In addition to the head on head competition, the VEX Robotics Competition (VRC) also includes two single bot challenges. Programming Skills tests the team’s bility to write autonomous code to score points. There are white lines on the playing field for line followers, and use of ultra sonic range sensors and light sensors is encouraged. My favorite though is the Robot Skills(or Driver Skills) Challenge which tests the driver’s ability to score points in a 60 second round.
Both of the finalists in this year’s World Championship for the Robot Skills scored a perfect score of 60 points in the qualifying rounds. Team 1114a, the Simbotics from Ontario, and team 2213a, ECA Robotics from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico went head to head in the finals with the Simbotics squeeking out a victory.
Check out the video of 2213a’s 60 point qualification match and get an idea why the Puerto Rican teams won the Energy award. These guys really know how to have fun and celebrate. Warning, it gets a little loud near the end.
If you have links to any of the team websites, please let me know and I’ll update this article.
