Sumo Bot Prep and Competition

We spent most of April and May preparing for a SumoBot competition at the Triangle Math and Science Academy (TMSA) on 5/21.  We used the robot from state competition with modifications and also the SugoBot.  The kids loved personalizing the robots and competing with them.  

We spent a lot of time breaking down the code necessary to stay on the table and to try to push the opponent off.  The kids learned about reflected light intensity on black vs. white and how to use Port View on the robot to check the current values.  

Part of their strategy was to increase the robot weight to the max (1000kg or 2.2lbs) and to put good armor around the robot.  

The kids got to pick their own teams.

Competition consisted of 40 teams and was divided up by age (middle vs. elementary) and weight.  Johnny and Gavin lost first round but had long, intense matches.  Luke and Jacob's robot went on to round two where it was eliminated.  Zoe's robot gave a good fight but also lost in round one.  And, I'm very sorry to say that Caroline, Beth, and Zoe's robot was disqualified because the code failed to have it completely leave the box.  That was quite sad.  Still, the competition was fun and friendly.

Sometimes it is fun to compete with more than two robots at once!

Our TMSA SumoBot experience via video.

Meeting 030216

At our Wednesday, March 2nd, 2016 meeting, we learned about using the color sensor to trace lines and about using the ultrasonic or infrared sensors to detect objects. Both of these skills are necessary to prepare for the sumobot competition that we'll be gearing up for in May. I have an e-mail from TMSA (Triangle Math and Science Academy) that they do plan to host sumobots again. Yippee! More info, like a date, when I have it.

Presentations:
Line Following
Object Detection

I have some follow-up work to do with the color sensor.  The exercise didn't go as planned.  Oops!

I would like the kids to read chapters 7 and 8 in their books to reinforce the concepts we went over. Also, please have the kids bring their binders and books back to our meetings until further notice.

Non Lego Computer Programming Activities

Since we finished our preparation for the NC FLL State competition, and competed, we've been doing some other computer science activities.  First, we used the activities on the CS Unplugged website to learn about Simple Sort, Bubble Sort, and Divide and Conquer.  I just love these activities because they don't require computers or other equipment and really involve the kids in the learning process.

Second, we learned about the Python programming language and how it can totally rock your Minecraft world.  I would love it if some of the kids were interested in teaching themselves some Python using the Adventures in Minecraft book materials.  All that is needed is the book, which I can loan, a PC, Mac or Raspberry PI, and a Minecraft license.  Read more about the book and what it has to offer in this GeekMom review that I wrote.  I also have a new, similar book, called Learning to Program with Minecraft.  The author uses a very similar Python environment.  Thanks to No Starch Press for the review copy of this book!  I'm about half way through the programming exercises and recommend it too.

NC FLL State Tournament

Solving the Sorter

The kids really spent a lot of time trying to dump and sort the bricks they got from Building with Brackets.  Unfortunately, they were out of time to add this solution into their robot run.  Still, it was a good learning experience and showed real endurance sticking with it.