Robofest FAQ

 

�        What is the ideal team size?   Robofest requires two robots for each team. We recommend 2 or 3 students per robot. Therefore ideal team size is 4 or 6.

 

�        How often and for how long do teams typically meet in preparation for the competition?  They can practice anywhere even at home, because the playing field is portable and modular. If they have some experience, then one two hour meeting per week in Jan and Feb. Two meetings per week in March till the regional competition.   The focus is on Programming.

 

�        Is it comparable to preparation for the FIRST Lego League season?  Since Robofest does not have extra things like a research presentation, it will be about 2/3 of FLL efforts.

 

�        Is there a single season-end competition (apart from the World-Fest), or are there multiple events in which teams can participate?  A team can participate in only one regional or International competition. If they qualify, they will be invited to compete at the World Robofest Championships in May.

 

�        I see the age range is 5th through 12th grades.  Is this merely a recommendation?  Is there a clearly defined age cut-off date?  Can younger, advanced kids participate?  Our general rule is that playing up is fine. But playing down requires Lawrence Tech Robofest organizer's permission. 

 

�        What types of materials can we use on our robot?  You may use any type of robot platform you would like.   You can use any type of material, including glue, tape, paints, stickers, etc.  We encourage your creativity.

 

�        What is the Robofest Exhibition?  The Exhibition is an opportunity for students to demonstrate any type of robotics project.  Robots can dance, play the piano, make hamburgers, play soccer, etc.  We encourage full creativity.  For 2006, there will be two Exhibition Divisions, one Junior and one Senior.

 

�        How does the �unveiled unknown mission work?�  A portion of the Competition mission is unveiled the day of the competition during the opening ceremonies.  Students must program their robots without adult assistance after the unveiled mission is announced and demonstrated. Thus, adults are not allowed in the team pit area after the unveiling of the unknown mission.

 

�        I am a coach who has competed before and I am interested in taking my team to a higher programming level. I am not familiar with any of the higher levels, (C or Java). Can you help me with a source of training or instruction that will aid me?  Lawrence Technological University will schedule a series of workshops starting in December to help students and coaches. Also visit the following link: http://www.robofest.net/resources.htm

 

�        I would like to start a neighborhood team to compete in Robofest.  Does a team have to be from a school?  Robofest encourages all types of teams; home schools, private schools, public schools, neighborhood groups, civic groups, clubs, churches, scouts, etc.