Engineering (Robotics)

The participant in the robotics category must design a robot that accomplishes a specific purpose.

Robotics teaches practical engineering, technology, and math concepts.

A successful Robotics entry must have the following:

Description paper explaining operation and functionality of all components - can include illustrations and/or images
Mock-up of key components or fully functional robot

Additional judging will be based on the following:

Purpose of robot logical and explainable
Mechanical design is elegant and appropriate
Efficient parts use, with no extraneous pieces (except pieces specifically for decoration)
Manipulators are used as needed to do tasks appropriate to their design
If mobile, drive train is accurate, consistent, and controllable
If mobile, steering system is accurate, consistent, and controllable
Sensors are used appropriately / Sensors guarantee certain actions in every trial
Design allows for variables (power, environment, etc.)
Software Programs (if applicable) do what is needed, with allowance for variables
Software Programs (if applicable) are documented, explained, and understood
Safety considerations are in place
Description paper describes purpose of robot as a whole
Description paper describes operation of individual components
Each component/sub-system is described, with no needed components missing
Illustrations/Images appropriate and understandable (and labeled correctly)
Description paper organized and well written
The system presented is innovative and creative
The robot shows completeness of thought and cause and effect are clearly explained
The robot relates to real world applications
The robot and/or it’s purpose is original or innovative
The methodology/materials/design are innovative or creative in approach
Degree of complexity