NORTech Robotics Competition Rules

Intended for elementary and middle school students using commonly available educational robots like LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ or similar kits. This activity combines competition with skill-building in robotics and engineering.

The Robotics Triathlon challenges students to design, program and adapt their robots for varied tasks, emphasizing versatility and broad robotics skills. The competition format not only hones their technical abilities but also encourages creativity, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Objective: Each robot will compete in three events — Shuttle Run, Line Dancing and Line-Following — scoring points in each challenge. The robot with the highest combined score across all three events will be the Robotics Triathlon champion.

1. Robot Specifications
   • a. Type: Robots must be assembled from educational robotics kits (e.g., LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ, Makeblock) with programming completed in advance.
   • b. Size and Weight Limits: Robots should not exceed 8 inches in width, 8 inches in length and 12 inches in height, with a weight limit of 2 pounds.
   • c. Sensor and Component Restrictions: Robots can use line-tracking sensors, distance sensors and light sensors, but may not use GPS or external guidance.
2. Event Breakdown
   • a. Event 1: Shuttle Run (Agility Test)
     i. Weighting: This event is weighted at ⅓ of the final score.
   • b. Event 2: Line Dancing (Rhythm and Synchronization)
     i. Weighting: This event is weighted at ⅓ of the final score.
   • c. Event 3: Line Following (Precision and Navigation)
     i. Weighting: This event is weighted at ⅓ of the final score.
3. Scoring and Ranking
   • a. Overall Scoring: Each event is scored individually and points are converted into a ranking for that event. For example, the first-place robot in an event receives one point, second place receives two points and so on.
   • b. Aggregate Scoring: Total scores from all three events are combined to determine the overall ranking. A score of three would be awarded to a robot who placed first in all three events.
   • c. The robot that completes all three events with the lowest aggregate score will be declared the winner.
4. Safety and Conduct
   • a. Robot Safety: Robots must be constructed safely, with no loose or hazardous components.
   • b. Fair Play: Robots may not interfere with other robots or obstruct the track. Unsportsmanlike behavior may result in penalties or disqualification.
   • c. Testing Period: Each team will have a set time before the triathlon starts to calibrate their robots for each event.
5. Awards and Recognition
   • a. Triathlon Champion: Awarded to the team with the highest combined score across all events.
   • b. Event-Specific Awards: Additional recognition for teams achieving the highest score in each event.
   • c. Creativity Award: Given for the most innovative or visually creative robot design.

Intended for elementary and middle school students using commonly available educational robots like LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ or similar kits. This activity combines competition with skill-building in robotics and engineering.

This competition makes programming fun and also challenges students to think creatively about how robots can mimic human actions and rhythms in a lighthearted, music-filled challenge.

Objective: The goal is for students to program a robot to perform dance moves inspired by the Cotton-Eyed Joe line dance. Each robot must navigate a dance floor, synchronizing to the beat and repeating a series of programmed moves. Points are awarded based on timing, creativity and accuracy.

1. Robot Specifications
   • a. Type of Robot: Teams may use robots from common educational kits (LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ, etc.) with all programming done in advance.
   • b. Size Limit: Each robot may be up to 8 inches in width, 8 inches in length and 12 inches in height.
   • c. Weight: Total weight should not exceed 2 pounds.
   • d. Number of Robots: Individual robots will be judged on timing, accuracy, choreography and style. Each school may compete with multiple robots performing a coordinated group of robots for more complex choreography.
2. Dance Floor Setup
   • a. Floor Size: The designated “dance floor” will be a 6x6 foot square marked with a grid for reference, helping robots align their movements.
   • b. Dance Zones: The floor may include up to four designated “dance zones” (marked areas where specific moves need to be executed).
   • c. Lighting and Music: The Cotton-Eyed Joe song will play, with a set beat for timing. Optional lighting cues may be used to help indicate when certain moves should be executed.
3. Dance Move Requirements
   • a. Teams must program their robots to perform a series of moves inspired by line dancing. Required moves may include:
     i. Forward Step and Back Step: Moving forward and backward in sync with the beat.
     ii. Side Step (or Shimmy): Moving to the left or right across the grid.
     iii. 360° Spin: Completing a full spin at specific points in the routine.
     iv. “Do-Si-Do”: If using multiple robots, they must navigate around each other in a circle or square pattern.
     v. Freestyle: An opportunity for teams to incorporate a creative move inspired by their unique robot design.
4. Rules and Scoring Criteria: Robots will receive a score from 1-10 based on the following criteria. The team score will also include a score for uniformity of moves.
   • a. Timing and Rhythm (25%): Robots must keep in sync with the beat, demonstrating timing accuracy and consistency throughout the dance.
   • b. Accuracy of Moves (25%): Each required move must be executed accurately within the designated dance zones. Points are deducted if the robot misses a move or strays from the zone.
   • c. Choreography and Creativity (25%): Teams are encouraged to create innovative moves or combine moves for a unique routine. Creativity in movement, design and synchronization will earn additional points.
   • d. Performance and Style (25%): Robots are encouraged to “dress up” (e.g., hats, cowboy-themed decorations) and show flair through movement to embody the spirit of Cotton-Eyed Joe.
5. Safety and Conduct
   • a. Robot Safety: All robots must be stable and secure; no loose parts or hazardous attachments are allowed.
   • b. Fair Play: Teams may not interfere with other robots on the dance floor. Teams are encouraged to collaborate respectfully and celebrate each other's performances.
6. Competition Format
   • a. Each team will have a 2-minute routine to perform on the dance floor. Judges will score based on the criteria above, with prizes for the best timing, creativity and overall performance.

Intended for elementary and middle school students using commonly available educational robots like LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ or similar kits. This activity combines competition with skill-building in robotics and engineering.

Objective: The goal is for each team to program and control a robot to complete a shuttle run, navigating a straight path to the far end of the field, returning to the start line, and repeating the process for two complete laps as quickly as possible. The robot with the fastest completion time wins.

1. Robot Specifications
   • a. Type: Robots must be created from widely accessible educational kits like LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ, Makeblock, Sphero, etc.
   • b. Size Limit: Robots should not exceed 8 inches in width, 8 inches in length, and 12 inches in height.
   • c. Weight: Total weight should not exceed 2 pounds.
   • d. The robot must have a front and back marked with an arrow towards the forward face.
   • e. Autonomous or Remote-Controlled: Teams may choose either autonomous operation or remote-controlled navigation. Remote-controlled robots will receive a 15-second time penalty.
2. Course Specifications
   • a. Length of Course: The shuttle run path will be a straight 8-foot track with a marked starting line 12 inches from the starting wall and a turnaround line 12 inches from the other end.
   • b. The walls at both ends of the track will be 3.5 inches tall.
   • c. The lane width will be 12 inches and marked with lines.
   • d. There will be a black center line running the length of the course.
   • e. Surface: The track surface will be a smooth, non-slip mat or similar surface to ensure stable movement.
3. Rules for the Shuttle Run
   • a. Task Completion: Robots must complete 2 laps down and back while staying in their lane.
   • b. Turnaround: The robots must turn around when changing direction. (i.e. They may not go forward for one length and then backward for the next.)
   • c. Penalties: There will be a 5-second time penalty if the robot crosses outside designated path lines.
   • d. If a robot comes into contact with another robot, the robot outside of its designated lane will be disqualified for that run.
4. Scoring and Judging Criteria
   • a. The robot with the fastest single time to traverse the course will be the Speed Champion.
   • b. Autonomous advantage: In the event that a robot operating autonomously ties the time with a remotely controlled robot, the autonomous robot will be declared the champion.
   • c. Reliability: The robot with the fastest average time to traverse the course will be declared the Reliability Champion.
   • d. Creativity and Innovation: Judges may recognize unique designs, innovative mechanisms or sensors used to improve shuttle efficiency with the Creativity Champion award.
5. Safety and Fair Play
   • a. All teams must adhere to safety protocols, including secure attachment of parts, stable handling and no intentional obstruction of other robots. Fair play is essential; teams found interfering with others may be disqualified.

Intended for elementary and middle school students using commonly available educational robots like LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ or similar kits. This activity combines competition with skill-building in robotics and engineering.

This competition provides a balance of speed, precision, and problem-solving, making it ideal for students developing practical robotics skills.

Objective: The goal is for each robot to follow a black line on a white surface, navigating curves, sharp turns and straightaways as quickly as possible. The robot that completes the course in the shortest time wins.

1. Robot Specifications
   • a. Type of Robots: Robots must be built from educational robotics kits (e.g., LEGO Mindstorms, VEX IQ, Arduino-based kits).
   • b. Size Limit: Robots cannot exceed 8 inches in width, 8 inches in length and 12 inches in height.
   • c. Weight: Total weight should not exceed 2 pounds.
   • d. Sensors: Each robot can be equipped with light, color or line-tracking sensors to detect the line, but no external guidance or assistance is allowed.
2. Course Specifications
   • a. Track Width: The black line will be 1 inch wide and set against a white surface to provide contrast.
   • b. Course Length: The track will be approximately 10–15 feet long, containing a mix of straight paths, curves and at least one 90° turn.
   • c. Boundaries: Robots must remain within a 3-inch buffer zone around the track. Leaving this buffer zone counts as a "track exit."
3. Race Rules
   • a. Starting and Ending: Robots will start behind a designated line and end when the robot crosses the finish line. Time begins once the robot starts moving and stops when the finish line is crossed.
   • b. Track Exits: If a robot exits the track, the timer pauses and the robot must be placed back on the track at the last exit point. Each track exit incurs a 5-second penalty.
   • c. Sensor Use: Robots must navigate using only their sensors — no remote control is allowed during the race.
   • d. Autonomous Operation: Robots must operate autonomously throughout the course. Any manual intervention disqualifies the robot from that race attempt.
4. Scoring and Timing
   • a. Race Timing: Each team gets two timed attempts and the faster time is recorded. The shortest completion time - after penalties - determines the winner.
   • b. Penalties: A 5-second penalty applies for each track exit or if a robot touches a boundary marker.
   • c. Tiebreaker: In case of a tie, the robot with fewer penalties is declared the winner. If there is still a tie, a third run will be held as a tiebreaker.
5. Safety and Conduct
   • a. Robot Safety: All robots must be securely constructed to avoid breakdowns during the race. Teams must ensure their robots are safe for both participants and the course.
   • b. Fair Play: Teams should not interfere with other robots or obstruct the track. Unsportsmanlike behavior may lead to disqualification.
6. Judging Criteria
   • a. Speed and Accuracy (50%): The primary score is based on completion time after penalties.
   • b. Reliability (30%): Consistent tracking, minimal exits, and smooth handling of curves are key for a high score.
   • c. Innovation (20%): Points are awarded for innovative design elements that enhance line-following capability, such as unique sensor placement or advanced algorithms.
7. Competition Format
   • a. Trial Runs: Teams will have two trial runs to practice on the track before their official attempts.
   • b. Timed Runs: Each team completes two timed runs, with the fastest counted toward final scoring.