national robotics challenge contest manual -...

National Robotics Challenge

Contest Manual

April 12, 13 & 14, 2012

www.nationalroboticschallenge.org

Veterans Memorial Coliseum Marion, Ohio

(Updated 12/28/11)

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2011 Contest Sponsors We would like to thank our Contest Sponsors from the 2011 event. Without their financial and in-kind contributions this event would not have been possible.

__________________________________________________________________

Premier Corporate Sponsor

_________________________________________________________________

Founding Partner

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Corporate Contest Sponsors - $1000.00 +

__________________________________________________________________

Contributing Partners - Less than $500.00 and in-kind contributions

Ohio Technology and Engineering Educators Association

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Table of Contents

OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS ....................................................................................... 6

General Competition Information ................................................................................................ 8 Dr. James Hannemann Leadership and Service Award .......................................................... 11

Parent/Student Authorization Form ........................................................................................... 12 Project Report Guideline ............................................................................................................ 13

Sumo Robot ................................................................................................................................. 14 Mini-Sumo Robot ........................................................................................................................ 17

Manufacturing Robotic Work Cell.............................................................................................. 19 Pick and Place Programming ..................................................................................................... 22

Robot Construction .................................................................................................................... 25 Robot Maze Contest .................................................................................................................... 28

Rescue Robot (formerly Top of the Hill) ................................................................................... 37 Robo Hockey ............................................................................................................................... 44

Canine Companion Challenge ................................................................................................... 47 Manufacturing Model .................................................................................................................. 53

Math Machines Challenge .......................................................................................................... 57 Swept Away! ................................................................................................................................ 58

Every attempt has been made to publish an accurate Contest Manual. However, updates and new information becomes available on a regular basis.

For the most current information and announcements, please refer to the contest web site:

www.nationalroboticschallenge.org

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OFFICIAL RULES AND REGULATIONS INTRODUCTION

The National Robotics Challenge began in 1986 as the Robotics International of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (RI/SME) Robotic Technology and Engineering Challenge (RI/SME-RTEC).

RI/SME-RTEC was developed under the guidance and inspiration of Tom Meravi, Associate Professor from Northern Michigan University and the late Dr. James Hannemann, co-chairman of the event. RI/SME-RTEC moved to Marion, Ohio in 2004 under the guidance of Ed Goodwin, Ritch Ramey and Tad Douce. In 2005 the contest was renamed the National Robotics Challenge. From this humble beginning, with two work cells and two pick and place competitions, the 2012 competition offers twelve exciting contest categories.

The National Robotics Challenge is designed to provide students of all ages and levels of study the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes, controls, robotics and other technologies through competitive engineering contests. Students are judged on their application of technology principles, engineering concepts and their ability to solve real-world problems through a team approach.

The National Robotics Challenge is designed to complement classroom instruction and provide students the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in challenging and fun situations. Each contest is specifically designed to test the students’ skills and knowledge in a particular area of manufacturing, technology, robotics and automation. The event is open to any student in elementary, middle school, high school, or post-secondary school anywhere in the world.

Last year nearly 1000 participants from 9 states competed in the NRC event. Our vision is to become the premier robotics competition for elementary, middle, high and post-secondary school students in the United States.

MISSON

The mission of the National Robotics Challenge is to provide educational robotics competitions where students can develop the creativity, engineering, problem solving and leadership skills they will need in the world of tomorrow.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The 2012 competition is Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 12, 13 & 14, 2012.

Registration costs: $40.00 per school plus $8.00 per robot Registration and entry fees must be received no later than Friday, February 10th, 2012. All of the registration will be completed online. The registration link will be available on the National Robotics Challenge website (www.nationalroboticschallenge.org) by Friday, December 16th, 2011.

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STAYING IN TOUCH The National Robotics Challenge committee has several online tools to facilitate communication between the NRC Committee, Advisors, Student and Parents. Yahoo Group:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NationalRobotsChallenge/

You can subscribe to the group by using the link above or by sending an email to: [email protected]

To join the Yahoo group you will need a Yahoo account. The account is free and can be created by following the instructions on the Yahoo site.

Ning Social Network:

robots.ning.com Ning is a private social network to facilitate interaction between participants, instructors and industry professionals. Membership is free. Please keep in mind that this site is for academic/professional use. Although we do not want to discourage interaction between participants we do ask that you keep the content of the discussions and posts appropriate for the site’s intent and mission.

Facebook:

Become a fan of the National Robotics Challenge on Facebook. Search for “The National Robotics Challenge”.

CONTEST MANUAL An updated version of the Contest Manual can be found on-line at the National Robotics Challenge website (www.nationalroboticschallenge.org) under the “Get the Contest Manual” navigation button. There are many changes from last year’s contest manual. Every attempt has been made to highlight these changes with (New for 2012). However, in order to ensure your team’s successful participation in this year’s event, please review the contents of this manual carefully. Check the website often; it is your source for current information, updates and changes.

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General Competition Information

A. Contest Categories

The National Robotics Challenge is composed of twelve fun and exciting contest categories. These educational activities are designed to provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of technology through a variety of contests. Each contest challenges student’s knowledge in a particular area of manufacturing, technology, robotics and automation. A robot may only be entered in one contest category per year.

B. Levels

Individual students and teams are invited to participate in the following divisions, based on the current academic level of the most senior team member: Junior: Elementary

A public, private or home school offering instruction less than middle school.

Level I: Middle School

A public, private or home-school offering instruction between and including grades six, seven and/or eight.

Level II: High School

A public, private or home-school offering instruction between and including grades nine, ten, eleven and/or twelve.

Level III: Post-Secondary

A public or private school offering instruction at less than the baccalaureate level or a public or private school offering programs at or beyond the baccalaureate level (included community college, technical institute and university undergraduate and graduate students.) Post-Secondary events: (New for 2012)

Manufacturing Model Manufacturing Robotic Work Cell Mini-Sumo Robot Rescue Robot Robot Construction Robo Hockey (two robots) Robot Maze Contest (Non-Tactile) Sumo Robot: HVY (Self Control 125 Lb Max) Swept Away!

C. Judging

All of the contests are ranked based on the criteria in this manual. Students are judged on their application of technological principles and concepts, and their ability to solve difficult problems through a team approach. During the judging for each contest, only the contest facilitator and judges/officials are permitted in the designated contest area. Instructors, team advisors, parents and additional competition attendees are prohibited from entering into the roped off area of the contest while judging is occurring. Concerns regarding, or objections to a judge’s ruling must be brought to the attention of the Director of Contest Judging or Director of Events at the time of the contest judging. For all contests and special awards, the decisions of the judge(s) are final and binding.

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D. Awards

Awards for each contest are presented on the following levels: Gold, Silver, and Bronze

Honda Innovation Award

This award will be presented to the team with the most creative/innovative design. The judging team will nominate one team from each category for this award. A panel of award judges will analyze each nominated team and then select a winner. Each team that was nominated will receive a plaque and the winning team will receive a trophy/plaque and a $500.00 check for their school.

E. Safety and Liability

The National Robotics Challenge organization, staff, committee, competition sponsors, competition facilitators and/or judges/officials may stop the operation of any contest or special award participant if it is determined that the operation of the entry is hazardous. Such stoppage may disqualify the participant from that portion of the competition. Each contestant is responsible for his/her own personal safety and safety equipment. Ohio TSA assumes no financial or organizational liability through its role as a sponsor of the National Robotics Challenge. The National Robotics Challenge, Ohio TSA and the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Marion, Ohio, shall hold harmless the other party from and against all claims, suits or actions or injury or damage arising from any intentional or negligent act of the party’s employees, agents, officers and/or authorized subcontractor(s) while performing duties needed for sponsoring this event.

F. Dress Code a. The National Robotics Challenge showcases outstanding entries, students, instructors,

programs, schools and sponsors. b. Our judges and sponsors come from diverse professional organizations and they expect

students to look and act like professionals. For this reason, we ask that you abide by the following dress code at this event:

i. All participants, advisors, and chaperones must wear a collared shirt and pants at all

times on the competition floor. ii. Teams are encouraged to develop a team shirt or uniform to wear during the event. iii. A team or National Robotics Challenge t-shirt may be substituted for a collared shirt. iv. The following attire is not permissible at the National Robotics Challenge

1. Jeans 2. Shorts 3. Cut-off pants 4. Torn clothing 5. Overly baggy clothes 6. Open toed shoes (safety concerns) 7. Soiled clothes 8. Hats

v. Any individual who does not adhere to the above dress code will be asked to comply or be disqualified from his/her event(s).

G. Accessibility

The National Robotics Challenge is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to persons with a disability to facilitate their full participation in the National Robotics Challenge events. Please contact Tad Douce at 740-361-6772 at least one month prior to the National Robotics Challenge should such accommodations be required.

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H. Financial Assistance

You should begin planning now to finance the cost of your participation and trip. The following are recommendations to obtain financial assistance:

Institutional Support Request support from your school or university. Your Faculty Advisor/Instructor can help determine if your institution can pay for a portion or all of your expenses. ASK YOUR FACULTY ADVISOR / INSTRUCTOR FOR HELP!

Fund Raisers Fundraisers are a good way to obtain the funds required to finance your trip. Students and communities are willing to “pitch-in” for a good cause. What is your cause? A challenging, educational experience that helps prepare you for your manufacturing future, and a chance to represent your school. Some ideas include: donut, bagel, bake or candy sales, car washes, community yard service, snow shoveling, lawn raking, senior citizen services, selling popcorn/candy at school sporting events, etc.

Local Service Organizations and Government Agencies Check with your Faculty Advisor / Instructor to determine whether any community organizations, state or Federal government agencies, such as NASA, a local foundation, or service organization would be willing to donate a portion of the needed funds.

Local Companies Is there a local manufacturing company that may be interested in sponsoring your trip? Perhaps they are willing to donate some of the needed equipment. Check with your Faculty Advisor for contact names.

Robotics Manufacturers Robotic Manufacturers are excellent contacts, which are often more than willing to get involved in a project of this type. Your Faculty Advisor/Instructor can provide a list of contacts.

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Dr. James Hannemann Leadership and Service Award

James W. Hannemann Ph.D. (1937 – 2001)

Working behind the scenes, Dr. Hannemann volunteered his time and talents tirelessly for fifteen years helping the Robotic Competition grow, expand and develop into the competition it is today. From its humble beginnings in 1986, with two work cell and two pick and place competitions, the current competition will offer contests for elementary to post-secondary students in a wide range of categories. Dr. Hannemann obtained his BS degree in Agricultural Education from South Dakota State University, an MS in Agriculture from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Secondary Curriculum from Michigan State University. He worked as a Vocational Education Consultant for Oakland Intermediate School District (Michigan) from 1968 to 2000 when he retired. Dr. Hannemann

served many schools, teachers and students and he loved his work. He took joy in experience and discovery – of places, foods, music, ideas and most importantly, people. He was an active member of the FFA, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the Automotive Industry Planning Council, VPAC, and ACTE. In 1999 he received the Presidents Award for outstanding service to ACTE. In recognition of Dr. Hannemann’s years of service to the RI/SME Student Robotic Competition, now the National Robotics Challenge, and to the thousands of students he touched, the National Robotics Challenge has established the Dr. James Hannemann Leadership and Service Award. This award will be given annually at the National Robotics Challenge awards ceremony.

2011 Dr. James Hannemann Leadership and Service Award Recipient The directors of the National Robotics Challenge are pleased to announce that the 4th annual Dr. James Hanneman Leadership and Service Award was awarded to the Associates of Honda. This award honors and recognizes individuals and organizations who have shown outstanding support for engineering and technology programs at the middle school, secondary and post secondary level and who have supported the continued growth of the National Robotics Challenge. The Associates of Honda have been a continual inspiration to the National Robotics Challenge and it’s development over the last four years. Since the N.R.C. committee first approached Honda about the event and a potential partnership Honda has continued to increase their participation in the event. From the beginning with just a few associates and a booth to their current presence, that includes financial sponsorship, a booth display, a team of associates to participate as judges and even public relations assistance, they have truly backed this event. Honda’s involvement in the National Robotics Challenge is one of the main reasons that this event has increased both in participation and quality. One of the most impressive aspects of Honda’s involvement has been their continued commitment to the event. When the automotive industry was suffering financially a Honda associate was asked at an event if they would still be able to assist with the N.R.C. they responded, “We plan to continue as an industry leader twenty years from now. If we are going to lead we need today’s students to be at their best. Investing in students is investing in our future success.” This type of attitude toward business is the reason Honda has had their success and the reason Dr. Hannemann started the N.R.C. in 1986. The National Robotics Challenge is proud to have Honda as the 2011 recipient of the Dr. James Hanneman Leadership and Service Award. We are looking forward to a continued partnership as we work together to inspire the next generation of engineers and technicians.

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Parent/Student Authorization Form

National Robotics Challenge Authorization Form – 2012 CONSENT, RELEASE, HOLD HARMLESS AND AUTHORIZATION TO REPRODUCE PHYSICAL LIKENESS

This form is required of all minors and adults who attend the National Robotics Challenge (NRC). Copies of this

completed form are to be retained and kept on file by minor’s parents, advisors and/or school administration. It is the responsibility of the advisor to make sure there is a completed form for each participant and to give a copy to the school administrator if necessary. The National Robotics Challenge reserves the right to request a completed copy of this form at any time from the chapter advisor or state advisor. Do not send this form to the National Robotics Challenge office. As used below, NRC shall mean the National Robotics Challenge and its officers, directors, employees, assigns, and agents (including any third party designated and approved by the NRC) at any time, including, without limitation, individuals or entities involved in print, publication, television, broadcast, or video media. As used below, “Participant” shall mean any individual, student, advisor, teacher, or volunteer involved in an NRC activity. The participation in any NRC contest, program, meeting or conference (collectively, the “Event”), agrees to the following:

I hereby grant to the NRC the right to photograph and/or videotape me (my child) during my participation in an Event. I further grant to the NRC, forever and throughout the world, the right to use these photographs and videotapes of my likeness, voice and sounds during my participation, and to reuse or license the right to such photographs and videotapes of my participation, and my name, likeness and biography, as the NRC may desire, in all media and in all forms and for all purposes, including without limitation, advertising and other promotions for the NRC, without further compensation to me or any limitation whatsoever. In granting this license, I understand that the NRC is not under any obligation to exercise any of their rights, licenses and privileges herein granted. Each such photograph and videotape shall be a work for hire and the NRC shall be deemed the owner of any copyright and/or trademark rights therein (and all applications, registrations and renewals resulting there from). If, however, the work is deemed not to be a work made for hire by a court of competent jurisdiction, then this Consent and Release to Produce Physical Likeness (“Release”) shall constitute an irrevocable assignment by the Participant of the worldwide copyright in the work to the NRC. It is an NRC policy not to print a minor’s picture accompanied by his/her name unless the NRC has obtained specific permission from his/her parent or guardian.

The undersigned being fully cognizant of the risks in participating in an Event, hereby assumes the risks of bodily injury (including, without limitation, death) and property damage, inherent in such participation. Exception to the extent due to the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the NRC, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable laws, I hereby waive any claims or causes of action which I may now or forever have against the NRC arising out of my participation, and I will indemnify and hold harmless the NRC against any and all claims resulting from such participation.

I hereby release the NRC and its respective successors, affiliates, licensees and assigns from all claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses (including, without limitation, attorney’s and other professional fees and expenses) that I may now or ever have against the NRC arising in connection with my participation in the Event and the NRC’s exercise of rights hereby granted, including, without limitation, claims for compensation, defamation, or invasion of privacy, or other infringements or violations of personal or property rights of any sort. In the event I should sustain injuries or illness while involved in an Event, I hereby authorize the NRC to administer, or cause to be administered, such first aid or other treatment and medications I may bring as may be necessary under the circumstances, to include treatment by a physician or hospital of the NRC’s choice.

This Release shall be binding upon my heirs, personal representatives and assigns, and me and shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Ohio without regard to conflicts of laws principles. Venue for any legal action arising out of or in connection with this Release shall be in Marion County, Ohio. This release constitutes the entire agreement among the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter of this Release and supersedes any and all previous agreements among the parties, whether written or oral, with respect to such subject matter. I understand that this form involves a release of legal rights. A parent or guardian agrees to all of these terms on behalf of a minor.

Participant’s Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Participant’s Signature __________________________________________________________________________________________________

School _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Home address___________________________________________ City_____________________________ State __________ Zip ___________

Allergies______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Current Medication_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

History of heart condition, diabetes, asthma, etc. ______________________________________________________________________________

Physician’s name and telephone___________________________________________________________________________________________

Insurance company and policy number______________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Name ________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian of Minor Participant _____________________________________________________________________________

Minor’s Age _________

Parent’s Phone _________________________(h)____________________________ (c) Email_________________________________________

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Project Report Guideline

(Project Reports are only required for Manufacturing Workcell, Manufacturing Model, Rescue Robot and Robot Construction.)

The National Robotics Challenge is composed of twelve exciting and challenging contests designed to complement current manufacturing and engineering classroom curriculum. Please refer to contest rules for the specific requirements of your report. In addition, the following format must be used:

Title Page: o Name of Project, Name of School, Name of Instructor / Advisor, Students and

Division of Entry.

Report: o Narrative description of project

Maximum of 5 pages in length containing the information listed in the rules for each individual contest.

o Prints of cell or logic Maximum of 4 pages in length and no larger than 11” x 17” folded once.

Report Submission: o Each team is to submit two (2) copies of a Descriptive Report at registration on

April 12, 2012 or send via mail, post-marked by April 2, 2012.

Tad Douce National Robotics Challenge 3359 Martel Rd. Caledonia, OH 43314

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Sumo Robot Remote-Controlled - Middle School, High School

Self-Controlled - Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary Contest Description

The Sumo Robot Contest requires a student team to build a self-propelled, remote controlled or sensing robot, designed to force another Sumo Robot outside a ring. The competition ring will be a square painted flat black, measuring 15’ 2” across. This inside square is surrounded by a two-inch (2”) wide, painted or taped, flat white ring. Another white one-inch (1”) wide, line will surround the inner ring with 2 inches (2”) between them. When any part of the Sumo crosses completely over the 1” white outer ring it will lose the heat.

Rules

1. The Sumo must be powered by electrical storage batteries. No other power sources will be allowed. These batteries must be sealed and all possible precautions must be incorporated into the design to prevent accidental spills. The judges may disqualify any design that is determined to be unsafe.

2. The Sumo must use sensing devices to govern the motion of the Sumo and must use sensors to either detect other Sumo and/or the edge of the white line. (The remote-controlled lightweight robots do not require sensors.)

3. (New for 2012) The Sumo Robot must fit inside a 24” x 24” x 24” space. Any robot entered that does not meet the size requirement by the end of the device evaluation or expands beyond that size during competition will be disqualified. Device evaluation will take place at the time indicated on the Official Schedule

4. The Sumo drive wheels must be non-destructive to the playing surface.

5. Any robot that is deemed too dangerous to other robots or competitors will be disqualified. 6. The contest has two sections: (1) Lightweight section in which the Sumo must be remote

controlled and cannot exceed 50 pounds and (2) Heavyweight section in which the Sumo must be self controlled and cannot exceed 125 pounds. Each robot may only enter one section.

7. Weight may not be added after the Sumo has been weighed and evaluated by the judges. 8. Double elimination contests will decide the winner of each section. 9. At the beginning of each competition, with the robot deactivated, the Sumo handler(s) will

position their Sumo one foot apart as instructed by the judges. Four start configurations will be possible:

At the command of the judge/facilitator, the handler(s) will activate their robot. 10. (New for 2012) All robots must have a visible RED locking emergency stop button on top of the

robot in case of a malfunction. 11. All lightweight entries must have with the ability to change between at least 2 different

frequencies. We recommend that teams invest in 2.4 GHz radios and receivers such as Futaba’s FASST system. (http://2.4gigahertz.com)

12. When any part of one Sumo completely crosses the outer white line, the other Sumo is

declared the winner of that engagement. 13. If both Sumos leave the ring at the same time, a "non-contest" is declared and the two Sumos

are repositioned and the contest begins anew. 14. If, after three minutes, no winner is declared, the two Sumos are repositioned and the contest

begins anew. If no winner is declared after this second encounter, the judges shall declare a winner based on action observed within the ring and on the design of the selected Sumo.

15. A pit area, with access to 110-volt standard outlet, will be provided. 16. (New for 2012) At the conclusion of each match the winning robot must be weighed to ensure

that legal weight has been maintained.

17. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

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Sumo Ring Details

Isometric View of the Sumo Competition Ring

Close-up detail of the lines with dimensions

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Pre-Competition Device Evaluation/Interviews Sumo Robot

EVENT: Sumo Robot _____ Remote Controlled < 50 Pounds

_____ Self Controlled < 125 Pounds

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary(HWT Only) SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Criteria

Sumo Weight

Weight Size Requirements (See above for requirements)

Weight =

Sumo Requirements

Size Requirements

(maximum 24” x 24” x 24”)

RED locking emergency stop button on top of the

robot

Check if the requirement has been met. _____________ _____________

Entries not meeting any of the above criteria must be brought

into compliance before being allowed to compete.

Judge’s Comments: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Judge’s Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________

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Mini-Sumo Robot

Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Contest Description

The Mini-Sumo Robot Contest requires a student team to build a self-propelled, self-controlled, sensing robot, designed to force another Sumo Robot outside a four (4) foot diameter circle. The competition circle will be a flat black, 3’ 6” in diameter, surrounded by a one-inch (1”) wide, painted or taped, flat white ring. Another white one-inch (1”) wide, ring will surround the inner ring with one inch (1”) between them. When any part of the Sumo touches or crosses over the 1” white outer ring it will lose the heat.

Rules

1. The Sumo must be powered by electrical storage batteries. No other power sources will be allowed. These batteries must be sealed and all possible precautions must be incorporated into design to prevent accidental spills. The judges may disqualify any design that is determined to be unsafe.

2. The Sumo must use sensing devices to govern the motion of the Sumo and must use sensors to detect the other Sumo and/or the edge of the white circle.

3. Sumos cannot exceed 3 Kilograms in weight. 4. (New for 2012) Sumos cannot exceed a maximum size of 20cm x 20cm x 20cm. Any

robot entered that does not meet the size requirement by the end of the device evaluation or expands beyond that size during competition will be disqualified. Device evaluation will take place at the time indicated on the Official Schedule.

5. The Sumo drive wheels must be non-destructive to the playing surface. 6. The Sumo may not have a remote off/on switch. 7. Double elimination contests will decide the winner of the contest. 8. At the beginning of each competition, with the power switch in the “off” position, the

Sumo handler(s) will position their Sumo as instructed by the judges. Four start configurations will be possible:

At the command of the judge/facilitator, the handler(s) will turn the power switch to the "on" position.

9. When one Sumo causes any part of the other Sumo to go past the outer white circle,

that Sumo is declared the winner of that engagement. 10. If both Sumos leave the circle at the same time, a "non-contest" is declared and the two

Sumos are repositioned and the contest begins anew. 11. If, after three minutes, no winner is declared, the two Sumos are repositioned and the

contest begins anew. If no winner is declared after this second encounter, the judges shall declare a winner based on action observed within the circle and on the design of the selected Sumo.

12. A pit area, with access to 110-volt standard outlet, will be provided. 13. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

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Pre-Competition Device Evaluation/Interviews Mini-Sumo Robot

EVENT: Mini-Sumo Robot

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Criteria

Sumo Weight

Weight Size Requirements (Maximum 3 Kg)

Weight =

Sumo Measurements

Size Requirements (maximum 20cm x 20cm x 20cm )

Check if within size requirements _____________

Elimination Heats will be held at the time published on the Official Schedule

Entries not meeting any of the above criteria must be brought into compliance before being allowed to compete.


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Manufacturing Robotic Work Cell Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Contest Description

In the Manufacturing Robotic Work Cell contest, the participants design, construct, and operate a robotic system that performs one or more manufacturing processes. The manufacturing work cell shall include operations that demonstrate both fundamental and advanced robotic applications.

Rules

Each manufacturing work cell shall include: 1. One or more robots meeting the RI/SME definition of a robot. (See definition below) 2. Mechanical devices such as transfer and clamping devices. 3. Electronic controlling device(s) such as computers or PLC's. 4. Each manufacturing work cell must fit within an 8’ x 8' footprint. Each school is

permitted to enter a maximum of three work cells. 5. The team will be allocated ten (10) minutes to demonstrate the operation of the work

cell and ten (10) minutes for a discussion with the judging team. 6. A written report is required for this contest. Each team is to submit two (2) copies of a

Descriptive Report at registration on April 12, 2012 or send via mail, post-marked by April 2, 2012. If the reports meet the published criteria they are eligible for bonus points. Reports received after this date will not be eligible for bonus points. Please refer to the Project Report Guidelines on page 12 of the Contest Manual for additional information. The report must include:

a. A statement of the manufacturing task being demonstrated b. The design drawing(s) of the cell c. The design procedures d. A description of safety precautions considered for the design, building and

operation. e. Component list indicating items designed and produced by the team and stock

components. 7. All items manufactured by students must be marked with a red dot. 8. The following will be provided if the Director of Events is notified two weeks before the

date of the competition.

One 110-volt standard outlet, 20 AMP, single phase, 60-cycle quad box ONLY

One 100 - PSI compressed air hose, ¼” male quick disconnect ONLY 9. If air is required, the school must supply their own air filter for their entry.

10. Decisions of the judges are final and binding. Definition of a Robot: "A robot is a re-programmable, automatically-controlled, multi-functional mechanism which can be integrated into a system and interact with its environment by acquiring and processing sensory data to perform various tasks." Definition provided by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)

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FINAL EVENT - Manufacturing Robotic Workcell Rubric and Evaluation Criteria

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FINAL EVENT - Manufacturing Robotic Workcell EVENT: Manufacturing Robotic Workcell

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Descriptive Report Evaluation – Bonus Points

Criteria Bonus Points Points Awarded

Report received on time 25

Report in proper format 25

1. Total points awarded 2. Evaluation Form

Judging Criteria

Expert Proficient Emergent Novice Points

Awarded

Creating Viable Solutions to a Variety of Human Wants, Needs, and Challenges.

50 40 30 20

Simple and Complex Systems 50 40 30 20

Design Process (scientific method, technological problem solving process, etc.)

50 40 30 20

Utilization of Resources: (Tools/Machines, Materials, Information, People, Capital, Energy, & Time)

50 40 30 20

Programming (Autonomous) 50 40 30 20

Control Systems 50 40 30 20

Electrical Systems 50 40 30 20

Mechanical Systems 50 40 30 20

Communication (written and oral) 50 40 30 20

Teamwork 50 40 30 20

Ethics in Decision-Making 50 40 30 20 Total points available 550

2. Total points awarded

3. Final Scoring Totals

Total Points from Evaluation Form (from #2)

Plus Bonus Points (from #1)

Final Score


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Pick and Place Programming Computer Assisted or Teach Pendant

Middle School, High School Contest Description

In the Pick and Place Programming Contest, the team is required to pick and place designated objects. There are two sections: computer assisted -where the team is required to program the robot to pick/place the designated objects or teach pendant -where the team is required to manually, either by teach pendant or computer pendant, pick and place the designated objects.

Rules

1. The team will be required to pick and place objects using a programmable robotic arm. 2. Scoring will be based on programming time, "run" time and accuracy of the placement

of the designated objects. 3. The robot is expected to start from a designated "home" position and return to the

"home" position. 4. Each team is to supply a tabletop robot, computer and power strip. 5. The footprint will be provided at the competition.

o An example Pick and Place Contest Footprint is pictured on the next page. The example footprint is available for purchase from DEPCO, Inc. To place an order contact Rob Smith at: [email protected]

o A dimensioned drawing of the footprint is available on the contest web site, www.nationalroboticschallenge.org.

6. The decisions of the judges are final and binding.

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EXAMPLE - Pick and Place Programming

SAMPLE Starting Position

______________________________________________________________________________

Ending Position

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FINAL EVENT - Pick and Place Programming EVENT: Pick and Place Programming _____ Computer Assisted _____ Teach Pendant

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________

CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Programming and Automatic Sequence Phase Timing

Programming Time Total Time

(in minutes)

Start time: End time: Automatic Sequence Time

+

Start time: End time:

Subtotal Programming Time + Sequencing Time

Time Subtotal 2. Accuracy of Placement

Accuracy of Placement Total

Number of objects positioned outside of designated placement footprint

Penalty time X 10 minutes

Accuracy Subtotal

3. Final Scoring Totals (Note, lower scores are better than higher scores)

Final Score Totals

Subtotal Time (from #1)

Subtotal Accuracy (from #2)

FINAL SCORE


25

Robot Construction Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Contest Description

In the Robot Construction Contest, students select a task for a robot to perform and then design, build, and demonstrate that the robot can perform the selected task. It is not the intent of this contest to design and build a manufacturing work cell.

Rules

1. The actual robot must be built from scratch, not a modification of a commercially available robot.

2. Commercially available components or specially constructed components are acceptable for use in the building of the robot.

3. The demonstration of the robot's capabilities cannot exceed 10 minutes, with an extra 10 minutes for questions from the judges.

4. The robot and its components must fit and function within an 8’ x 8’ footprint. 5. Scoring is based upon uniqueness of the task, quality of the design, functionality of the

task, operation of the robot, workmanship, safety design and considerations, and the final descriptive report.

11. A written report is required for this contest. Each team is to submit two (2) copies of a Descriptive Report at registration on April 12, 2012 or send via mail, post-marked by April 2, 2012. If the reports meet the published criteria they are eligible for bonus points. Reports received after this date will not be eligible for bonus points. Please refer to the Project Report Guidelines on page 12 of the Contest Manual for additional information. The report must include:

f. A statement of the manufacturing task being demonstrated g. The design drawing(s) of the cell h. The design procedures i. A description of safety precautions considered for the design, building and

operation. j. Component list indicating items designed and produced by the team and stock





26

FINAL EVENT - Robot Construction Rubric and Evaluation Criteria

27

FINAL EVENT - Robot Construction EVENT: Robot Construction

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Descriptive Report Evaluation – Bonus Points





2. Evaluation Form

Judging Criteria

Expert Proficient Emergent Novice Points Awarded

Creating Viable Solutions to a Variety of Human Wants, Needs, and Challenges.

50 40 30 20

Simple and Complex Systems 50 40 30 20

Design Process (scientific method, technological problem solving process, etc.)

50 40 30 20

Utilization of Resources: (Tools/Machines, Materials, Information, People, Capital, Energy, & Time)

50 40 30 20

Programming (Autonomous) 50 40 30 20

Control Systems 50 40 30 20

Electrical Systems 50 40 30 20

Mechanical Systems 50 40 30 20

Communication (written and oral) 50 40 30 20

Teamwork 50 40 30 20

Ethics in Decision-Making 50 40 30 20

Total points available 550 2. Total points awarded



Plus Bonus Points (from #1) Final Score


28

Robot Maze Contest Non-Tactile - Elementary, Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Tactile - Elementary, Middle School, High School

Contest Description

In the Robot Maze Contest, students use a tactile or non-tactile robot to navigate a right/left turn maze.

Rules

1. Two types of robots may compete in the contest: a. Tactile-sensor type, meaning that the robot must contact the walls while navigating

the maze. b. A non-tactile sensor type, meaning the robot cannot physically contact the wall while

navigating the maze. 2. Two types of mazes will be used for the contest:

a. A single level right and left turn maze will be used for Elementary and Middle School entries.

b. A two level maze will be used for High School and Post-Secondary entries. 3. Any type of commercially available or student-fabricated robot is eligible. Umbilical cords

and wireless control devices will not be allowed. A listing of companies who sell maze

robot kits is available at: www.nationalroboticschallenge.org. 4. The maximum physical size of the robot shall not exceed 10" x 10" x 7" high. For each one-

half inch (1/2") that exceeds the maximum limitation, five (5) seconds will be added to the mouse's elapsed time. Note: The maze runways are a minimum of fourteen inches (15") wide and seven inches (7") high. Device evaluation will take place at the time indicated on the Official Schedule.

5. Each robot is allowed three (3) runs with the best time being considered the official time. 6. A blueprint of the maze listing the exact dimensions is on the next page. 7. Scoring is based on the following:

a. The shortest elapsed time for completion of the maze from starting line to finish line will be used to determine the winner in each division. The time will start when the front of the mouse crosses the start line and will stop when the robot completely crosses the finish line.

b. In the event of a tie for first place, each team will be allowed two additional runs. The team with the best time is the winner and the other team is awarded second place.

c. If the results of the second run are also a tie, contestants will be asked to make an oral presentation showing the logic used to develop the robot and how the robot uses information received by the sensors to determine the path through the maze.

8. In the case of a non-tactile maze robot, any contact with the walls will result in a 20 second penalty.

9. A pit area, with access to 110-volt standard outlet, will be provided. 10. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

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Robot Maze

Elementary / Middle School Isometric View of the Complete Maze

______________________________________________________________________________

Maze Section 1

(1 Required)

30

Maze Section 2 (1 Required)

______________________________________________________________________________


31

Robot Maze

High School / Post-Secondary

Isometric View of the Complete Maze

Top View of Complete Maze

START

END R

A M P

RAMP

32


33


34


35

Ramp (2 Required)

36

FINAL EVENT - Robot Maze Contest EVENT: Robot Maze Contest _____ Tactile _____ Non-Tactile

LEVEL: _____ Elementary _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________

1. Penalty for Oversize

Criteria

Size requirement 10”x10”x7” high

Measure and indicate if it exceeds size requirement by number of one-half inches (1/2”)

Total

Number of one-half inches (1/2”) entry exceeds size requirement

Penalty Seconds x 5

1. Total Penalty Seconds for Oversize To Add to Elapsed Run Time

2. Time required to complete course (in seconds):

Best time out of 3 runs will be the official time

First Run Subtotal

Time required to complete course

(Non-tactile ONLY) # Contacts with walls _________ X 20 seconds =

Total Time for First Run

Second Run Subtotal

Time required to complete course

(Non-tactile ONLY) # Contacts with walls _________ X 20 seconds =

Total Time for Second Run

Third Run Subtotal

Time required to complete course (Non-tactile ONLY) # Contacts with walls _________ X 20 seconds =

Total Time for Third Run

Best Run (From Run 1, 2, or 3) Total

2. Time required to complete course

3. Final Scoring Totals (Note, lower scores are better than higher scores)

Total Points

Penalty for Oversize (if any) (from #1)

Best Time in Seconds (from #2)

FINAL SCORE


37

Rescue Robot (formerly Top of the Hill) (Redesigned for 2012)

Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary Contest Description

In the Rescue Robot contest, the participants build a remote controlled vehicle able to operate within a 18-foot long and 10-foot wide playing field. The vehicle is to travel the field and pick up four colored ping-pong balls from four holding devices (pick pylons) locations and place them into a receiving jig (drop pylons). The event is intended to simulate the environment that a robot might be required to navigate in the event of a building collapse. One team from the Rescue Robot event will be selected to work with the Air Force Research Laboratory and a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emergency response team to further develop their design into an autonomous/semi-autonomous rescue robot prototype. The selected team will receive additional funding to purchase the materials needed to develop the prototype.

Rules 1. Each remote controlled vehicle (RCV) must be designed and constructed by the

student(s). 2. Out-of-Box RCV's are not allowed, however, out-of-box RCV's may be dismantled and

components used to construct a modified RCV, maximum out-of-box content shall be 40%.

3. The RCV shall not exceed 18" in width, 18" in length and 10” in height at the beginning of each match. Vehicles outside the size criteria must be brought into compliance before being allowed to compete. Once the match has begun the RCV can expand beyond the beginning size. Device evaluation will take place at the time indicated on the Official Schedule.

4. Each vehicle must have the ability to change between at least 2 different frequencies. Consider investing in a 2.4 GHz system such as Futaba’s FASST system. (http://2.4gigahertz.com)

5. Double elimination contests will decide the winner of the contest. 6. At the beginning of the match the judge will flip a coin to determine which color ping

pong ball each robot will retrieve. There are four (4) pick pylons for each robot, one set of black and one of white. There will be two drop pylons, one black and one white that the team must place their color ball into.

7. The starting line for the RCV shall be 24" from the corner of the playing field. 8. ONE team member will be the designated operator during the timed evaluation. Once

the match has begun only the designated operator and/or the judge(s) may contact the vehicle, controller, and any part of the vehicle or playing surface.

9. The robot should incorporate some type of imaging sensor or camera that can wirelessly transmit visual data to the operator for navigation inside the “cave”.

10. If a ping-pong ball is dropped inside the playing field the robot can retrieve it and continue play.

11. If a ping-pong ball is dropped outside of the playing field the judge will return it to its original holding device.

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12. If a vehicle becomes immobilized for any reason, the designated operator may ask a judge to return the vehicle to the start position. If the vehicle is in the process of moving a ball, that ball must be returned to the holding device that it originated from. There will be no penalty other than having to begin from the start position.

13. Each match will be 3 minutes in length. If one team retrieves all four ping-pong balls of their designated color the match ends and they are declared the winner.

14. If at the end of 3 minutes both teams have the same number of ping-pong balls in the receiving jigs then both robots are returned to the starting position for a sudden death match. The first team to deposit one of their ping-pong balls in a receiving jig is the winner.

15. At the start of judging for this competition, all teams must turn in their controller to the judges. If any member of a team removes and operates their controller thereby interfering with another robot they will be disqualified from the competition.

16. A pit area, with access to 110-volt standard outlet, will be provided. 17. A written report is required for this contest. Each team is to submit two (2) copies of a

Descriptive Report at registration on April 12, 2012 or send via mail, post-marked by April 2, 2012. If a report is not provided the entry is not eligible for any special awards. Please refer to the Project Report Guidelines on page 12 of the Contest Manual for additional information. The report must include:

a. A statement of the manufacturing task being demonstrated b. The design drawing(s) of the cell c. The design procedures d. A description of safety precautions considered for the design, building and

operation. e. Component list indicating items designed and produced by the team and stock

components. 18. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

39

Pick Pylon – Rescue Robot

Notes: Height of pylons will be 4 inches off of the base surface. Pylons will be filled with dry sand to provide some mass for stability.

Drop Pylon – Rescue Robot

Notes: Two pylons will be filled with dry sand for mass and stability. Pylon is 4 inches high.

40

Rescue Robot Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Cave

41


Gravel Pit

Beam

42


Top View of Competition Field

Pick Pylon inside “cave”

Pick Pylon inside “cave”

43

Pre-Competition Device Evaluation/Interviews – Rescue Robot

EVENT: Top of the Hill

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Descriptive Report Evaluation

Criteria

Report received ____Yes ____No

2. Judging Criteria

Rescue Robot

(Maximum out-of-box content is 40%) Check if the requirement has been met. _________

Size Requirements

(maximum)

18" wide 18" long 10” high

Check if the requirement has been met. _________


into compliance before being allowed to compete.


44

Robo Hockey Remote-Controlled


The Robo Hockey contest requires a student team to build two remote controlled robots that will compete in a simulated hockey event against two robotic opponents. The team that scores the most goals in a three minute match wins. The event is held in a double elimination format tournament.

Rules

1. The robot must be powered by electrical storage batteries. No other power sources will be allowed. These batteries must be sealed and all possible precautions must be incorporated into the design to prevent accidental spills.

2. Each robot must be radio-controlled with the ability to change between at least 2 different frequencies. We recommend that teams invest in 2.4 GHz radios and receivers such as Futaba’s FASST system. (http://2.4gigahertz.com)

3. (New for 2012) The robot must fit inside a 12” x 12” x 12” space cannot exceed 15 pounds.

Any robot entered that does not meet the size requirement by the end of the device evaluation or expands beyond that size during competition will be disqualified. Device evaluation will take place at the time indicated on the Official Schedule

4. The robot drive wheels must be non-destructive to the playing surface. 5. This event is a full contact sport. Robots may suffer damage due to the rough nature of the

match. In the event that both robots on a team are damaged beyond repair the team must forfeit the match. (New for 2012)

6. Any robot that is deemed too dangerous to the hockey field, judges or spectators by the NRC staff or judges will be disqualified. (New for 2012).

7. At the conclusion of each match the winning robot must be weighed to ensure that legal weight has been maintained. (New for 2012)

8. Robots may have a maximum speed of 1 foot per second. (New for 2012) 9. Double elimination contests will decide the winner. 10. At the beginning of each competition the robot handler(s) will position their robot on the playing

surface. Each robot will start in one of the four corners of the playing surface. At the command of the judge/facilitator, the handler(s) will begin the contest.

11. Each robot may have a maximum storage of 200 PSI and a maximum kinetic PSI of 100 12. A robot may not at any time enclose more than 50% of the hockey puck (sides or top) 13. A robot may never intentionally lift the hockey puck. 14. Each match will be three minutes in duration. Time will stop on a penalty or score and restart

on the referees’ direction. 15. A team is automatically declared the winner if they score eight goals more than the opposing

team. 16. In the event of a tied score at the end of time the match will be decided by a sudden death

playoff. First team to score a goal wins. 17. Matches will use a Franklin NHL Roll-A-Puck Street/Roller Hockey Puck. 18. At the beginning of the match the hockey puck will be placed in center of the playing surface. 19. Each robot must have an actuator that can “shoot” the puck when the robot is in a stationary

position. 20. A point will only be scored if the puck was shot outside of the goal’s perimeter. 21. No robot is allowed inside either team’s goal perimeter. 22. In the case of tie the puck will be place at the center of the playing surface and the robots will

return to the starting position. On the judges mark the match will be decided in a sudden death match. The first goal scored wins.

23. A pit area, with access to 110-volt standard outlet, will be provided 24. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

45

Penalties:

1. If a team gets two penalties, their opponent scores one point. (New for 2012)

Grounds for a Penalty: a. Intentionally going within a goal perimeter

Arena Specifications:

Top View of the Arena

START START

START START

PUCK

GOAL GOAL

46

Pre-Competition Device Evaluation/Interviews Robo Hockey

EVENT: Robo Hockey - Remote Controlled < 15 Pounds

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Criteria

Robot Weight Robot 1 Robot 2

Weight Requirements (See above for requirements) Weight = Weight =

Robot Requirements Check if the requirement has been met.

Size Requirements

(maximum 12” x 12” x 12”) Energy Storage Requirements maximum storage of 200 PSI maximum kinetic PSI of 100

_____________ _____________

_____________

_____________ _____________

_____________


into compliance before being allowed to compete. Judge’s Comments: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Judge’s Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________

47

Canine Companion Challenge

Self-Controlled Elementary, Middle School, High School

Contest Description

The Canine Companion Challenge contest challenges the student teams to design, construct, program and operate a battery powered robot for use in an pet care simulation. The team will be given tasks to complete to simulate tasks that might be required of a real pet care robot.

Rules 1. Only two team members at a time are allowed at the playing field while the Robot is on

a task attempt. To share in participation, members may switch out with each other between attempts.

2. The team steps up to the playing field and has at least one minute to perform any

needed setup routines. The Judge starts the Match, and the team performs task attempts for 2-1/2 minutes. More Matches run until every team has competed once, and this process is known as a Round. There are at least 3 Rounds in the contest. After each Match, teams may go to the pit and fix or adjust the Robot.

3. To avoid erased programs: Downloading is only allowed in the pit area, download

settings must be kept on short range, the process must be shielded from surrounding teams, and the Microcontroller should be kept OFF when not in use.

4. The Robot is defined as the Microcontroller, NXT or RCX and anything connected to it

in any way, including any loose objects being held, manipulated, or moved.

5. The Robot must be programmed using programming software. (i.e. LEGO MINDSTORMS Robotics Invention System, RoboLab, Pbasic, C, etc.)

6. Base is the volume enclosed by the thick black base lines (see the Canine Companion

playing field diagram) and inside Border Walls.

7. Before the match, between task attempts, and only while the Robot is completely inside the base area, the team may package objects, aim the Robot, repair it, load or unload it, add or remove parts, switch programs, and reset mechanisms.

48

8. All task attempts must start with the Robot completely in Base as shown in the Robot

Position diagram in position A, with the Robot turned on but all programs turned off. The Robot must start from within the base lines. This starting technique applies during the whole Match, not just at the beginning.

9. Jigs or other alignment devices may be used to help aim the Robot in starting position and they must stay completely in Base.

10. While on a task attempt, the Robot is to be controlled only by its program, its motors,

and its interaction with the field, and not by interaction of any kind with the team. Remote control of any kind is not allowed, and the signaling of sensors in any way is not allowed.

11. A task attempt is started when the team starts a program. Delaying or causing the

release of stored energy in any form by hand is not allowed. This starting technique applies during the whole Match, not just at the beginning.

12. A task attempt is an effort by the Robot to accomplish one or more of the given tasks.

Tasks can be attempted in any order, re-attempted whenever possible, or not attempted at all.

13. The Robot is understood to be on a task attempt starting from the instant a program is

initiated. The next time the team controls or interacts with the Robot in any way (touching/carrying is most common), it is a signal that the Robot is failing or can no longer continue on its own, and the current task attempt is immediately terminated. The team must then bring the Robot by hand to Starting Position for the next task attempt. Any changes to the playing field after the instant the team interacts with the Robot are invalid, and are reversed by the referee.

25. Points for moving an object are awarded only if the object is completely in scoring

position as specified in the task, no matter where the Robot is, and no matter whether the object is packaged, palletized, or bound/connected to other objects. (New for 2012)

14. If an object being moved is NOT held by or linked to the Robot when a task attempt is

terminated, the object stays where it is on the field. If an object IS held by or linked to the Robot when a task attempt is terminated, there are two possibilities: 1) Objects that originated in Base are kept by the team for another task attempt. 2) Objects that did not originate in Base are taken off the playing field by the referee (and do not score). This rule applies to all objects, including scoring objects, projectiles, props, tools, and agents of any kind.

49

15. Objects in the way of future task attempts can be removed from the field by the referee upon request unless doing so would have a direct effect on scoring.

16. Refer to the Robot Position diagram. If a task attempt is terminated while all functional

parts of the Robot are completely out of Base as shown in positions F and G, the team must bring the Robot by hand to Starting Position for the next task attempt. Because of this action, one Bonus Object is removed from the field and does not score, but accomplishments made during the Mission Attempt are retained. Mission Attempts terminated in positions A through E do not result in Bonus Loss, and there is no loss if the Robot happens to be out of Base when the Match ends.

17. At any time during the match, the team may recover Robot parts that come off as an

obvious result of damage or disintegration. The team may do this by hand or request help from the referee.

18. The team may not touch Task Models outside of Base. If they are damaged or

otherwise disturbed between Task Attempts or by anything but valid Robot action, the referee restores them as soon as possible. If it is obvious to the referee that Task Model damage is part of team strategy, no points are awarded for related tasks, and the model may be removed for the rest of the match.

19. To minimize controversy about what happened during a match, THE SCORE IS

DETERMINED AT THE END OF THE MATCH, BY THE CONDITION OF THE FIELD AT THAT TIME ONLY. This means that points won’t be awarded for accomplishments that the Robot accidentally trashes before the match ends. If the thickness of a line on the mat comes into question, and for other situations that are “too close to call” the team is given the benefit of the doubt. Scores from each Round are independent, and only a team’s best score counts.

20. The “Terms & Rules” are superseded by the “Challenge Tasks” when the two conflict.


22. The complete Canine Companion Challenge Task list is on the following page.

50

Canine Companion Challenge

The dog! That darn dog! For the third time this week, the housekeeping staff at the Goodwin mansion has quit because their adorable 200-pound St. Bernard has trashed the place… again. Mr. Goodwin is losing hair and sleep over the problem. He can’t bear to part with the dog, but he’s having more and more trouble finding people who are willing to keep the place clean for any amount of money! Mrs. Goodwin, however, has heard about your Canine Companion robot through a friend, and wants to know if the robot could perhaps be adapted to serve as a robotic housekeeper for the Minis and their dog. The robot would have to do a few basic chores, like taking out the trash… but mostly, it just needs to be able to keep up with the dog! The following are the required tasks that the Canine Companion robot must complete for the National Robotics Challenge. Please keep in mind that the tasks do not necessarily need to be completed in a specific order unless specified in the task description. Tasks

Your robot must be able to perform the following tasks on a game board modeled after the Mini mansion:

Stay in low-power mode until the sound of a barking dog indicates that the robot will be needed.

Move through the house cleaning up after everything the dog has done this time. o The dog has knocked over the trash… so the robot must push all the trash over

into the dumpster area. o The dog has also tracked mud through the house… the robot must follow the trail

as far as it goes, cleaning it up along the way (fortunately, the bottom of the robot automatically cleans any spot the robot passes over).

After all the mischief, the dog is waiting at the door to be walked… the robot needs to let the dog out and walk it one full lap around the yard.

After the walk the robot must throw the dog’s ball for a quick game of fetch.

The dog also ate all its food… the robot should fill the food bowl with the food that is right next to it.

After this, the robot must then return to its waiting spot, and wait for the next time it’s needed.

Some additional notes and requirements:

The robot must have a manual shut-off button so that someone could easily turn the robot off at any time.

The robot has to be able to do everything to take care of the house and the dog, but not necessarily all in one run, or using only one program. Each task or few tasks can be done with a different program, just so long as everything gets done!

51

Game Board Layout

1. A detailed diagram of the game board is posted on the National Robotics Challenge website under “Contest Diagrams”.

Tips: • Concentrate on developing a solution step by step. Don’t try to get it all at once or

things will get out of hand very quickly. • Teamwork is crucial. The challenge is too much for one person to get done alone in

time. Try dividing up tasks for different team members. • Test and refine your design as many times as possible. The robot must be ready for

whatever comes its way.

52

FINAL EVENT - Canine Companion Challenge

EVENT: Canine Companion Challenge LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________

Tasks Points

Possible

Points

Awarded

Round 1

Points

Awarded

Round 2

Points

Awarded

Round 3

Task 1: Woof-woof

Stay in low-power mode until the barking dog indicates that the robot will be needed – 15 pts.

15

Task 2: Trash Cleanup

robot must push all the trash into the dumpster area

o 5 points per piece

35

Task 3: Mud Trail

The robot follows the trail as far as it goes. – 30 pts.

30

Task 4: Walk the Dog

The robot walks one full lap around the yard. – 20 pts.

The robot throws/hits the dog’s ball. -10 pts.

30

Task 5: Feed the Dog

The robot moves the food onto the food bowl. – 20 pts.

20

Task 6: Robot in Base

Robot must then return to its waiting spot, (base)

and wait for the next time it’s needed. – 15 pts.

15

Penalty

Number of times the robot touches a thick black

line or is handled by a team member outside

base. (New for 2012)

_________________________ x -5 pts. ea.

Totals

145

Highest Total:

53

Manufacturing Model


In the Manufacturing Model contest, the participants design, construct, and operate a system that performs more than one manufacturing processes. The manufacturing model will demonstrate both fundamental and advanced manufacturing applications.

Rules

1. Teams will be required to create a model of a manufacturing system to simulate the manufacture of a specific object.

2. The specifications for the object and the manufacturing procedures necessary can be found on the next page in the Contest Manual.

3. This contest is intended to allow teams to demonstrate their understanding of manufacturing principles using inexpensive components such as Lego’s, Fischertechnik, Parallax or any other available pieces.

4. Electronic controlling devices such as computers, microcontrollers, or PLC's should be used in the design of the model.

5. Each manufacturing work cell must fit within a 29” x 96” footprint (standard 8’ folding table).

6. The team will be allocated ten (10) minutes to demonstrate the operation of the model and ten (10) minutes for a discussion with the judging team.

15. A written report is required for this contest. Each team is to submit two (2) copies of a Descriptive Report at registration on April 12, 2012 or send via mail, post-marked by April 2, 2012. If the reports meet the published criteria they are eligible for bonus points. Reports received after this date will not be eligible for bonus points. Please refer to the Project Report Guidelines on page 12 of the Contest Manual for additional information. The report must include:

f. A statement of the manufacturing task being demonstrated g. The design drawing(s) of the cell h. The design procedures i. A description of safety precautions considered for the design, building and

operation. j. Component list indicating items designed and produced by the team and stock






54

Manufacturing Procedures - Manufacturing Model

(New for 2012)

1. Cut grove on the side of the block. 2. Cut grove on the top of the block. 3. Cut the fillet on the top of the block 4. Cut the chamfer on the top of the block 5. Cut the top chamfer on the side of the block 6. Cut the bottom chamfer on the side of the block 7. Drill holes in the side of the block. 8. Drill hole on the end of the block. 9. Paint the block. 10. Store the block.

The manufacturing model entry must simulate the manufacture of five (5) v-blocks without human interaction.

55

Object Specifications – Manufacturing Model (New for 2012)

2012 Block The dimensions of this block are only meant to be a guide for proportions. The block may

be scaled up or down to fit the needs of the modeling platform chosen for the entry.

56

FINAL EVENT - Manufacturing Model

EVENT: Manufacturing Model

LEVEL: _____ Middle School _____ High School _____ Post Secondary SCHOOL: ___________________________________________________________________ CAPTAIN: ___________________________________________________________________

1. Descriptive Report Evaluation – Bonus Points





2. Evaluation Form

Judging Criteria

Excellent Good Average Fair Poor Points Awarded

Quality of the design 50 40 30 20 10

Safety design and consideration 50 40 30 20 10

How model performs / final operation

25 20 15 10 5

Assembly esthetics & technique 25 20 15 10 5

Workmanship 25 20 15 10 5

Proper assembly of components / functionality of task

25 20 15 10 5

Solution of the problem 25 20 15 10 5

Final descriptive report / documentation

50 40 30 20 10

Evidence of teamwork in the design and operation of the project

25 20 15 10 5

Manufacturing applications in the work cell

100 80 60 40 20

Student understanding of manufacturing

100 80 60 40 20

Total points available 500




Plus Bonus Points (from #1) Final Score


57

Math Machines Challenge Middle School, High School

Contest Description

Students will use a Math Machines ACV (Algebraically Controlled Vehicle) and a Servo Pointer to navigate a maze using linear and rotary motion with the high precision characteristic of stepper motors and variable velocities which students enter in standard mathematical format. It turns the "abstract" equations of uniformly accelerated motion, simple harmonic motion and much more into physical reality.

*The Math Machines ACV and Servo Pointer will be used in this competition. They can be purchased from http://www.mathmachines.net

Rules

1. This is a team competition and a team consists of two (2) to four (4) students from a single school and division.

2. Each team will provide their own computer, Math Machines ACV, Servo Pointer and/or TI-83/TI-84 calculator for the competition.

3. Students will have three attempts to maneuver the maze problem and using the servo pointer to complete various tasks while earning points.

4. Any additional equipment and/or supplies will be provided at the competition 5. The team will be given a problem to solve using only their computer, Math Machines

ACV and Servo Pointer, and or calculator and the supplies provided by the National Robotics Challenge personnel.

6. Each team will have one (1) hour to solve the given problem and program their robot. Before the contest begins.

7. The contest will require the teams to demonstrate knowledge of: a. Linear measuring b. Angular measuring c. Geometric functions d. Algebraic functions e. Sine curves f. Cosine curves g. Parabolic functions

8. As each team completes their solution they will notify the National Robotics Challenge staff and can be judged at that time.

9. A team table with two chairs and access to a 110-volt standard outlet will be provided. 10. Decisions of the judges are final and binding.

For information on Math Machines go to www.mathmachines.net

58

Swept Away!

Middle School, High School, Post-Secondary

Contest Description

Swept Away is a head-to-head robotics competition designed to provide a challenge for designers of all experience levels. The game is played on an 8 ft x 8 ft field which is divided in half by a 12” tall wall. At the center of this wall are two 18” tall trapezoidal shaped goals, one on each side of the wall. There are also two 4” tall slots along the base of the wall. One robot is placed on each side of the field with twelve small foam soccer balls and six foam footballs. Robots can dump footballs over the 12” tall wall. They can also roll soccer balls through the slots, dump them over the 12” wall or dump them into the 18” tall goals.

The object of the game is simple: get as many balls onto your opponent’s side of the field as possible during a two minute match. At the end of the match referees will count the total balls on each side of the field. You get points based on what is on the opponent’s side. (It doesn’t matter if the balls started the match on that side, they still count!) Every soccer ball on the opponent’s side of the field is worth 1 point. Soccer balls placed in the 18” tall goal on the opponent’s side of the field are worth 3 points. Footballs on the opponent’s side of the field are worth 3 points. If all the balls in play end up on one side of the field, the match immediately ends. The team with all the balls on their side has been “SWEPT AWAY” and loses the match.

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Rules 1. Matches are played on an 8 ft x 8 ft field which is divided in half by a 12” tall wall. 2. One robot is placed on each side of the divider wall at the start of every match. 3. Robots may be placed anywhere, as long as they are ENTIRELY on their side of the

field, and NOT touching any balls. 4. At the beginning of any match, robots must be smaller than 18” x 18” x 18”. (New for

2012) 5. Robots may expand beyond their starting size constraints after the start of a match.

(New for 2012) 6. Any restraints used to maintain starting size (i.e. zip ties, rubber bands, etc) MUST

remain attached to the robot for the duration of the match. (New for 2012) 7. Robots must ONLY utilize the VEXnet system for all robot communication. (New for

2012) a. VEX 75Mhz Crystal Radios are prohibited. b. Electronics from the VEX-RCR product line are prohibited including all VEXplorer

electronics. c. A VEXnet Joystick may only be used in conjunction with a Cortex Microcontroller. A

VEXnet upgraded 75MHz Transmitter may only be used in conjunction with a PIC Microcontroller.

d. Mixing and matching VEXnet transmitters and receivers is prohibited. 1. There are six (6) footballs placed on each side of the field, as shown. 2. There are twelve (12) soccer balls placed on each side of the field, as shown.

3. The field surface (that the robots drive on) will be plywood painted black.

On each side of the field:

a. One (1) Football is placed in each of the four (4) corners. b. Four (4) Soccer Balls are placed in a row centered on each of the three (3) outer

walls. c. Two (2) Footballs are placed 24” apart centered on the “back” wall.

Note: Use the mounting holes in the wall as reference points for placing these balls.

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Match Scoring - Match Play 1. Two teams compete in each one vs. one match (each team will field one robot). 2. Matches are two minutes (2:00) long.

a. Robots function “Autonomously” for the first 30 seconds and “Operator Controlled” the remainder of the match.

3. The points scored in the Autonomous portion will be totaled and multiplied by 5. 4. Any balls that exit the playing field will be returned to play as fast as possible by field

personnel; these will be placed in about the same location they exited the field. 5. Robots are not permitted to touch the floor on the opponent’s side of the field.

a. Accidentally protruding over or under the dividing wall and incidentally touching the floor is ok.

b. Robot interaction over / under the wall is ok as long as neither robot touches the floor on the opposite side of the wall intentionally.

c. Protruding through the slot in the wall but not touching the floor intentionally is ok. 6. Team Members are not allowed to interact or interfere with the robots or balls in any

way. 7. Robots are not allowed to intentionally attach to the field perimeter or divider wall. 8. Strategies aimed at intentionally damaging the field, balls, or opposing robots are illegal. 9. Scoring is done at the end of the match, when all objects have come to rest. 10. A ball is only counted as being on one side of the field if it is ENTIRELY on one side of

the center wall. a. If the ball is partially on both sides, or if it is not obvious that it is entirely on one side,

it does not count as being on either side. b. A soccer ball is counted as being in a goal if any part of the soccer ball breaks the

perimeter of the goal. i. If it is hanging over the edge of the goal, it still counts. ii. If it is on top of the goal, but breaking the goal perimeter, it still counts. iii. If it is being held by a robot, but breaking the goal perimeter, it still counts. iv. If it is breaking the perimeter of both goals, it counts for both!

11. If a soccer ball is considered to be in a goal, it is worth only three (3) points, and does not get an additional point for being on the opponent’s side of the field.

12. Footballs do NOT receive points for being in a goal. a. A football only counts for (3) points if it is entirely on one side of the field or the other

(regardless of whether it is in a goal or not). 13. If at any point during the two-minute (2:00) match all the balls still in play (not already in

a goal) end up on one side of the field, the match immediately ends, and the match will be scored at that time. The team with all the balls on their side has been “SWEPT AWAY” and loses the match. a. Balls outside the field are still considered “in play” as they will be returned to the

field. b. Balls outside the field are considered to be scored on the side of the field where they

exited the field. They will be returned to this same side. - A team receives one (1) point for every soccer ball on their opponent’s side

of the field. - A team receives three (3) points for every soccer ball in the goal on their

opponent’s side of the field. - A team receives three (3) points for every football on their opponent’s side

of the field.

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Robot Construction

1. Robot construction is limited to the Robot Components from the VEX kits listed below.

a. The packaging, manuals, balls and other “non-robot” components from this kit are NOT allowed.

b. Teams can utilize the individual sub-components from these kits so long as they do not use more parts than are available on the list below or parts not found in any of the kits on the list.

2. Robots may only be controlled by (1) VEX Transmitter. 3. Robots may use no more than (5) VEX Motors and no more than (1) VEX Servo. 4. Robots may use unlimited of the following VEX components: screws, nuts, bearings,

bearing rivets, collars, washers, spacers, and zip ties. 5. Parts may not be attached in any way not provided as part of the VEX Robotics Design

System a. Example – It is illegal to glue, weld, solder, or to stick parts together with chewing

gum. 6. VEX Electronics may not be modified in any way. 7. We encourage teams to show individuality by decorating their robots. As such, teams

may add nonfunctional decorations provided that these do not affect the robot performance in any significant way or affect the outcome of the match.

Allowed Robot Components

Note: The VEX Classroom Competition Team Bundle (278-1007) contains ALL the allowable components.

For more information on these VEX kits & components refer to www.VEXrobotics.com • (1) Tank Tread Upgrade Kit • (1) High Strength Gear Kit • (1) High Strength Sprocket & Chain Kit • (1) Linear Slide (2-pk) • (1) Rack Gear Bracket (2-pk) • (1) VEX Hinge (2-pk) • (1) Rubber Band Pack • (1) VEX Latex Tubing Pack (10-feet) • (1) Protobot Robot Kit • (1) Booster Kit • (1) Metal & Hardware Kit • (1) Microcontroller

• (1) TX-RX Kit • (1) Servo Kit • (1) Motor Kit (5th motor) • (1) 7.2V Robot Battery • (1) Battery Mounting Straps • (1) PWM Bundle • (1) Limit Switch Kit • (1) Bumper Switch Kit • (1) Tank Tread Kit • (1) Sprocket & Chain Kit • (1) Advanced Gear Kit • (1) Large Omni-Wheel Kit

VEX and the Swept Away! competition are used by permission of Innovation First Inc. Copyright 2009. Innovation First, Inc.

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Tournament Play

1. Teams will be ranked using a series of 30 second autonomous qualifying matches. 2. Teams are ranked based on their number of points scored during the qualifying

matches. a. If more than one team has the same number of points, they will be randomly seeded

into the next seeded places. 3. The top sixteen ranked teams will play in a double elimination tournament to determine

the winner. Swept Away Field

Swept Away is played on an 8 ft x 8 ft field which is divided in half by a 12” tall wall. At the center of this wall are two 18” tall trapezoidal shaped goals, one on each side of the wall. There are also two 4” tall slots along the base of the wall. There are twelve (12) orange foam footballs and twenty-four (24) green foam 4” soccer balls in play on the field.

The VEX Classroom Competition Field Kit (278-1004) available at VEXrobotics.com includes the entire official Swept Away field, including the perimeter, field wall, goals, and all balls. This official field was designed specifically for implementation in a classroom environment. Its robust sheet-metal construction can handle all the rigors of competition. The field requires NO tools for assembly and can be fully set up or taken apart for storage in less than five minutes. Ball Dimensions

Green Soccer Balls: Size – approximately 4.0” in diameter Weight – approximately 0.125 lbs

Orange Footballs: Width – approximately 5.25” wide Length – approximately 9.0” long Weight – approximately 0.4 lbs

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Critical Field Specifications Perimeter Dimensions The field is surrounded by a 5.59 inch tall sheet metal perimeter. This perimeter is constructed of (8) brackets in a square configuration. The inside of the field measures 92.94” x 92.94”. The field will be mounted on two 4ft x 8 ft pieces of plywood.

Wall & Goal Dimensions The center wall dividing the field is 12.18” tall, and stretches across the entire field (92.94”) directly down the center. There are two 20” wide x 4.16” tall slots in the wall for soccer balls to roll through. In the center of the wall there are two 18” tall goals. These goals are 10.5” wide at the wall, 4.31” wide at the tip, and project out from the wall 5.35”. The goals are 3” offset from the center of the field.

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