njrc 2014 challenge announcement

NJRC 2014 CHALLENGE MANUAL

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CHALLENGE ANNOUNCEMENT MANUAL

Organised by: Sponsored by:

Supported by:


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CONTENT

1. An Introduction to the NJRC Pg 3

2. Format Of Competition Pg 4

3. The NJRC Challenge

Primary Division – Mission 1 Pg 8

Secondary Division – Mission 1 Pg 15

Tertiary Division – Mission 1 Pg 21

All Division Pg 27

Trial / Practice Playing Fields Pg 31

4. NJRC Awards Pg 32

5. Open Category Pg 36

6. Side Events Pg 37

7. Challenge Week Schedule Pg 40

8. World Robot Olympiad (WRO) 2014 Pg 44

9. Important Dates Pg 45


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An Introduction to the NJRC The National Junior Robotics Competition (NJRC) is an exciting and unique event organised by Science Centre Singapore and Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR). Supported by the Ministry of Education (MOE), Tote Board and DSO National Laboratories, this robotics competition encourages students to develop problem solving skills, entrepreneurial skills, creative thinking skills and team spirit among the participants. The NJRC is about celebrating the process of learning through interactive, meaningful experiences. This competition promotes strategy building, teamwork and creativity among student participants. Over the past 15 years, more than 45,000 participants and 220,000 supporters have gathered for this premier robotics competition. This year's NJRC is celebrating its 16th Anniversary and NJRC 2014 promises to be filled with exciting changes to cope with international robotics competition standards! Theme for NJRC 2014 Every year, the NJRC revolves around a specific theme and a challenge is revealed to the students around 8 weeks before the competition proper. This year the theme for NJRC is “Space the Final Frontier”. It orbits around the idea of the challenges involved when humankind pushes forth in conquering space, the moon and beyond. Teams The NJRC is divided into 3 categories:

Primary Category (Participants 12 years old and below at the competition year)

Secondary Category (Participants 13 to 16 years old)*

Tertiary Division (Participants 17 to 19 years old)

*Winning teams with 2 or more members with the age of 16 at the competition year will not be eligible to compete in the WRO Junior High category. The next best ranking team with the appropriate age requirements will qualify.

Each team; of not more than 5 students each, will work together in order to fulfill the missions of the competition. One or more teachers and/or parents can mentor each team. Mentors are to provide guidance and support, and are NOT allowed to work on the project for the students. Teams have to canvass for funds from the community around them. During the process of constructing their robots, students can request for assistance in technology know-how and entrepreneurial skills from industry partners. Expectations on Teams After the Challenge Announcement in July, teams will work on the different aspects of the competition. The primary task for the teams will be to build a robot to take on the challenge during the NJRC event. Using the LEGO® MINDSTORMS RCX (9794), NXT® (9797) and EV3 challenge kits, students have to construct and program their creation to overcome a specially designed and challenging course called “the playing field”. Their robots will compete with one another and garner the best score during one of the scheduled days in the challenge preliminary rounds. The top 40 teams from each category will vie for the top position during the Grand Finals on the last day of the NJRC.


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Apart from the building the best robot, teams are expected to conduct research on this year’s theme, which is “Space the Final Frontier”. They are to present their findings to a panel of judges during the pre-event presentation rounds. Teams will also submit their learning journals and present their competition learning journey that encapsulates their robot design, building and programming work and all other work that they done for this competition. NJRC is an excellent opportunity for students to interact with their peers, teachers and judges (from tertiary institutions & various industries), during the course of the competition. The NJRC is about celebrating the process of learning through interactive and meaningful experiences.

Format of Competition

The competition will have three categories: Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Level. It will run over a two week period, from 1st of September to 12th of September 2014. The first week of the competition is the Presentation Week while the second week is the Challenge Week.

i. Presentation Week (1 September - 6 September 2014) During the presentation week, teams will present to a panel of judges the work they have done for this competition. These teams will be assessed for a number of awards which includes: a. The Best Mechanical Design Award b. The Best Programming Award c. The Best Research Award d. The Best Learning Journey Award e. The Best Presentation Award

It is strongly recommended that each team brings their own materials for presenting, a laptop with the programme as well as the robot that they would be using in the competition. The presentation plays an integral part for those teams who wish to vie for the NJRC Championship Award. Teams are allotted 10 mins (4 mins presentation, 3 mins learning journey presentation, 3 mins Q&A) only. Note: Details and judging criteria for each award is listed under the ‘The NJRC Awards’

section.

The Presentation

1) Presentation Content (4 mins)

This is an important section of your participation. Your findings will go on to determine if you have “the right stuff” for the Championship Award. The research topic this year will be to find out and learn the different challenges involved when humans will be spending prolonged lengths of time in a weightless or altered environment in outer space or maybe the moon. What are the technologies involved or are currently being studied to solve and address the different challenges humans will face while living outside of planet Earth.


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2) Learning Journey (3 mins) After the presentation of the research, teams are required to showcase their entire learning journey, co-operative work and members’ reflections during their participation in the NJRC. The presentation shall also include explanation(s) of your robot design and programming.

Teams are required to submit their NJRC Journal upon registration. Judging of the learning journey will be based from the NJRC Journal. 3) Q&A (3 mins) Team members are to answer questions asked by the judges after their presentation. Presentation Preliminary (1 September – 4 September 2014) Teams will be allocated a specific time slot on one of the days to make their presentations. Each team is to present to one panel of judges, pitching on the awards for which the team is vying for. The marketing booths area: While waiting for their turn to present to the panel of judges, each team will also be assigned a booth located within the main competition hall. Teams may decorate their booths and use them as bases for their marketing operations. The booth areas will be open to all competitors, supporters, teachers, parents, public, etc. Judges will be visiting the booths to assess each team for a variety of awards. Teams are advised to have at least one member present at their booths. In case all team members are not around at their booth area, the judges will be notified when the team is back at their respective booth.

Each team will be assessed for the following awards:

a. Best Booth Design Award b. Entrepreneur Award

Note: Details and judging criteria for each award is listed under the ‘The NJRC Awards’

section.

Presentation Finals (6 September 2014) During the finals, shortlisted teams will give a presentation focusing on the award for which they are being considered. E.g. Teams considered for the “The Best Research Award” are to pitch their presentation towards their research. Each team is given only 10 mins (5 mins presentation, 5 mins Q&A) for the presentation finals.


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Important notes: Teams that are considered for the presentation finals will be informed through their touch-point (either their teachers-in-charge or their team leaders). Each team is to provide its touch-point’s contact number when they register for the presentation preliminary.

ii. Challenge Week (8 September – 11 September 2014)

This year the challenge comprises of 1 mission which will be made known during Challenge Announcement. On competition day, surprise rule(s) will be implemented to test the teams’ ability to adapt/modify their robot and programming. Teams have 1 hour to modify their robots/programming on their specified competition field. Teams will be informed of their competition schedule at least 1 week before challenge week. Teams must ensure that contact details are registered and up to date.

Challenge Preliminaries (8 September - 10 September 2013)

Teams will spend ½ a day at the competition venue during the challenge preliminaries. The competition hall will be divided into 2 sections: (1) The quarantine area Each team will be assigned a work station within the quarantine area where they can work on their robot. To ensure that teams can work free from distractions, there is a quarantine period at the start of each challenge preliminary. All communication devices and storage media are strictly prohibited during this period. Teams must take note of the following:

The competition hall opens at 8 am for morning preliminary and 1:15 pm

for the afternoon preliminary.

Teams cannot leave the competition and quarantine area throughout the preliminaries: 12:30 pm for the morning and 6 pm for the afternoon preliminaries. Teams must not exit the hall during the quarantine period unless the team has been disqualified, or under certain special circumstances.

After quarantine starts, teams are to send 2 representatives to attend the

competition briefing where surprise rule(s) are announced.

Teams are given 1 hour to adapt/modify their pre-assembled robot to the surprise rule(s), calibrate their sensors, and practice at their assigned playing fields. Courtesy and good behavior must be maintained at all times as other teams will be sharing the same competition playing field. Teams must heed the instructions of NJRC officials at all times.


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After the allocated time no further trial runs are allowed on the

competition fields. Teams may use the trial playing fields within the quarantine area.

After Run 1, teams are to return to their work stations in the

quarantine area and wait for the team coordinators to call for Run 2. Teams may opt not to do Run 2.

(2) Public and Side Events area Daily knockout rounds for the Sumo and Sprint competitions will be held together with the preliminaries. Top teams from each day will be invited to the Grand finals to determine the top 3 teams. Grand Finals (12 September 2014)

The top 40 teams from each of the Primary and the Secondary Divisions and the top 20 from the Tertiary Division will pit their robots against one another to vie for the Best Robot Performance Award. Details of the Surprise Mission will only be made known in the morning of the Grand Finals. Teams will be given approximately 3 hours to modify their robots to accomplish this mission. Results from the Surprise Mission will be used to determine the Best Robot Performance Award.


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The NJRC Challenge PRIMARY DIVISION

To start the journey into outer space we need a vehicle to take objects and living things high

and fast enough into space! The first rockets we know about were used in China in the

1200s. These solid fuel rockets were used for fireworks. Armies also used them in wars.

Over the next 700 years, people made bigger and better solid fuel rockets.

In 1969, the United States launched the first men to land on the moon using a Saturn V

rocket. New rockets are being developed today. They will launch astronauts on future

missions. These rockets will take satellites into orbit & astronauts into space. They will take

supplies to the International Space Station and maybe back to the moon!

The mission of the robot is to prepare the rockets for launch. Furthermore, the robot has to

ferry the remaining Scientists and Engineers out of the blast zone and into a safe area

before they can launch the rockets into space.

1. CHALLENGE OVERVIEW

The robot’s mission is to assemble Rocket Elements in the Assembly Area (blue), place the Rocket Elements vertically over the Ramp (Ramp surface) in the Launch Table Area, and evacuate all the Scientist and Engineers to the Safe Area (red). The robot must finish in the Safe Area after completing the tasks.

The placement of the scoring elements is only an example.


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2. SCORING ELEMENTS

Rocket Elements (White x2, Blue x2, Red x2) Scientist and Engineers

3. RULES AND MISSION SEQUENCE

3.1. Each mission has 2 runs and the duration of each run is 2 minutes.

3.2. Only 2 team members are allowed in the playing field area.

3.3. Teams must heed all instructions from the referees during game play.

a) Teams behaving in a rowdy manner or distracting the referees may

forfeit the run and be awarded zero points.

3.4. Teams are forbidden any form of communication devices or remote control

throughout the competition at any time during the competition.

3.5. Preparation for Mission:

a) The robot must be placed completely and start in the Base.

b) The robot must be switched on with the program chosen before the

start of the run. The robot must also be motionless.

c) The robot may be programmed to retract its extensions before the

start of the run.

d) Teams are not allowed to modify or add attachment(s) to scoring

elements in any manner.

3.6. Start of Run:

a) When the referee signals, one team member may trigger the robot.

b) Once the run has started, the robot can expand its extensions.

c) During the run, the team cannot touch anything on the playing field

except for the robot and any scoring element (possessed2 by the

robot) in case of a restart.

3.7. Restarts:

a) Teams may request a restart at any point during the run

b) The intention to restart must be made clearly known to and

acknowledged by the referees.

c) The entire robot1 must restart the run within the designated Base.

d) In preparation for the restart, teams must not touch anything on the

playing field except their robot.

e) If there are any scoring elements on the robot or possessed2 by it, the

scoring elements will be forfeited.

f) The playing field, including the props and the scoring elements, will

not be reset for a restart.


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g) A restart does not constitute to another attempt, time runs on, even if

a restart is declared.

h) Only one restart is allowed per run.

3.8. End of Run:

a) The run ends when:

1) The entire robot1 enters the Base and stops.

2) The team declares the robot is unable to complete the run.

3) When time runs out.

4) If any props or scoring elements are damaged (accidentally or

otherwise), the run will be stopped by a referee.

5) If any team member touches anything on the playing field,

including the robot and any scoring element (except during a

restart), the run will be stopped by a referee.

b) If the run is stopped by a referee, teams must switch off the robot

immediately and will not score any points thereafter. If there are any

scoring elements on the robot or possessed2 by it, the elements are

forfeited.

3.9. Scoring:

a) The referee will complete the score sheet and teams must sign on it to

acknowledge the score.

b) Timing: The run time is taken from the start of run till the end of run.

Maximum time is given if the team declares the robot is unable to

complete the run.

c) Appeals: Any team that wishes to appeal any of the referee’s

decisions must inform the referee after the run and before leaving the

playing field area.

3.10. Re-Run:

a) The chief referee may call for a re-run if necessary. However the

following are not valid reasons for a re-run:

1) Battery failure.

2) Robot durability.

3) Any deviations in the playing field setup, within the declared

margins.

3.11. The chief referee has final say on all scoring, game play and re-run

decisions.

a) Teams found acting in a disrespectful and/or rowdy manner may

be disqualified from the competition.

b) The Centre reserves the right to protect its staff from any abuse.

c) Teams are encouraged to clear any doubts about the rules, game

play and scoring before the start of the competition.

3.12. The chief referee and referees will not review any form of recording at any

time during the competition.

1entire robot: robot, inclusive of its attachments, extensions etc. and any scoring elements

2possessed: the scoring element must remain in approximately the same position relative to

the robot when the robot moves or changes orientation.


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4. MISSION GAME PLAY

4.1. The team may place the robot at any part of the Base before the start of the run,

after which the team may not modify the robot or its software in any way.

a) Please refer to 3.5 Preparation for Mission for more details

4.2. Before the start of the run, the scoring elements and their positions will be

random.

4.3. There are a total of 6 scoring elements on the playing field, 3 Rocket Elements

and 3 Scientists/Engineers.

4.4. The robot is not limited to moving along the black lines.

4.5. All Rocket Elements must be placed in the Assembly Area. The Ramp surface is

considered as part of the Assembly Area.

4.6. The assembled Rocket must be placed vertically over the Ramp in the Launch

Table Area.

4.7. A referee will check verticality of the Rocket by using a steel wand (a pin or a

needle) 350 mm long, 3-5 mm in diameter. A mark of 250 mm on the wand will

be used to determine the height of the Rocket.

4.8. The Rocket is considered to be in vertical position if the wand can be stuck into

the Rocket

a) Both ends of the wand are in the Rocket projection.

b) The mark on the wand is below of the highest part of the Rocket.

4.9. The Rocket Elements must be assembled in the correct order:

a) Colors of the Rocket Elements are in the following order: White-Blue-

Red (top to bottom)

b) The Rocket Elements are placed with the LEGO studs in the up

direction.

c) Every Rocket Element touches the next Rocket Element in at least

one point

1) It is allowed that the bottom of the Rocket Element does not

touch the Ramp area)


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d) Verticality

(The orders of the elements are correct for the picture above)

(The orders of the elements are incorrect for the picture above)

4.10. The Rocket must stay vertically on the Ramp for more than 30 seconds after the attempt ends or till that time when the referees check its verticality.

4.11. Scientist and Engineers in the Blast Zones (green circles) need to be moved to the Safe Area (red rectangle).

Please stay tuned for more updates on the use and installation of the Launch Mechanism.

NOTICE

Teams are required to bring their own launch facility.

However, the launch facility must fulfill the following requirements:

The facility must be within 250 x 250 x 250mm. After it has gone through the robot

inspection part, the facility may expand but must be within the assembly area.

All prohibited parts are not allowed (Please refer to General Rules for all divisions).

Batteries are not allowed to act as the weight in the launch facility.


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5. SCORING

5.1. The score will be calculated at the end of the run.

5.2. Maximum score of 100.

5.3. 5 points awarded for every Rocket Element that is completely outside the

Warehouse area.

5.4. 15 points awarded when all Rocket Elements are completely within the Launch

Table area.

5.5. 10 points awarded when at least one Rocket Element is placed on the Ramp.

5.6. 15 points awarded when all Rocket Elements are placed vertically over the

Ramp.

5.7. 20 points awarded when Rocket Elements are placed vertically over the Ramp in

the correct order.

5.8. 5.6 and 5.7 are cumulative – i.e. when all Rocket Elements are placed vertically

over the Ramp and in the correct order will receive a total of 35 points

5.9. 5 points awarded for every Scientist or Engineer moved to the Safe Area.

5.10. 10 points awarded when the robot is completely motionless in the Safe Area

A rocket element is outside of

the warehouse

Area

All Rocket

Elements in the

Launch Table Area

At least one

rocket Element placed

over the ramp

All Rocket

Elements placed

vertically

All Rocket

Elements placed

vertically in the

correct order

Scientist & Engineers

are moved to the Safe

Area

Finish in Safe Area

15 pts max 5 points per

element 15 points 10 points 15 points 20 points

15 pts max 5 points per

person

10 points


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6. TABLE SPECIFICATIONS (MM)

Drawings are available for download at http://www.njrc.com.sg/downloads.html

http://www.njrc.com.sg/downloads.html


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SECONDARY DIVISION

Orbiting around Earth is a number of eternal wanderers, left there by previous space

explorers.

Orbital debris, or “space junk”, is any man-made object in orbit around the Earth that no

longer serves a useful purpose. Space junk can be bad news for an orbiting satellite: On 11th

February 2009 a US communications satellite collided with a non-functioning Russian

satellite. The collision destroyed both satellites and created a field of debris that endangers

other orbiting satellites. After the collision, a group of scientists revealed that there are about

30,000 objects launched (and left) into space orbit, compared to 902 operational satellites.


The robot begins in the Base and has to make its way into Satellite Orbit. The task is to check for Failed Satellites and other Space Debris and move them out of orbit or load them into the Factory Satellite for recycling. The robot must then return back to Base after completing the task.

Placement of the scoring elements is only an example.


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2. SCORING ELEMENTS

2.1. Space Debris

2.2. Satellites

Failed Satellite Valid Satellite





a) Teams behaving in a rowdy manner or distracting the referees may forfeit the

run and be awarded zero points.





b) The robot must be switched on with the program chosen before the start of the

run. The robot must also be motionless.

c) The robot may be programmed to retract its extensions before the start of the

run.

d) Teams are not allowed to modify or add attachment(s) to scoring elements in

any manner.

3.6. Start of Run:



c) During the run, the team cannot touch anything on the playing field except for

the robot and any scoring element (possessed2 by the robot) in case of a

restart.

3.7. Restarts:


b) The intention to restart must be made clearly known to and acknowledged by

the referees.



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d) In preparation for the restart, teams must not touch anything on the playing field

except their robot.

e) If there are any scoring elements on the robot or possessed2 by it, the scoring

elements will be forfeited.

f) The playing field, including the props and the scoring elements, will not be reset

for a restart.

g) A restart does not constitute to another attempt, time runs on, even if a restart is

declared.


3.8. End of Run:





4) If any props or scoring elements are damaged (accidentally or otherwise), the

run will be stopped by a referee.

5) If any team member touches anything on the playing field, including the robot

and any scoring element (except during a restart), the run will be stopped

by a referee.

6) The Factory Satellite is moved off the Factory Satellite Orbit (See 4.6 c

Mission Game play).

b) If the run is stopped by a referee, teams must switch off the robot immediately

and will not score any points thereafter. If there are any scoring elements on the

robot or possessed2 by it, the elements are forfeited.

3.9. Scoring:



b) Timing: The run time is taken from the start of run till the end of run. Maximum

time is given if the team declares the robot is unable to complete the run.

c) Appeals: Any team that wishes to appeal any of the referee’s decisions must

inform the referee after the run and before leaving the playing field area.

3.10. Re-Run:

a) The chief referee may call for a re-run if necessary. However the following are

not valid reasons for a re-run:

b) Battery failure.

c) Robot durability.

d) Any deviations in the playing field setup, within the declared margins.


decisions.

a) Teams found acting in a disrespectful and/or rowdy manner may be

disqualified from the competition.


c) Teams are encouraged to clear any doubts about the rules, game play and

scoring before the start of the competition.

3.12. The chief referee and referees will not review any form of recording at any time

during the competition.


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a) Please refer to 3.5 Preparation for Mission for more details.

4.2. Before the start of the run, the scoring elements will be placed at random.

4.3. There are a total of 8 scoring elements on the playing field.

4.4. The Factory Satellite moves counterclockwise along the Factory Satellite Orbit on

the playing field with a speed from 5cm/s to 10cm/s.

4.5. Once the robot is placed, the referee will give the signal to start when the Factory

Satellite has arrived at its starting position.

4.6. The robot’s mission is to collect all Space Debris and Failed Satellites and load them

into the Factory Satellite.

a) An object is considered loaded into the Factory Satellite only when the object is

completely loaded into the container of the Factory Satellite (white cylinder).


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b) The robot is allowed to touch the Factory Satellite, handicap its movements or

stop its motion completely.

c) Moving the Factory Satellite off the Factory Satellite Orbit (black line) will end

the run.

4.7. Valid Satellites must not be moved from their initial position.

a) A Valid Satellite is considered moved if it is shifted from its rubber ring mount or

if both Valid Satellite and its rubber ring mount are completely outside of the

Satellite Orbit (green line).

4.8. The robot is allowed to pass through the Base.

a) However, stopping within the Base area (e.g. to perform a turn) is considered to

end the run. (see 3.8 End of Run)

5. Scoring

5.1 The score will be calculated at the end of the run.

5.2 5 points awarded for each Space Debris or Failed Satellite that is moved completely

out of Satellite Orbit.

5.3 5 points awarded for each Space Debris loaded into the Factory Satellite.

5.4 10 points awarded for each Failed Satellite loaded into the Factory Satellite.

5.5 10 points awarded for robot stopping completely motionless within Base at the end of

the run.

5.6 10 points deducted for each Valid Satellite moved from its initial position on Satellite

Orbit. This penalty only applies if at least 2 Failed Satellites or Space Debris are

moved out of orbit.

Space Debris or Failed Satellite that

is outside of Satellite Orbit

Loading of Space Debris

Loading of Failed Satellite

Finish in Base

5 pt per item 5 pt per item 10 pt per item 10 pt

Example: Robot A moves 2 space debris and 1 failed satellite out of Satellite Orbit but

also moves 1 Valid Satellite out of its initial position. Robot A loads 1 space debris and 1

failed satellite into the Factory Satellite but could not find Base and is lost in space.

Space Debris or Failed Satellite that is

outside of the Satellite Orbit


Loading of Failed

Satellite

Finish in Base

Final Score

3 x 5 = 15 1 x 5 = 5 1 x 10 = 10 0 15 + 5 + 10 + 0 - 10 = 20

Example: Robot B moves 1 Space Debri out of Satellite Orbit and 1 Valid Satellite out of

its initial position, then returns back to Base.


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Example: Robot C moves 1 Space Debris and 1 Failed Satellite out of Satellite Orbit.

Robot C also moves 1 Valid Satellite out of its initial position, but could not return to Base.





Finish in Base Final Score

2 x 5 = 10 0 0 0 10 + 0 + 0 + 0 – 10 = 0 (penalty

applied)

6. TABLE SPECIFICATIONS






Finish in Base Final Score

1 x 5 = 5 0 0 10 5 + 0 + 0 + 10 = 15 (no penalty

applied)



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TERTIARY DIVISION

Technology has been advancing rapidly for the past 30 years. As such, our power

consumption has been increasing too. There are more cars on the road, more electrical

devices leading to over consumption of fossil fuels that gradually leads to resource

depletion. Therefore, scientists over the world have been in search of an efficient and

renewable energy source to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

There are several alternative energy sources today. Hydro-power being one of the options, it

is often used in conjunction with dams to generate electricity. Wind power can also be

harness via wind farms where airflows can be used to run wind turbines which produces

electricity. But perhaps the most viable alternative energy source has been shining on us

since the dawn of man. In 2011, the International Energy Agency said that the development

of affordable, inexhaustible and clean solar energy technologies will have huge longer-term

benefits.

An ambitious plan by a Japanese engineering firm, Shimizu, is to turn the moon into a giant

solar panel station. The Luna Ring would run around the 6,800 mile lunar equator and be

248 miles in width. It has the potential to generate a massive 13,000 terawatts of energy.

The solar energy collected would be converted and beamed back to earth as microwaves

and laser, where it would then be converted into electricity. It will be maintained by robots.


The robot begins in the Base and has to pass through the Gate into the ‘luna ring’. The task

is to check for Bad Solar Panels (black colour) and replace them with functional ones from

the Warehouse. The robot also needs to detect and restore Inactive Solar Panels (coloured).

The robot must return to the Base after completing the task.

The placement of the scoring elements is only an example.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_turbine

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Energy_Agency


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2. SCORING ELEMENTS

2.1. FUNCTIONAL & DEFECTIVE SOLAR PANELS ARE REPRESENTED BY:

Defective Panels Functional Panels





a) Teams behaving in a rowdy manner or distracting the referees may

forfeit the run and be awarded zero points.





b) The robot must be switched on with the program chosen before the

start of the run. The robot must also be motionless.

c) The robot may be programmed to retract its extensions before the

start of the run.

d) Teams are not allowed to modify or add attachment(s) to scoring

elements in any manner.

3.6. Start of Run:



c) During the run, the team cannot touch anything on the playing field

except for the robot and any scoring element (possessed2 by the

robot) in case of a restart.

3.7. Restarts:


b) The intention to restart must be made clearly known to and

acknowledged by the referees.


d) In preparation for the restart, teams must not touch anything on the

playing field except their robot.

e) If there are any scoring elements on the robot or possessed2 by it, the

scoring elements will be forfeited.

f) The playing field, including the props and the scoring elements, will

not be reset for a restart.


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g) A restart does not constitute to another attempt, time runs on, even if

a restart is declared.


3.8. End of Run:





4) If any props or scoring elements are damaged (accidentally or

otherwise), the run will be stopped by a referee.

5) If any team member touches anything on the playing field,

including the robot and any scoring element (except during a

restart), the run will be stopped by a referee.

c) If the run is stopped by a referee, teams must switch off the robot

immediately and will not score any points thereafter. If there are any

scoring elements on the robot or possessed2 by it, the elements are

forfeited.

3.9. Scoring:



b) Timing: The run time is taken from the start of run till the end of run.

Maximum time is given if the team declares the robot is unable to

complete the run.

c) Appeals: Any team that wishes to appeal any of the referee’s

decisions must inform the referee after the run and before leaving the

playing field area.

3.10. Re-Run:

a) The chief referee may call for a re-run if necessary. However the

following are not valid reasons for a re-run:

4) Battery failure.

5) Robot durability.

6) Any deviations in the playing field setup, within the declared

margins.


decisions.

a) Teams found acting in a disrespectful and/or rowdy manner may

be disqualified from the competition.


c) Teams are encouraged to clear any doubts about the rules, game

play and scoring before the start of the competition.

3.12. The chief referee and referees will not review any form of recording at any

time during the competition.


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a) Please refer to 3.5 Preparation for Mission for more details.

4.2. Before the start of the run, the scoring elements will be placed at random. Functional

but Inactive Solar Panels will be represented with the red side facing the left of the

playing field.

4.3. There are a total of 12 scoring elements on the playing field.

4.4. The robot must reactivate Inactive Solar Panels by turning it into the correct direction

(blue side facing the left of the playing field).

a) Inactive/Active Solar Panels must remain within the Challenge Object Area

(grey rectangle area).

4.5. The robot must replace any Bad Solar Panels with the functional panels in the

Warehouse.

a) The Bad Solar Panels must not be left in the Outer Space area; it must be

transported to the Space Station or to the Warehouse.

b) The robot is not allowed to reach/throw/climb or otherwise cross over the

barrier delimiting Space Station from the Outer Space. Such panels will not be

scored.

4.6. The robot must pass through the Gate to move to the Outer Space area or when

returning to the Space Station area.

b) If any wheels/tracks touch the barrier, the robot will be considered climbing over

the barrier.

c) The robot on the raised level platform is considered to be in the Space Station

area.

4.7. All functional solar panels must be completely in the corresponding grey area. Only

one panel is allowed to be in each grey area.


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4.8. If a functional solar panel loses one or more LEGO-elements, the panel will be

considered as an Inactive Solar Panel.

a) Refer to the illustration below for better understanding.

5. SCORING

5.1. The score will be calculated at the end of the run.

5.2. Maximum score of 100.

5.3. 3 points awarded for each functional & Active Solar Panel within the Challenge

Object Area.

5.4. 10 points awarded for each Bad Solar Panel that is replaced.

5.5. 3 points awarded for each Bad Solar Panel that is transported back to the Space

Station area.

5.6. 5 points awarded for each Bad Solar Panel that is transported back to the

Warehouse area.

5.7. 5.5 and 5.6 are cumulative – i.e. a Bad Solar Panel that is transported to the

Warehouse area will receive a total of 8 points

5.8. 14 points awarded if there are no other solar panels in the Outer Space area except

for the 9 functional and Active Solar Panels in their respective Challenge Object

Areas.

5.9. 5 points awarded if the robot is completely motionless in Base.

5.10. The robot must at least move to the Outer Space area before it qualifies for any

points.

Functional & Active

Solar Panel

Replaced Bad Solar

Panel

Bad Solar Panels that are brought

back to the Space Station area

Bad Solar Panels that are brought back to the Warehouse

area

All 9 solar panels in

Outer Space are Active

Finish in

Base

27 pts max 3 pts each




14 pts 5pts


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6. TABLE SPECIFICATIONS




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FOR ALL DIVISIONS 1. General Rules

1.1. The controller, motors and sensors used to assemble robots must be from LEGO®

MINDSTORMS ™ sets (RCX, NXT or EV3) and the HiTechnic Color Sensor. Other LEGO branded elements may be used to construct the remaining parts of the robot. NJRC recommends use of Education versions of LEGO MINDSTORMS due to extended service available from LEGO Education distributors.

1.2. Teams should prepare and bring all the equipment, software and portable computers they need during the tournament.

1.3. Teams should bring enough spare parts. Even in the case of any accidents or equipment malfunction, the council (and/or organizing committee) is not responsible for their maintenance or replacement.

1.4. Coaches/Mentors are not allowed to enter the playing field or quarantine area to provide any instructions and guidance during the competition.

1.5. Teams may pre-programme their robots.

1.6. Robots are not allowed to use screws, glues or tape to fasten any components. Non-compliance will result in disqualification.

1.7. Control software must be either ROBOLAB® NXT®, EV3 software or LabView. See chart below for eligible controller/software combinations for NJRC.

Robolab NXT Software RobotC** EV3 Software Labview*

RCX √ x x x x

NXT √ √ x √ √

EV3 x x x √ √

*LabView is ONLY permitted in the Tertiary Division **RobotC is NOT allowed

1.8. The motors and the sensors for the robot are supplied by LEGO® and HiTechnic. Any other products are not allowed. Teams are not allowed to modify any original parts (for example: Controllers, motors, and sensors, etc). A robot made with modified parts will be disqualified at that match.


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1.9. Allowed sensors and motors:

RCX Sensors and Motor NXT Sensors and Motor

9758

Light Sensor

9842

Motor with Tacho

5225

Lego Technic

Gear Motor

9843

Touch Sensor

9844

Light Sensor

9889

Temperature

Sensor (9V)

9845

Sound Sensor

9891

Angle Sensor

(9V)

9846

Ultra Sonic Sensor

9911

Touch Sensor

And Leads

9694

Color Sensor

EV3 Sensors and Motor HiTechnic NXT

Color Sensor

45502 Large Motor

45503

Medium Motor

44504

Ultra Sonic Sensor

44506

Color Sensor

44507

Touch Sensor

44509

Infrared Sensor

Note*: EV3 Gyro Sensor is not allowed for all 3 Divisions in NJRC 2014.

Also, if you are using the EV3 you may only use three (3) motor ports.


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2. Robot Regulations 2.1. The maximum dimensions of the entire robot* before it starts the “mission” must be

within 250mm × 250mm × 250mm. After the robot starts, the dimensions of the robot are not restricted.

a) Robots using attachments must be sized with the attachments attached to the

robot. If there are multiple attachments, each attachment(s) configuration must

be sized with the robot

b) All extensions may be retracted and must not touch/lean on the sizing box

during inspection.

c) The robot can be powered to retract the extensions. However, it must be

motionless.

d) Teams will be asked to remove any part of the robot that fails these criteria and

the robot will be re-inspected.

2.2. Teams are allowed to use only one controller (RCX, NXT or EV3).

2.3. The number of motors and sensors to be used is not restricted.

2.4. Mixing of parts from all 3 platforms (RCX / NXT / EV3) is allowed.

2.5. Attachments must not be built with a NXT, RCX or EV3 microcontroller.

2.6. The robot and its attachments will be checked by a Robot Inspector to ensure that

only legal parts are used.

a) Teams may be disqualified if any illegal parts are used.

2.7. Teams can only use any version of EV3, NXT-G, RoboLab or NI LabView to program their robots. Teams who are found using any other software can face immediate disqualification from the entire Mission.

2.8. Team members are not allowed to interfere or assist the robot while it is running. Teams that violate this rule will be disqualified at that match.

2.9. A robot must be autonomous and finish the “mission” by itself. Radio communication, remote control or wired control systems are not allowed while the robot is running. Teams that violate this rule will be disqualified at that match.

2.10. If the robot is equipped with a NXT or EV3 controller, Bluetooth and Wi-FI function must be switched off at all times.

2.11. Teams are not allowed to use a Multiplexer (a multiplexer makes it possible to add to the number of sensors and motors in use)!


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3. Prohibited Matters 3.1. Destruction of competition courts/tables, materials or robots of other teams.

3.2. Use of dangerous items or behaviors that may interfere with the competition.

3.3. Teams are not allowed to tamper, copy, upload or download programs to/from

another team’s EV3/NXT/RCX. Teams that violate this rule will be disqualified

immediately.

3.4. Inappropriate words and/or behavior toward other team members, other teams, audience, judges or staff.

3.5. Bringing a cellular/mobile phone or a medium of wire/wireless communication into

the quarantine/ challenge area.

3.6. Team members using any communication devices and methods while the

competition is in process. Anyone outside the competition area is also banned from

talking to or communicating with competing students. Teams violating this rule will

be considered as disqualified and should quit the competition immediately. If

communication is necessary, the committee may allow team members to

communicate with others under supervision by tournament staff or by exchanging a

note under permission by judges.

3.7. Bringing food or drink into the quarantine/ challenge area.

3.8. Any other situation which NJRC officials might consider as interference or violation

of the spirit of the competition.

The NJRC Chief Robot Inspector will have the final say on all robot build and

regulations decisions.

a) Teams found acting in a disrespectful or/and rowdy manner may be

disqualified from the competition.


c) Teams are encouraged to clear any doubts about the robot regulations

before the start of the competition.

*entire robot: robot, inclusive of its attachments, extensions, etc, and any scoring elements ⁻attachments: an assembly of parts that add functionality to the robot. A part alone is not

considered an attachment. (e.g. a motor or a sensor are considered parts. A motor with a beam attached to it, for mounting purposes, is considered an attachment)


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Trial/ Practice Playing Fields To help teams prepare for the challenge, trial playing fields will be set up at the Science Centre. (2 for Primary, 2 for Secondary, 1 for Tertiary) These trial fields will be available for use (through reservation) from 14 July 2014 to 22 August 2014. All teams may book the trial fields from Monday to Friday on a first-come-first-served basis. Each booking is for 2 hours, i.e. 9-11am, 11am-1pm, 1-3pm and 3-5pm. Each school is allowed to reserve up to 2 bookings per week only. Bookings can be done via email to [email protected]. Bookings are confirmed ONLY when a confirmation email is sent to the applicant. (Please allow a minimum of 3 working days for processing of bookings).

NJRC 2014 CHALLENGE MANUAL C

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The NJRC Awards The Championship Awards

This is the most prestigious award that a team can win. It is bestowed on the team that embodies the NJRC spirit. Teams are considered for the Championship Award based on their overall excellence and total learning experience during the course of the competition. As a Championship Award recipient, the winning team is recognised as being outstanding and the assessment is based on the scores of the top 40 finalists according to the following weightage:

30% on Robot Performance (Surprise Mission Score)

30% on Best Presentation (40% Learning Journey, 20% Research, 40% Presentation skills)

20% on Technical Excellence (50% Mechanical & 50% Programming Skills)

20% on Soft Skills (50% Best Booth Design, 50% Entrepreneurship)

Technical Awards

The Best Robot Performance Award

For the team whose robot accumulates the highest scores in achieving the various mission objectives on the playing field, based on the Surprise Mission in the finals.

The Best Mechanical Design Award

For the team that best demonstrates a sound understanding and appropriate application of mechanical design principles, as shown by their robust or sturdy, consistent and dependable robot.

Criteria

1 Structural design

2 Locomotion

3 Navigation

4 Overall design & integration

The Best Programming Award

For the team that demonstrates a sound understanding of programming and the challenge requirements by creating the most ingenious and sound programme to run their robot effectively and efficiently.

Criteria

1 Overall understanding of the programme

2 Modularity

3 Strategy

4 Overall design & integration


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The Best Strategy Award

For the team that best demonstrates a sound understanding and appropriate application of mechanical design and programming principles, as well as translating their knowledge and skills into robots with excellent performance in the mission.

Criteria Weightage (%)

Mechanical design 25

Programming 25

Preliminary Mission 25

Final Mission 25

Team Performance Awards

The Best Presentation Award

For the team that best exhibits creativity, fluency, confidence and flair in its presentation, and that demonstrates that “WOW” factor to the panel of judges during the interview session.

Criteria

1 Creativity

2 Fluency

3 Confidence

4 Flair

The Best Research Award

For the most informative research related to the theme.

Criteria

1 Contents

2 Research skills

3 Learning value

4 Teamwork

The Best Learning Journey Award

For the team that best demonstrate the highest levels of learning, application, analysis, synthesis, critical evaluation, self-awareness and the ability to maintain a reflective log of their learning journey.

Teams must submit a printed copy of their NJRC Journal upon Registration on Presentation day.

Criteria

1 Contents

2 Critical & creative thinking

3 Reflection & self awareness

4 Teamwork


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Other Awards

The Best Booth Design Award

For the team that designs and puts up the most creative and outstanding booth.

Criteria

1 Aesthetic value

2 Creativity

3 Originality

4 Team effort

The Entrepreneur Award

For the team that displays entrepreneurship through their exceptional (marketing) efforts with the most effective, interesting or original marketing ideas and/or gimmicks. It can be in the form of a product, a service or advertising and/or promotional media, with the purpose of “selling” their team and championing their cause. In addition, they must secure sponsorship (financial or otherwise) from other agencies and/or organizations.

Criteria

1 Finance

2 Management

3 Sales & marketing

4 Corporate image

The Best Newcomer Award

For the most enthusiastic and spirited novice team from a school participating for the first time, and which shows overall excellence in its performance.

The Best Cheer Team Award

For the school which gives the best cheer to support their participating teams with the most innovative stunts, high-spirited members and spectacularly visual and audio cheer(s).

The Best Mascot Award

For the most creative mascot designed and displayed or the most impressive attire the school wears on any of the competition days.


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The Side Events Awards

The side events are designed to encourage participants who are new to robotics and would like to have a go at it. The NJRC has 2 side events:

SumoBot Sprint Race

The Most Bizarre Robot Design Award

For the team that shows the most outstanding creativity in their robot design (during the side events): the most unique, bizarre, aesthetic design screams for and grabs one’s attention! Robots may look attractive, weird or humorous, but they must look unique.

Special Recognition Award

The Judges’ Award

Apart from the awards listed above, the Judges may present up to FIVE (5) other awards to teams and/or individuals that have displayed outstanding attributes (during the competition) that set them apart in a unique way. These awards allow the judges the freedom to recognise the most remarkable teams for which a standard does not exist.

Judges’ awards include:

The Against-All-Odds Award

For the team who has faced numerous difficult tasks in their NJRC journey, due to un-expected and external factors, and yet, is able to accomplish the challenge.

The Risk Taker Award

For the team that takes the initiative to achieve its mission objectives through intelligent and well calculated risk management skills and strategies as well as a willingness to plan and execute dangerous maneuver.

The Sportsmanship Award

For those teams and/or individuals that demonstrate great sportsmanship during the competition – cheering, encouraging other teams and/or schools, celebrating other’s success as much as their own. This award is based on nominations by the competing teams. *Judges may not give the Judges’ Awards should there be no deserving teams.


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The Open Category

The open category aims to encourage creative expression and innovative ideas of robot design. The theme of this year’s competition is “Space the Final Frontier” and teams are to design and create robots that will assist humankind in solving different tasks in Space. This category is open to the following age groups:

Primary Category (Participants 12 years old and below at the competition year)

Secondary Category (Participants 13 to 15 years old)

Tertiary Division (Participants 16 to 19 years old)

Each participating team is allowed to have a maximum of 5 team members and teams are allowed to use any material in the construction of their robot. Each team is to design and build a robot based on the theme. The robot must NOT be for static display only. There is no restriction on the balance between LEGO® elements and other materials. All robots must be operated by RCX, NXT or EV3 controller and any software. Robots may be preassembled and software programs may be pre-made!

The size of the robot must not exceed 2m x 2m x 2m Each team is given 8 mins to present its robots, 4 mins to introduce and demonstrate its robot and the remaining 4 mins to respond to Judges’ questions. Assessment for this award will be based on:

Creativity (25%) Technical Design (25%) Relevance to Theme (25%) Entertainment Value (25%)

The winning team across all categories wins the following prizes;

$1,000 education fund Sponsored trip to WRO 2014 in Sochi, Russia

Registration

Registration is open to all students. Students do not need to be from the same school. However, all the students of a team must be in the same category age group to qualify. Registration for the Open Category starts on 7 July 2014 and closes on 23 August 2014. To participate, please fill up the registration form (available for download at www.njrc.com.sg) and send it back to us at [email protected] or fax 6561 6361. Registration closes on 23 August 2014.

http://www.njrc.com.sg/

mailto:[email protected]


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Side Events – SumoBot & Sprint Race

This year, NJRC will have the SumoBot and Sprint Race as our side events on the day of the Grand Finals. In these two competitions, participants are only allowed to use the components from ONE (1) LEGO Team Challenge Kit ( RCX / NXT / EV3 ). There will be Side Events challenges going on everyday throughout the duration of the challenge week. For more info please check out our website http://www.njrc.com.sg SumoBot In SumoBot, two robots pit their strength and strategy against one another, somewhat similar to the Sumo wrestling sport. The robots start behind the line at position A and B. When the referee signals the stat of the game, the robots must be activated and make contact with each other. The winning robot is determined through any of the following scenarios.

i. The robot wins by pushing the opposing robot out of the circle.

ii. The robot wins by pushing its opponent such that both robots are in the opponent’s side of the circle at the end of 45 seconds.

iii. If (i) and (ii) do not apply after 45 seconds, the robot furthest away from its individual starting point while pushing its opponent, wins.

SumoBot Competition Playing Field (Drawings not to scale)

A

B



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o The weight of the robot must not exceed 1.1 kg.

o Only LEGO parts set (RCX, NXT & EV3) will be allowed although RCX will be allowed up to three motors and EV3 restricted to 3 motor ports.

o Prior to the competition, robots will undergo inspection. If they don’t

meet the requirements, players will be given 15 minutes to modify, otherwise, they will be disqualified.

o Non-LEGO parts will not be allowed.

o Maximum of 5 members per team.

The overall winner is decided through a “knockout” system of play. The Referee’s decision is FINAL.

Sprint Race

Start A

Sprint Race Playing Field

(Drawings not to scale)

Start B

End A End B


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In the Sprint Race, two robots compete in tracking a black line from one end to the other. The robot that reaches the end point first eliminates its opponent. If a robot deviates from the black line, the opponent robot wins. The overall winner is determined through a knock-out system. Referee’s decision is FINAL.

i. Only parts from LEGO sets (RCX, NXT & EV3) will be allowed although NXT & EV3 will be allowed up to two light sensors and RCX will be allowed up to 3 motors.

ii. Prior to the competition, robots will undergo inspection. If they don’t

qualify for the requirements, players will be given 15 minutes to modify, otherwise, they will be disqualified.

iii. Non-LEGO parts will not be allowed. iv. Maximum of 5 members per team

v. Maximum dimension of the robot is 250mm x 250mm x 250mm

Humanoid Robot Dance Rules and Judging

Rules:

Open to any Humanoid Robot that can perform autonomously.

Humanoid robots can be rented or owned.

Individual or teams of maximum 4 members.

Robot must be programmed only by the team members.

Points will be awarded or deducted accordingly:

Max 10 points for the synchronization of movement to the music.

Max 10 points Originality of music and robot movements.

Max 10 point Smoothness of movements.

Max 10 points Difficulty of movements.

20 points awarded for Stability and not falling. 2 points deducted for each restart if robot falls. 3 points deducted if in participants have to touch/hold robot during dance routine to prevent robot falling.

2 points deducted if routine not between 60 and 90 seconds.


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Challenge Week Schedule (The schedule in tentative and is subjected to changes)

Challenge Preliminary (8 – 9 September 2014) Daily Timetable

0800 Registration at Annexe Foyer Each team will be assigned a booth number and a playing field number

0815 Quarantine begins. All visitors are to vacate from the quarantine area.

0830 Briefing for all teams in the Competition

Area

Registration For Side Event

0845 Sensor calibration at playing fields

Assembly/re-programming of robots

1000 Robot Controllers to wait at work station for Team Coordinators to bring them to the competition area

1015 Competition begins Mission 1 (Run 1)

1115 Mission 1 (Run 2)

1230 End of AM Competition Session



1345 Briefing for all teams in the Competition

Area

Registration For Side Event



1515 Robot Controllers to wait at work station for Team Coordinators to bring them to the competition area



1745 End of Competition Day

Note*:

Trial playing fields are available for use during periods of quarantine only.


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Day 3 (10 Sept 2014) All Tertiary, Open Category Teams and Other Side Events

Teams



0830 Briefing for all teams in the Competition Area



1000

Robot Controllers to wait at work station for Team Coordinators to bring them to the competition area

Registration For Open Category, Side Events and Humanoid Robot Dance Competition



1230 End of AM Competition Session

1330 Open Category Judging and Humanoid Robot Dance Competition

1745 End of Competition day


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Day 4 (11 Sept 2014) LEGO Space Competition (EV3)



0830 Briefing for all teams in the Competition Area



1215 End of Practice Sessions

1230 LUNCH

1330 Quarantine begins

1400 Run 1

1500 Run 2

1600 End of Competition day


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Grand Finals Day (12 September 2014)

(The schedule in tentative and is subjected to changes)

Timetable

0800

Registration at Annexe Foyer Each team is assigned a booth number and a playing field number Hall closed to public/schools Only qualifying teams are allowed in Booth Area

0830 Briefing/Surprise Mission announcement

0850 Booth area quarantine begins

0900 Surprise Mission preparation begins

0930 Hall open to public/schools

1030 Registration for Side Events and Open Category

1135 Teams are to bring their robots to Robots Quarantine Area

1150 Booth area quarantine ends

1155 Lunch

1300 Surprise Mission

1430 Setup of Side Events, Open Category Finale and Best Performance Showcase

1515 Arrival of the Guest of Honour

1600 Closing Ceremony and Prizes Presentation

1700 End of Competition


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The 2014 World Robot Olympiad (WRO 2014) The 2014 World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Competition is a worldwide robotics competition. Participants must progress through a number of qualifying stages (the NJRC) before they can be selected to participate in the 2014 WRO final. This year, the WRO will be held in Sochi, Russia from 21 to 23 November 2014. Individuals/teams interested in participating in the competition should direct enquiries to the National Organizers (Science Centre Singapore). Further details and rules of the competition can be found at http://www.wro2014.org/welcome_to_rus/ The following award winners from NJRC 2014 will be sponsored by NJRC and represent Singapore in WRO 2014:

1. The Best Robot Performance Award – Primary Division 2. The Best Robot Performance Award – Secondary Division 3. The Best Robot Performance Award – Tertiary Division 4. Championship Award – Tertiary Division 5. Winner of Open Category

http://www.wro2014.org/welcome_to_rus/


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Important Dates to Remember Registration Deadline for the Open Category and Side Event All entry forms must reach us by Saturday, 23 August 2014.

Presentation Week 1 September to 4 September 2014 – Preliminaries 6 September 2014 – Presentation Finals Schedule for Presentation preliminaries will be uploaded to the official NJRC website http://www.njrc.com.sg Challenge Week 8 September to 10 September 2014 – Preliminaries 11 September 2014 – Special Events 12 September 2014 – Challenge Finals Schedule for Challenge preliminaries will be uploaded to the official NJRC website http://www.njrc.com.sg Side Events and Open Category 8 September to 10 September 2014 – Preliminaries 10 September 2014 – Open Category 12 September 2014 – Grand Finals



njrc 2014 challenge announcement

Documents

njrc pg

years njrc

njrc awards pg

division pg

njrc event

format of competition

fields pg

challenge manual