What is FTC Robotics?

1. Robot Design and Build: Teams of students design, build, and program robots to compete in various challenges. The robots are built from a variety of components, including motors, sensors, and controllers, and can be customized to complete specific tasks.

2. Programming: Students program their robots using languages like Java or Blocks, depending on their skill level and the requirements of the competition. Programming allows the robots to perform autonomous tasks as well as respond to remote control commands.

3. Competition: Each season, FTC releases a new game with specific objectives. The robots must complete tasks related to that game, which might involve moving objects, navigating obstacles, or working with other robots.

4. Teams: Teams typically consist of 10 or more students who work together on various aspects of the project. They also often have mentors who provide guidance and support.

What Does a Robotics Competition Look Like?

1. Field Setup: The competition field is a large area with obstacles, scoring zones, and other features designed around the game’s theme. Each match is played on this field.

2. Matches: During a match, robots are given a set amount of time to perform tasks. This could involve scoring points by moving objects, interacting with field elements, or completing challenges. Matches are usually 2 minutes long, split between autonomous and driver-controlled periods.

3. Autonomous Period: At the start of each match, robots operate autonomously based on pre-programmed instructions. This period typically lasts about 30 seconds.

4. Driver-Controlled Period: After the autonomous period, teams manually control their robots for the remaining time of the match. Teams use game controllers to maneuver their robots and execute strategies.

5. Scoring: Points are awarded based on how well the robots complete the game’s objectives. The team with the highest score at the end of the match wins.

6. Judging and Awards: In addition to match scores, teams are judged on their engineering process, design, and presentation. Awards are given for various aspects like innovation, teamwork, and robot design.

7. Team Spirit and Collaboration: Beyond the competition, teams often exhibit a strong spirit of collaboration and sportsmanship. They share knowledge, cheer each other on, and sometimes work together in alliance matches.

FTC competitions are a blend of engineering challenges, programming, and teamwork, all wrapped in a fun and engaging event. They provide a great opportunity for students to apply STEM skills in a practical, competitive environment.

Team Wire Fire's First Match, Rose City League 2023

Robotics

FTC, or FIRST Tech Challenge, is a robotics competition for middle and high school students. It’s part of the broader FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) program, which aims to inspire young people to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.

What is First Tech Challenge (FTC)?

2023 ROBOTS

Robot 1:

High Score:

67

Competitions:

Meet 0, 1, and 2

Type:

Push bot

Robot 2:

High Score:

140

Competitions:

Meet 3, Quali, and State

Type:

Multi-functional

The goal for 2023 was to minimize potential issues by designing a build that achieved all objectives without unnecessary parts or excess weight. We focused on making moving parts succinct and compact. The challenge was to curb our inclination towards complex components and instead prioritize simplicity in our design.