The NOVAC Robotic Observatory is described at
http://www.novac.com/robo/index.htm .  As described there, the project
team has been making progress on many fronts.  But before some decisions can be
made, the basic structure of the observatory must be defined.

Many potential structure designs have been discussed by the team, including
roll-off roofs, domes, flip-tops, clam-shells, etc.  But to ensure that we have a
robust design solution (within our limited budget) we are inviting all NOVAC
members to submit design proposals.

If you are interested in submitting a proposal, you are strongly encouraged to
review the following documentation:

1) the project description, at http://www.novac.com/robo/index.htm and links to
related info included there
2) the overall project requirements document, including requirements for the
structure, at http://www.novac.com/robo/roboscope_req.htm
3) sketch of the telescope configuration at http://www.novac.com/robo/Lx200.jpg
(note - we do NOT plan to use a dew shield.)

Here are some specific design considerations, some of which may not be obvious
from the documents above:

1) The plot of land we will be using is rocky ground.  The number of required
holes in the ground may be a factor.
2) The structure must be able to open after a significant snowfall, without
dumping snow on the telescope.
3) The design does not include weather assessment features (separate efforts)
although it must permit such attachments.
4) The design does include the structure, plus mechanical/electrical automation
including motors, drives, and sensors.
5) Because we may eventually need to relocate, some degree of portability is
desirable
6) Design must not depend on the telescope position to open/close.
7) Must be fail safe - must never leave equipment exposed to elements in event of
a computer, network or power failure. Assume the facility will not be reachable
for a minimum of two hours (travel time to the site)
8) A clear view by the telescope down to the horizon in all directions is
desirable, but some sacrifice may be accepted.
9) Must function in all weather extremes.
10) Must provide power and ventilation for computers and electronics.
11) Must be fully locking and relatively secure.
12) Must be weather proof, adequate to protect the equipment from the elements
when closed.
13) All facility functions must be fully automatable but provide access to people
on-site.
14) All equipment and electronics must be easily accessible for servicing.
15) Must provide a separate compartment for computer equipment measuring
approximately 26" deep, 24" high and 36" to 48" wide. (structure must address
heat generated by the electronics with respect to interference with optics)
16) Must provide for power and phone service connections.

If you have questions not answered by the documents and other guidance above,
please submit them and we will post replies to this list.

There will be two phases of the competition:

Preliminary design, submitted prior to January 12, to include:

- Drawings to scale with as much detail as available. (Enough to convey the
concepts)
- A loose estimate of building materials and costs.
- A description of how your design addresses each of the key requirements.
- Be prepared to make a verbal presentation of your design to answer questions.
- Highly desirable, but not mandatory by January 12: architectural model (scale
model built out of foam board, balsa, whatever) demonstrating the mechanical
function/nature of the design.  does not have to be fancy but good enough to
convey the nature/key ideas of the design.  If not completed prior to January 12,
the design may still be selected for further work, but a model must be completed
as part of the final design.

Final Design:

One or more designs will be selected from the submissions and asked to do a
detailed design which must include:

- A construction plan (what needs to be built in what order)
- A detailed cost estimate.
- Detailed drawings adequate for building the structure.
- A test plan
- The designer may be asked to make some changes based on the design evaluation.
- The designer must be available during building, testing and deployment of the
structure.

The resulting design selected may be a single design, a new design using
components of several designs, or reserve the right not to choose a design.

If you intend to submit a design, you must notify Craig Tupper
no later than December 31.  Depending on the number of
designs to be submitted, we may alter the review schedule/ process.

Thanks for your interest in the NOVAC Robotic Observatory!