Several years ago the ASME Student Design Contest centered around designing and demonstrating a device which could accurately and repeatedly cast a specified simulated fishing lure, and which could be operated orally by a quadriplegic with a "sip and puff" set of switches. Scoring in that contest was based primarily on the accuracy of the cast, and required the use of a specific fishing rod and reel. The contest rules were on the web, where they were found by many people who were related to or wished to help a particular quadriplegic friend. Numerous requests were received for information on where such a device could be obtained. Clearly there is a need for a device which will allow a quadriplegic to enjoy fishing, and who better than ASME students to supply the designs? It is time to revisit this contest with some changes.

Specifically, you are requested to design and demonstrate a well-tested, cost-effective, and reliable prototype apparatus which would allow a quadriplegic to cast a fishing lure accurately, to retrieve the lure, to make additional casts without assistance, and to reel in and lift a heavier weight simulating a fish on at least one cast.

Futhermore, this time part of the contest score will depend on a brief description of the device that is suitable for posting on the web.  The description should allow a moderately skilled mechanic or technician to build the device.  To be included in the scoring the description must be submitted to the appropriate judging team approximately 14 days ahead of the beginning of the local Spring Student contest or the IMECE contest.