We are exploring the possibility of reducing the area of Zone 3 in our design. In reference to the design guide, particularly the rule stating, “Typical floor plans of maximum buildable areas for different zones of the building are shown in Figure 8,” we are considering a design where the building follows the sequence from ground to top as Zone 1 – Zone 2 – Zone 1. We seek your clarification on whether this modification is permissible. To clarify further, our primary objective is to minimize the impact of dead loads in Zone 3. In other words, we seek to prevent inserting dead loads in Zone 3. To achieve this, we are considering a design where the building follows the sequence from ground to top as Zone 1 – Zone 2 – Zone 1. This strategic arrangement aims to optimize our structure while adhering to the guidelines set forth in the competition.

Teams may choose to have floors that are smaller than the maximum buildable areas in their corresponding zones. However, it is also each team’s responsibility to make sure that the dead loads can be properly applied at each location. With that being said, for Zone 3, floors with 8” x 12” size are not permitted since dead loads in Zone 3 can not be properly applied under this configuration.

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