a go.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on March 13, 2021, 05:21:08 PM
Looks good so far.  There should be some mention of the contest end and reveal/voting conditions, i.e. what format shall entries be judged and how to submit an entry.

Given the nature of the build, I absolutely think this should be a video submission.  Still-shots will not satisfy the eligibility verification.  And before anyone suggests it - no, I don't believe changing the eligibility is appropriate for this challenge. 

Suggested video standard:

- Video submission must show the saber working, then must be visibly disassembled and reassembled to show continued functionality, with no video cuts.

 - Video quality should be as high as possibly with good lighting and clear sight of the project with individual components clearly shown.  Video background should be as neutral as possible, recommend all white or mirrored surface with no additional background visible in the reflection.

 - It is recommended that there be no dialog, video effects or additional sounds/music, the purpose of the submission video is to clearly show off your contest entry, NOT to entertain.

 - Suggested format: <30 sec to show preliminary functionality, no more then 5 minutes to disassemble and reassemble (shoot for 2-3 minutes), <30 seconds to show continued functionality."



I personally don't think we need to be anonymous, but I was overruled last time...  The blank background helps, but it doesn't solve the issue of the account giving away the contestant.  If FKJ is willing to host them on his channel, that could work, and I'm sure it'll get him a few more subs too. FTR, a 5-minute HD video from my phone is about 450Mb, from my 4K camera its about 1Gb.


Other suggestions:
 - Specify what doesn't count as one of the 4 subcomponents, screws, blade etc... or make a statement that it's up the builder to decide, but will inevitably be judged on said decision.

 - Specify no prizes will be bestowed or offered by any of the members.

 - In the flashgun challenge, I said what it meant to me.  If you're offering a challenge to people then telling people why it's special to you may tickle a similar passion.  we may need it since the challenge is already pretty tough.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 14, 2021, 04:37:43 AM
Other suggestions:
 - Specify what doesn't count as one of the 4 subcomponents, screws, blade etc... or make a statement that it's up the builder to decide, but will inevitably be judged on said decision.

 - Specify no prizes will be bestowed or offered by any of the members.

 - In the flashgun challenge, I said what it meant to me.  If you're offering a challenge to people then telling people why it's special to you may tickle a similar passion.  we may need it since the challenge is already pretty tough.

No disagreement from me. I was going to put some of those suggestions in the announcement post when it went live. As for the video stuff, I'll pass it along to FJK when I ask. :smiley:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Darth Brooks on March 14, 2021, 05:20:29 PM
Do we know when this will start? I'm actually in the process of building my very first custom saber and think this would be a really fun contest
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 15, 2021, 07:45:25 AM
Do we know when this will start? I'm actually in the process of building my very first custom saber and think this would be a really fun contest

Hopefully, some time soon. Watch this space.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: COUNT DOOKU on March 15, 2021, 09:15:34 AM
I'll be hopping in on this contest. It has been a while, and would be good to try this one out- as I've never really made anything quite like this challenge.  :cool:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: jbkuma on March 15, 2021, 09:34:12 AM
As to Eastern's comments about anonymity, I'm not sure to what extent, should we have an embargo on build logs?  Since we aren't playing for money, as it were, I don't think it's too serious.  Obviously anonymity means that people won't vote for or against a maker just because of who they are, on the other hand if people have engagement through out the contest it could help liven things up and draw in more entries.  One thing that has been missing here lately is lively build logs where people can share in the joy and frustrations of building a saber.  That's one of the things that drew me here as opposed to other places where it's all about buying and collecting.

It's also going to be really hard to properly present the saber in just photos.  I don't think we need to hold up launching the contest for this, but it we should have a discussion on how to present it.  It would be a shame for video production quality to be the deciding factor, so maybe we confine the video strictly demonstrating the assembly, disassembly, and functionality.  I think setting a hard time limit doesn't really work, because if someone makes a really complex build they may not have enough time to properly present their saber. 

This build also lends itself to some story telling, and perhaps some short narrative as to why the wielder needs to have a disguised saber should be included, maybe this gets left to text to level the playing field a bit?  Some of us will want to make short films, and I think that's great, perhaps that can be a secondary follow up contest for afterward, again this should be on the merit of the build, not best video production.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on March 15, 2021, 02:44:00 PM
I was told that the admins wanted anonymous voting.  I tried to argue against it, but my final compromise was to request asking the members to vote on it; members voted anonymous.  The reason was that it precludes favoritism.  Which I can sort of understand from a leadership perspective... I've seen my share of forum drama... but as a regular member, I don't think it's necessary.

IMO, this MUST be a video submission, full stop.  I also think that video quality standard should still be as high as possible. Btw, just quality, not to be confused with "production value", e.g. edits, cuts, effect, none of that - just high quality, as in resolution, framing, lighting, pacing etc.  My reasoning is, if you can make a lightsaber that can be field stripped, you should be able to make a good enough video to show it off.  If not, best up your game. :cool:

I hadn't thought about the story telling aspect, I REALLY like that angle.  I've done it an I really think it enhances the end result.  Purpose is what makes design elements work, and if there's a purpose for seemingly random feature or greeble, then it should be explained for the full appreciation.  Good call, JB! :azn:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: K-2SO on March 15, 2021, 03:54:44 PM
I’ll weigh in here on the voting aspect - we want it to be anonymous mainly because we don’t want to have any accusations of “favoritism”. “Fairness” is the bottom line.

When that position was discussed with FJK, he agreed, especially with the rationale. He mentioned that in one of the more recent contests on TCSS, one of the contestants went fishing on social media for people to come in and vote for him, and FJK found out about it.  :police:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 15, 2021, 04:23:37 PM
Good news everyone, I messaged FJK, and he's onboard as our Grand Contest Adjudicator!

Re: a video story, I'd argue that while it's a cool idea and I'd be up for that, I think it should be kept as a separate thing from this contest, though. I feel that The Golden Saber is what this contest is about, not slickness of video production.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Greenie on March 16, 2021, 03:59:52 PM
I think all the entries should be judged on the one video, as described by Eastern 57. Back stories and build logs will make entertaining 'bonus material' after the reveal and keep us talking about the ideas and concepts. And the intrigue of how and why, may influence the vote more fairly.


Greenie.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: scott on March 17, 2021, 12:53:15 PM
Will have to be extra careful on video, eastern is a sleuth and can put you based on the smallest detail!
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 18, 2021, 04:52:39 AM
Will have to be extra careful on video, eastern is a sleuth and can put you based on the smallest detail!

I mean, if you're going to make it easy and leave the metadata in your jpegs...  :tongue:
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Iggy on March 29, 2021, 06:45:19 AM
Looking forward to starting on this. I am already beginning to accrue some parts.  :grin:

Let's set a due date. The longer we wait, the later the due date people will want.

The video is fine by me. No talking, just putting it together and turning it on. It is really hard to express that in just photos. I got a lot of questions on how mine opened up last time at the joint of the flash unit. Video would be better to show assembly/disassembly.

Gloves required for the videos?
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Forgetful Jedi Knight on March 29, 2021, 11:00:34 AM
Since everyone seems to be anxious to get started, I am looking into the various possibilities of hosting videos in a central spot. I haven’t settled on anything definite yet. With that said, I don’t see that as an impediment to your collective suffering,  :evil: so if you want to start the contest, I don’t mind.

Once I settle on how to handle the videos, I’ll let you all know.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: Darth Brooks on March 29, 2021, 11:41:59 AM
Maybe this was said but we should require like a black or white background or something? Some folks post many more vids than others that it'll be a dead give away who the entrant is. That is if we're trying to stay anonymous for judging purposes?
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: eastern57 on March 29, 2021, 04:02:37 PM
I agree we should get started.  I think we've more or less decided on a Thanksgiving deadline/stop/submit-by and a Christmas winner reveal.  That should be sufficient... even for all those sneaksey DRL'ses..

I think Thunder was helmed to lead this off, but if he's indisposed, I could write something up this weekend.

@Darth Brooks, Backgrounds have been mentioned.  I think something like, "Blank white, neutral, unrecognizable background - just NOT your usual show-off spot." would work fine for our purposes. 

I don't think the mirror background will work.  It was fine for still shots, but it probably won't work for video, especially since you have to get all up in there.
Title: Re: Unofficial 2021 challenge poll
Post by: SirRawThunderMan on March 29, 2021, 05:02:36 PM
I agree we should get started.  I think we've more or less decided on a Thanksgiving deadline/stop/submit-by and a Christmas winner reveal.  That should be sufficient... even for all those sneaksey DRL'ses..

I think Thunder was helmed to lead this off, but if he's indisposed, I could write something up this weekend.

Look out for an announcement in LED Sabers, tomorrow.

...It would have been tonight, but it's 1AM on my side of the Atlantic, and I need some shuteye  :wink: