2024-2025 FIRST® Tech Challenge Competition Manual PDF

2024-2025 FIRST® Tech Challenge INTO THE DEEP Competition Manual INTO THE DEEP Competition Manual Contents 1 Introduction............................................................................................................................................... 7 1.1 About FIRST®...................................................................................................................................... 7 1.2 FIRST® Tech Challenge...................................................................................................................... 7 1.3 Gracious Professionalism®, a FIRST Credo...................................................................................... 7 1.4 Coopertition®...................................................................................................................................... 8 1.5 Spirit of Volunteering......................................................................................................................... 8 1.6 Accessibility and Inclusion................................................................................................................ 9 1.7 This Document & Its Conventions.................................................................................................... 9 1.8 Translations & Other Versions........................................................................................................ 11 1.9 Team Updates.................................................................................................................................. 11 1.10 Question and Answer System......................................................................................................... 11 2 FIRST Season Overview.......................................................................................................................... 13 3 Competition Eligibility and Inspection (I)............................................................................................... 15 3.1 Team Eligibility Rules...................................................................................................................... 15 3.2 Awards Eligibility Rules................................................................................................................... 16 3.3 MATCH Eligibility Rules................................................................................................................... 16 4 Advancement........................................................................................................................................... 19 5 Event Rules (E)......................................................................................................................................... 21 5.1 General Rules................................................................................................................................... 21 5.2 Machine Shops and Host Team Build Spaces.............................................................................. 24 5.3 Wireless Rules.................................................................................................................................. 24 5.4 Load-In.............................................................................................................................................. 25 5.5 Pits.................................................................................................................................................... 25 5.6 ROBOT Carts.................................................................................................................................... 27 5.7 Ceremonies...................................................................................................................................... 27 5.8 In the Stands.................................................................................................................................... 28 6 Awards (A)............................................................................................................................................... 29 6.1 Team Judged Awards Overview and Schedule............................................................................. 29 6.2 Team Judged Award Descriptions................................................................................................. 35 6.2.1 Inspire Award............................................................................................................................ 35 6.2.2 Think Award.............................................................................................................................. 36 6.2.3 Connect Award......................................................................................................................... 36 6.2.4 Motivate Award........................................................................................................................ 37 6.2.5 Innovate Award sponsored by RTX......................................................................................... 37 6.2.6 Control Award........................................................................................................................... 38 2 of 144 6.2.7 Design Award........................................................................................................................... 38 6.2.8 Judges’ Choice Award............................................................................................................. 39 6.3 Tournament ALLIANCE Awards..................................................................................................... 39 6.3.1 Winning Alliance Award........................................................................................................... 39 6.3.2 Finalist Alliance Award............................................................................................................ 39 6.4 Individual Awards............................................................................................................................ 39 6.4.1 Dean’s List Award.................................................................................................................... 39 6.4.2 Compass Award....................................................................................................................... 39 7 Game Sponsor Recognition.................................................................................................................... 41 8 Game Overview........................................................................................................................................ 43 9 ARENA...................................................................................................................................................... 45 9.1 FIELD................................................................................................................................................. 46 9.2 Areas, Zones, & Markings................................................................................................................ 46 9.3 TILE Coordinates............................................................................................................................. 47 9.4 ALLIANCE AREA............................................................................................................................... 48 9.5 SUBMERSIBLE.................................................................................................................................. 49 9.5.1 CHAMBERS............................................................................................................................... 50 9.5.2 RUNGS...................................................................................................................................... 51 9.6 BASKETS.......................................................................................................................................... 52 9.7 SCORING ELEMENTS...................................................................................................................... 53 9.7.1 SAMPLES.................................................................................................................................. 53 9.7.2 CLIP........................................................................................................................................... 54 9.7.3 SPECIMEN................................................................................................................................ 54 9.8 AprilTags.......................................................................................................................................... 55 9.9 FIELD STAFF.................................................................................................................................... 56 9.10 Event Management System............................................................................................................ 57 10 Game Details........................................................................................................................................ 59 10.1 MATCH Overview............................................................................................................................. 59 10.2 DRIVE TEAM..................................................................................................................................... 59 10.3 Setup................................................................................................................................................. 60 10.3.1 SCORING ELEMENTS............................................................................................................... 61 10.3.2 DRIVE TEAMS........................................................................................................................... 62 10.3.3 OPERATOR CONSOLES........................................................................................................... 62 10.3.4 ROBOTS.................................................................................................................................... 63 10.4 MATCH Periods............................................................................................................................... 63 10.5 Scoring.............................................................................................................................................. 63 10.5.1 SAMPLE Scoring Criteria......................................................................................................... 64 10.5.2 SPECIMEN Scoring Criteria..................................................................................................... 64 10.5.3 ROBOT Scoring Criteria............................................................................................................ 65 10.5.4 Point Values.............................................................................................................................. 66 10.6 Violations.......................................................................................................................................... 66 10.6.1 YELLOW and RED CARDS........................................................................................................ 67 10.6.2 YELLOW and RED CARD application....................................................................................... 68 3 of 144 10.6.3 YELLOW and RED CARDS during playoff MATCHES............................................................. 68 10.6.4 Violation Details....................................................................................................................... 68 10.7 Head REFEREE................................................................................................................................. 69 10.8 Other Logistics................................................................................................................................. 69 11 Game Rules (G).................................................................................................................................... 71 11.1 Personal Safety................................................................................................................................ 71 11.2 Conduct............................................................................................................................................ 71 11.3 Pre-MATCH...................................................................................................................................... 75 11.4 In-MATCH......................................................................................................................................... 78 11.4.1 AUTO......................................................................................................................................... 78 11.4.2 TELEOP..................................................................................................................................... 79 11.4.3 SCORING ELEMENT................................................................................................................. 79 11.4.4 ROBOT....................................................................................................................................... 81 11.4.5 Opponent Interaction............................................................................................................... 83 11.4.6 Human...................................................................................................................................... 85 11.5 Post-MATCH.................................................................................................................................... 87 12 ROBOT Construction Rules (R)........................................................................................................... 89 12.1 General ROBOT Design.................................................................................................................... 91 12.2 ROBOT Safety & Damage Prevention............................................................................................. 95 12.3 Fabrication....................................................................................................................................... 96 12.4 ROBOT SIGN Rules.......................................................................................................................... 98 12.5 Motors & Actuators....................................................................................................................... 101 12.6 Power Distribution......................................................................................................................... 104 12.7 Control, Command & Signals System.......................................................................................... 110 12.8 Pneumatic Systems....................................................................................................................... 115 12.9 OPERATOR CONSOLE................................................................................................................... 115 13 Tournament (T).................................................................................................................................. 119 13.1 Overview......................................................................................................................................... 119 13.2 General Tournament Rules........................................................................................................... 119 13.3 MATCH Replays............................................................................................................................. 120 13.4 Clarifications on MATCH Play Results (“Question Box”)............................................................ 122 13.5 Qualification MATCHES................................................................................................................ 123 13.5.1 Schedule................................................................................................................................. 123 13.5.2 MATCH Assignment.............................................................................................................. 123 13.5.3 Qualification Ranking............................................................................................................. 124 13.6 Playoff MATCHES.......................................................................................................................... 125 13.6.1 ALLIANCE Selection Process................................................................................................ 126 13.6.2 Playoff MATCH Bracket......................................................................................................... 126 13.6.3 2-ALLIANCE Bracket and Typical Timing............................................................................. 128 13.6.4 4-ALLIANCE Bracket and Typical Timing............................................................................. 129 13.6.5 6-ALLIANCE Bracket and Typical Timing............................................................................. 130 13.6.6 8-ALLIANCE Bracket and Typical Timing............................................................................. 131 13.7 Dual Division Events...................................................................................................................... 133 4 of 144 13.7.1 Dual Division playoffs............................................................................................................ 133 14 League Play Tournaments (L).......................................................................................................... 135 15 FIRST Championship (C)................................................................................................................... 137 15.1 Advancement to the FIRST Championship.................................................................................. 137 15.2 Game Modification........................................................................................................................ 137 15.3 3-ROBOT ALLIANCES.................................................................................................................... 137 15.4 FIRST Championship Pit Crews.................................................................................................... 138 15.5 FIRST Championship playoffs...................................................................................................... 138 16 Glossary............................................................................................................................................. 139 5 of 144 1 Introduction 1.1 About FIRST® FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest in science and technology. As a robotics community that prepares young people for the future, FIRST is the world’s leading youth-serving nonprofit advancing STEM education. For 30 years, FIRST has combined the rigor of STEM learning with the fun and excitement of traditional sports and the inspiration that comes from community through programs that have a proven impact on learning, interest, and skill-building inside and outside of the classroom. FIRST provides programs that span a variety of age groups: − FIRST® Robotics Competition for grades 9-12, ages 14-18 − FIRST® Tech Challenge for grades 7-12, ages 12-18 − FIRST® LEGO® League for grades Pre-K-8, ages 4-16 o FIRST® LEGO® League Challenge for grades 4-8 (ages 9-16, ages vary by country) o FIRST® LEGO® League Explore for grades 2-4 (ages 6-10) o FIRST® LEGO® League Discover for grades Pre-K-1 (ages 4-6) Please visit the FIRST website for more information about FIRST and its programs. 1.2 FIRST® Tech Challenge FIRST Tech Challenge is a student-centered program that focuses on giving young people a unique and stimulating experience. Each year, small teams of students with the help of mentors engage in a new dynamic challenge where they design, build, test, and program robots that must perform a series of game tasks autonomously and under driver control. Participants and alumni of FIRST programs gain access to education and career discovery opportunities, connections to exclusive scholarships and employers, and a place in the FIRST community for life. To learn more about FIRST® Tech Challenge and other FIRST® Programs, visit www.firstinspires.org. 1.3 Gracious Professionalism®, a FIRST Credo Gracious Professionalism® is part of the ethos of FIRST. It’s a way of doing things that encourages high quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. Gracious Professionalism is not clearly defined for a reason. It can and should mean different things to everyone. Some possible meanings of Gracious Professionalism include: − gracious attitudes and behaviors are win-win, − gracious folks respect others and let that respect show in their actions, − professionals possess special knowledge and are trusted by society to use that knowledge responsibly, and − gracious professionals make a valued contribution in a manner pleasing to others and to themselves. In the context of FIRST, this means that all teams and participants should: − learn to be strong competitors, but also treat one another with respect and kindness in the process and − avoid leaving anyone feeling as if they are excluded or unappreciated. Section 1 Introduction V2 7 of 144 Knowledge, pride, and empathy should be comfortably and genuinely blended. In the end, Gracious Professionalism is part of pursuing a meaningful life. When professionals use knowledge in a gracious manner and individuals act with integrity and sensitivity, everyone wins and society benefits. Figure 1-1: Dr. Woodie Flowers, Gracious Professionalism advocate and exemplar “The FIRST spirit encourages doing high-quality, well-informed work in a manner that leaves everyone feeling valued. Gracious Professionalism seems to be a good descriptor for part of the ethos of FIRST. It is part of what makes FIRST different and wonderful.” - Dr. Woodie Flowers, (1943 – 2019) Distinguished Advisor to FIRST It is a good idea to spend time going over this concept with your team and reinforcing it regularly. We recommend providing your team with real-life examples of Gracious Professionalism in practice, such as when a team loans valuable materials or expertise to another team that they will later face as an opponent in competition. Routinely highlight opportunities to display Gracious Professionalism at events and encourage team members to suggest ways in which they can demonstrate this quality themselves and through outreach activities. 1.4 Coopertition® At FIRST, Coopertition® is displaying unqualified kindness and respect in the face of fierce competition. Coopertition is founded on the concept and philosophy that teams can and should help and cooperate with one another even as they compete. Coopertition involves learning from teammates and mentors. Coopertition means competing always but assisting and enabling others when you can. 1.5 Spirit of Volunteering FIRST can only hope to achieve our mission of providing life-changing robotics programs that give young people the skills, confidence, and resilience to build a better world with your help. There are two phrases which drive and motivate the individuals that volunteer their time for FIRST: “Giving Back” and “Pay It Forward.” Each year, you have the extraordinary opportunity to help create the best-ever experience for our fellow volunteers, mentors, and students by becoming a FIRST volunteer. To our team members and mentors: remember that the volunteers you interact with are dedicating their most precious asset - their time - to ensure that all teams have a fulfilling, fun, and memorable competition. Section 1 Introduction V2 8 of 144 Volunteers are the lifeblood of FIRST, and without them, FIRST would not be where it is today. We urge you to remember that Gracious Professionalism is part of the ethos of FIRST. It's a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community. We strive to train each volunteer to always exhibit Gracious Professionalism - we hope we can work together to create an environment where all feel safe and welcome. Please consider volunteering at local events near you but know that not all applicants can be placed in all roles at any given event. Please work with your volunteer coordinator and local Program Delivery Partner (PDP) to help identify the most meaningful way you can help in your region. A complete set of all role-specific volunteer materials can be found on our Volunteer Resources Page. 1.6 Accessibility and Inclusion FIRST is committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and as such, FIRST makes reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities that request accommodation. If a participant needs accommodation for an event, please contact your local leadership before the event so they can help ensure the accommodation is provided. Local leadership may make exceptions to rules to allow for reasonable accommodation given the exceptions do not create an undue hardship or cause safety concerns. 1.7 This Document & Its Conventions The 2024 Competition Manual is a resource for all FIRST Tech Challenge teams for information specific to the 2024 season and the INTO THE DEEPSM presented by RTX game. Its audience will find the following detail: − a general overview of the INTO THE DEEP game, − detail about the INTO THE DEEP playing FIELD, − a description of how to play the INTO THE DEEP game, − rules (related to safety, conduct, gameplay, inspection, event, etc.), − ROBOT construction rules, and − a description of how teams advance at 2024-2025 tournaments and throughout the season. The intent of this manual is that the text means exactly, and only, what it says. Please avoid interpreting the text based on assumptions about intent, implementation of past rules, or how a situation might be in “real life.” There are no hidden requirements or restrictions. If you’ve read everything, you know everything. Specific methods are used throughout this manual to highlight warnings, cautions, key words, and phrases. These conventions are used to alert the reader to important information and are intended to help teams in constructing a ROBOT that complies with the rules in a safe manner. Links to other section headings and rule references within this manual appear in blue underlined text with a grey background. Links to external resources appear blue underlined text. For linked references not included in a preview release of this document, the links will appear with the section letter and ### for the rules number within square brackets. For example, a cross link to a game rule before a game rule is released will appear as [G###] and will be replaced with the current linked rule when that section of the manual is released. Key words that have a particular meaning within the context of FIRST Tech Challenge and INTO THE DEEP are defined in section 16 Glossary and indicated in ALL CAPS throughout this document. Section 1 Introduction V2 9 of 144 The rule numbering method indicates the section, subsection, and position of the rule within that subsection. The letter indicates the section in which the rule is published. − I for Section 3 Competition Eligibility and Inspection (I) − E for Section 5 Event Rules (E) − A for Section 6 Awards (A) − G for Section 11 Game Rules (G) − R for Section 12 ROBOT Construction Rules (R) − T for Section 13 Tournament (T) − L for Section 14 League Play Tournaments (L) − C for Section 15 FIRST Championship (C) The following digit(s) represents the subsection in which the rule can be found. The final digits indicate the rule’s position within that subsection. Figure 1-2 Rule numbering method Warnings, cautions, and notes appear in orange boxes. Pay close attention to their contents as they’re intended to provide insight into the reasoning behind a rule, helpful information on understanding or interpreting a rule, and/or possible “best practices” for use when implementing systems affected by a rule. While orange boxes are part of the manual, they do not carry the weight of the actual rule (if there is an inadvertent conflict between a rule and its orange box, the rule supersedes the language in the orange box). Imperial dimensions are followed by comparable metric dimensions in parentheses to provide metric users with the approximate size, mass, etc. Metric conversions (e.g., dimensions) round to the nearest tenths, e.g., "17.5 in. (~44.5 cm).” The metric conversions are offered for convenient reference only and do not overrule or take the place of the imperial dimensions presented in this manual and the official drawings (i.e., dimensions and rules will always defer to measurements using imperial units). Rules include colloquial language, also called headlines, in an effort to convey an abbreviated version of the rule or rule set. There are two versions of headline formatting. Evergreen rules, rules which are expected to go relatively unchanged from season to season, are indicated with their headline presented in *bold green text with a leading asterisk. “Relatively unchanged” means that the overall intent and presence of the rule from season to season is constant, but game specific terms may be updated as needed (e.g., changing Cones to Pixels in a rule about what DRIVE COACHES may not contact during a MATCH). These rules also start their respective section, so their rule number is less likely to change from season to season. All other rule headlines use bold orange text. Any disagreement between the specific language used in the rules and the colloquial language is an error, and the specific rule language is the ultimate authority. If you discover a disparity, please let us know at [email protected]. Section 1 Introduction V2 10 of 144 Team resources that are not generally season specific (for example, what to expect at an event, communication resources, team organization recommendations, and award descriptions) can be found on the FIRST Tech Challenge website. 1.8 Translations & Other Versions The FIRST Tech Challenge Competition Manual is originally and officially written in English and is occasionally translated into other languages for the benefit of FIRST Tech Challenge teams whose native language may not be English. These assets are posted on the Translated Manuals page. A text-based English version can be provided only for use with assistive devices and not for redistribution. For more information, please contact FIRST Tech Challenge at [email protected]. In the event that a rule or description is modified in an alternate version of this manual, the latest English PDF version as published on the Game and Season web page is the authoritative version. 1.9 Team Updates Team Updates are used to notify the FIRST Tech Challenge community of revisions to the official season documentation (for example, the manual, drawings, etc.) or important season news. Team Update posts are scheduled as follows: − Every other Thursday beginning on kickoff day and ending two weeks prior to FIRST Championship. Team Updates are posted on the Game and Season web page and are generally posted at 1pm Eastern. Team Updates are indicated using the following formatting: − Additions are highlighted in yellow. This is an example. − Deletions are indicated with a strikethrough. This is an example. 1.10 Question and Answer System The Question and Answer System (Q&A) is a resource for teams to ask questions about gameplay, competition rules, judging and advancement, ROBOT build rules, and FIELD setup. Teams can search for previously asked questions and responses or pose new questions. Questions can include examples for clarity or reference multiple rules to understand the relationships and differences between them. The Q&A opens on September 16, 2024, 12:00p.m. ET. Access to the Game Q&A forum is through the Lead Coach/Mentor 1 and/or Lead Coach/Mentor 2’s account on the FIRST dashboard. Follow the instructions on how to create an official Q&A account. Teams may still create a separate view-only account to read the forum. The Q&A may result in revisions to the text in the official manuals (which are communicated using the process described in section 1.9 Team Updates). Moderators will answer team questions beginning each Monday, and close on Thursday at 12:00pm ET. The responses in the Q&A do not supersede the text in the manual, although every effort will be made to eliminate inconsistencies between the two. While responses provided in the Q&A may be used to aid discussion at each event, REFEREES and INSPECTORS are the ultimate authority on rules. If you have concerns about enforcement trends by volunteer authorities, please notify FIRST at [email protected]. Section 1 Introduction V2 11 of 144 The Q&A is not a resource for firm predictions on how a situation will play out at an event. Questions about the following may not be addressed: − rulings on vague situations − challenging decisions made at past events − design reviews of a ROBOT system for legality − questions that are overly broad, vague, and/or include no rule references Some examples of questions that may not be answered in the Q&A are: − how should the REFEREE have ruled when this specific gameplay happened? − duplicate questions − questions clearly defined/addressed in this manual Good questions ask generically about features of parts or designs, gameplay scenarios, or rules, and often reference one or more relevant rules within the question. Some examples of questions that will likely be answered in the Q&A are: − A device we are considering using on the ROBOT comes with purple AWG 40 wire, does this comply with R?? and R?? − We’re not sure how to interpret Rule G?? applies if blue ROBOT A does X and red ROBOT B does Y, can you please clarify? − If a ROBOT does this specific action, is it doing what this defined term is describing? Questions from “FTC 1000” represent content asked by key volunteers (e.g., REFEREES, INSPECTORS), answered by FIRST, and are considered relevant to teams. Section 1 Introduction V2 12 of 144 2 FIRST Season Overview Explore the Future The ocean is more than what you can see on the horizon. Beneath the surface lies our planet’s most complex ecosystems, full of life and potential for exploration and learning, where each inhabitant has a role to play in building a thriving environment. During the 2024-2025 FIRST season, FIRST® DIVE℠ presented by Qualcomm, teams will use their STEM and collaboration skills to explore life beneath the surface of the ocean. Along the way, we’ll uncover the potential in each of us to strengthen our community and innovate for a better world with healthy oceans. Join us as we explore the future. Section 2 FIRST Season Overview V2 13 of 144 3 Competition Eligibility and Inspection (I) 3.1 Team Eligibility Rules I101 *Teams must be registered with FIRST. Teams must be “competition ready” in order to compete in FIRST Tech Challenge official events and earn MATCH points or be eligible for judged awards. A. North America - competition ready requirements: i. complete annual registration process through the FIRST dashboard ii. pay annual registration fee iii. two adults must be assigned in the Lead Coach/Mentor 1/Lead Coach/Mentor 2 roles and have passed Youth Protection Program (YPP) screening iv. register all youth team members on the FIRST dashboard B. Outside North America - competition ready requirements: i. complete annual registration process through the FIRST dashboard ii. complete any additional requirements by the local FIRST Program Delivery Partner with regards to program fees, registrations and youth protection screening. The local Program Delivery Partner may make exceptions for delayed payment on a case-by-case basis. Teams who have not paid annual registration fees will not earn any official season record and will not be allowed to advance. I102 *Check-in at the event on time. Teams must check-in by the check-in deadline listed on the public event schedule or as instructed by the Event Director. Check-in must be completed by a team adult and at least one STUDENT must be present at the venue before check-in can be completed. Additional check-in requirements will vary by region but may require one or more of the following items: A. team roster from the team’s FIRST dashboard (North America only) B. local Program Delivery Partner team member registration or consent forms (varies by region) C. A ROBOT built to play the current season’s game if they intend to participate in MATCHES D. printed judging support materials (optional, see section 6 Awards (A)) All teams, regardless of how “ready” they think they are, are encouraged to participate in ROBOT gameplay and judging. Teams are encouraged to reach out to their Program Delivery Partner and other teams to request help getting their ROBOT ready to compete before attending an event. Teams who do not wish to or do not feel ready to participate in judging or ROBOT gameplay should notify their Program Delivery Partner before the event if at all possible, for scheduling purposes. I103 *A responsible adult must be present for the whole event. At least one, preferably two, adult(s) responsible for the STUDENT team members must be present at all times during the event. Adults attending FIRST Tech Challenge events are expected to follow the same rules as youth participants. Section 3 Competition Eligibility and V2 15 of 144 Inspection (I) 3.2 Awards Eligibility Rules Complete details and rules about FIRST Tech Challenge judged awards can be found in section 6 Awards (A). Notable changes from last season: A. Control Award does not have a separate submission form and should be included in the PORTFOLIO. B. Promote Award has been retired. C. not submitting a PORTFOLIO no longer eliminates a team from all Judged Award considerations. D. recording audio or video is not permitted during interviews. 3.3 MATCH Eligibility Rules This section describes the rules governing MATCH participation. A team has participated in a MATCH if any member of their DRIVE TEAM is in the ALLIANCE AREA, with or without the ROBOT on the FIELD, at the start of the MATCH. This section describes the rules and requirements for team participation in MATCH play. ROBOTS are required to pass ROBOT inspections before being allowed to compete. These inspections are to help ensure that all section 12 ROBOT Construction Rules (R) are satisfied. At each event, the lead ROBOT INSPECTOR (LRI) has final authority on the legality of any COMPONENT, MECHANISM, or ROBOT. INSPECTORS may re-inspect ROBOTS at any time to ensure compliance with the rules. Teams are expected to consult with INSPECTORS or the LRI if they have any questions regarding the legality of a ROBOT or about how to make a ROBOT legal. The inspection process may progress in blocks, i.e., it may pause for a team to make a correction. The process may employ various INSPECTORS throughout the process based on availability. At the team’s discretion, they may request a different INSPECTOR or invite the lead ROBOT INSPECTOR to participate in their ROBOT’S inspection. Events may assign specific inspection time slots for teams to better facilitate a quick and orderly inspection process. Teams should plan to report to their assigned inspection times fully ready to complete inspection. Prior to the start of a MATCH, any ROBOT which is unable or ineligible to participate in that MATCH, as determined by the team, FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA), LRI, or Head REFEREE, is DISABLED and can be removed from the FIELD with permission of the Head REFEREE or FTA. A team whose ROBOT is DISABLED or not present is eligible to receive qualification MATCH Points or playoff MATCH points provided that its ROBOT has passed inspection, per I302, and as long as at least one STUDENT DRIVE TEAM member is present in the ALLIANCE AREA. An Inspection Checklist is available to help teams self-inspect their ROBOT before their event. Teams are strongly encouraged to self-inspect prior to their event. I301 *It is your team’s ROBOT. The ROBOT and its MAJOR MECHANISMS must be built by the FIRST Tech Challenge team that has registered for the event and intends to use the ROBOT to participate in MATCHES or as part of judged awards. Section 3 Competition Eligibility and V2 16 of 144 Inspection (I) A MAJOR MECHANISM is a group of COMPONENTS and/or MECHANISMS assembled together to address at least 1 game challenge: ROBOT movement, SCORING ELEMENT manipulation, FIELD element manipulation, or performance of a scorable task without the assistance of another ROBOT. This rule requires that the ROBOT and its MAJOR MECHANISMS were built by its team but is not intended to prohibit or discourage assistance from other teams (e.g., fabricating elements, supporting construction, writing software, developing game strategy, contributing COMPONENTS and/or MECHANISMS). Examples that would generally not be considered MAJOR MECHANISMS, and thus are not subject to this rule include, but are not limited to, the following: A. a gearbox assembly, B. a COMPONENT or MECHANISM that is part of a MAJOR MECHANISM, or C. COTS items. I302 *Get inspected before playing a qualification/playoff MATCH. A team is only permitted to participate in a qualification or playoff MATCH and receive RANKING POINTS if their ROBOT has passed an initial, complete inspection. INSPECTORS are available to help, but teams are expected to ensure their ROBOT and other supporting equipment are within the rules at all times when competing. Violation: If prior to the start of the MATCH, the team is DISQUALIFIED and not eligible to participate in the MATCH. If after the start of the MATCH, the team receives a RED CARD for that MATCH. I303 *Bring the complete ROBOT and supporting equipment to inspection. At the time of inspection, the OPERATOR CONSOLE and the ROBOT with battery must be presented with all MECHANISMS (including all COMPONENTS of each MECHANISM), configurations, and decorations that will be used on the ROBOT in MATCHES without re-inspection per I304. A. ROBOTS are allowed to play MATCHES with a subset of the MECHANISMS that were present during inspection. Only MECHANISMS that were present during inspection may be added, removed, or reconfigured between MATCHES. The ROBOT should be assembled in a typical configuration used for MATCH play when reporting for inspection. ROBOT and all MECHANISMS must be inspected in every STARTING CONFIGURATION. B. If MECHANISMS are swapped out between MATCHES, the reconfigured ROBOT must still meet all rules. C. The total of all electronics (motors, servos, Android Devices, etc.) used to build all MECHANISMS and base ROBOT, whether they are used on the ROBOT at the same time or not, may not exceed the constraints specified in section 12 ROBOT Construction Rules (R). I304 *Unless the change is listed below, any change to a ROBOT must get re-inspected. A ROBOT may play MATCHES with a subset of the MECHANISMS that were present during inspection provided the reconfigured ROBOT still complies with all ROBOT construction rules. Only MECHANISMS that were present during the inspection may be added, removed, or reconfigured between MATCHES without re- inspection per this rule. If a ROBOT is modified after its most recently passed inspection, it must be re- inspected before the ROBOT is eligible to participate in a MATCH. Exceptions are listed below (unless they result in a significant change to the ROBOT’S size, legality, or safety). A. addition, relocation, or removal of fasteners (e.g., cable ties, tape, and rivets), B. addition, relocation, or removal of labeling or marking, C. addition, relocation, or replacement of the team SIGN, Section 3 Competition Eligibility and V2 17 of 144 Inspection (I) D. revision of ROBOT code, E. replacement of a COTS COMPONENT with an identical COTS COMPONENT, F. replacement of a MECHANISM with an identical MECHANISM (size, weight, material), and G. additions, removals, or reconfiguration of ROBOT with a subset of MECHANISMS already inspected per I303 Violation: ROBOT must be inspected before participating in a MATCH or the team will receive a RED CARD. I305 *Do not exploit re-inspection. Teams may not use the re-inspection process in I304 to circumvent any other rules. I306 *ROBOTS can be powered on for inspection only for specific verification steps. For the safety of all those involved, ROBOTS must be presented for inspection with the ROBOT powered off and springs or other non-electrical stored energy devices in their lowest potential energy states (e.g., springs relaxed). Power should only be enabled on the ROBOT during those portions of the inspection process where it is required to validate certain system functionality and compliance with specific rules (software check, etc.). INSPECTORS may allow the ROBOT to be powered beyond the parameters above if both criteria below are met: A. the ROBOT design requires power or a charged stored energy device in order to confirm that the ROBOT meets STARTING CONFIGURATION requirements and B. the team has included safety interlocks that mitigate unexpected release of such stored energy. Batteries can remain installed in the ROBOT for inspection, but all other stored energy from springs or other material deformation should be in the most relaxed low energy state possible. The team may be asked to demonstrate these interlocks during the inspection process. I307 *STUDENTS must be present during the inspection process. At least 1 STUDENT team member must accompany the ROBOT for any inspection efforts. Exceptions may be made for major conflicts, e.g., religious holidays, major testing, transportation issues, etc. Violation: Inspection will not continue until a STUDENT is present. Section 3 Competition Eligibility and V2 18 of 144 Inspection (I) 4 Advancement Teams are only eligible to advance from events within their own region. Teams may be invited to compete at tournaments outside of their region, however, they do so for the opportunity of additional gameplay and to compete with other teams from outside of their area and are not advancement eligible from these out-of- region events. Teams can check what region they are assigned to on the FTC Events page by looking up their team number. Teams in regions that do not have a local Program Delivery Partner, or who are geographically isolated within their home region can work with FIRST by emailing [email protected] to get reassigned to another more accessible region for advancement. Figure 4-1: Region assignment display on FTC Events page FIRST Tech Challenge tournament progression is shown in Figure 4-2. Teams can advance from any of their first three entry-level events: Qualifying Tournaments (QT) and League Tournaments (LT). Teams may only participate in one league per season. See section 14 League Play Tournaments (L) for more details on League Tournaments. Teams may participate in more than 3 entry-level events, but they are not eligible for advancement from those events. Figure 4-2: Tournament advancement structure Teams may advance from their Qualifying Tournaments or League Tournament to either a Super Qualifying Tournament (SQT) or directly to a Regional Championship (RCMP). Super Qualifying Tournaments (SQT) are an optional advancement level often used in large regions which need more levels of competition. A team may only participate in one Super Qualifying Tournament. The local Program Delivery Partner determines the advancement numbers from each tournament in their region, up to the Regional Championship. FIRST Headquarters staff determine the advancement from each Regional Championship to the FIRST Championship. Section 4 Advancement V1.1 19 of 144 If the team listed has already advanced or is ineligible for advancement, selection will continue down the list in Table 4-1 until all available advancement slots are filed. Table 4-1: Advancement Order Single Division Single Division Dual Division Events 4-10 Teams Events ≥11 Teams 0 Qualifying Tournament Host Team* 1 Inspire Award, 1st Place 2 Event 1st Place Alliance Captain 3 Event 1st Place Alliance Partner 4 Think Award, 1st Place Inspire Award, 2nd Place Inspire Award, 2nd Place Inspire Award, 3rd Place 5 Connect/Motivate Award Inspire Award, 3rd Place (if Awarded) 1st Place Alliance Captain, 6 2nd Place Alliance Captain 2nd Place Alliance Captain finalist division 7 Design/Control/Innovate Award Think Award, 1st Place Think Award, 1st Place 1st Place Alliance Partner, 8 2nd Place Alliance Partner 2nd Place Alliance Partner finalist division 9 Connect Award, 1st Place Connect Award, 1st Place 2nd Place Alliance Captain, 10 3rd Place Alliance Captain winning division 11 Innovate Award, 1st Place Innovate Award, 1st Place nd 2 Place Alliance Captain, finalist 12 3rd Place Alliance Partner division 13 Control Award, 1st Place Control Award, 1st Place 14 Motivate Award, 1st Place Motivate Award, 1st Place 15 Design Award, 1st Place Design Award, 1st Place Next Highest Ranked Team 2nd Place Alliance Partner, 16 not already advanced winning division Next Highest Ranked Team 2nd Place Alliance Partner, finalist 17 not already advanced division Next Highest Award Next Highest Award Next Highest Ranked Team 18** (2nd and 3rd places) (2nd and 3rd places) not already advanced Not Already Advanced Not Already Advanced Next Highest Ranked Team Next Highest Ranked Team 19** not already advanced, not already advanced winning division Next Highest Ranked Team 20** not already advanced, finalist division *At the discretion of the Program Delivery Partner, a Qualifying Tournament (QT) host team may be granted advancement. The team must still compete at one other tournament within the region. **If advancement selection goes beyond the 20th position, rows 18-20 will repeat as needed. Section 4 Advancement V1.1 20 of 144 5 Event Rules (E) This section includes general rules which apply from the beginning of the public schedule when teams arrive through the end of the event with departure from the venue. They are high-level rules intended to promote an orderly and safe experience for all participants. The Event Director may specify additional restrictions beyond those listed here based on local venue requirements. Safety is always paramount, and many rules are intended to establish norms at each event that will mitigate injury risk to all participants. The Event Director has the final decision authority for all safety-related issues within a venue. 5.1 General Rules The rules below apply throughout an event from the beginning of the public schedule when teams arrive through the end of the event with departure from the venue. Universal Violation Note: A violation of any Event Rules (E) will result in a verbal warning. Egregious or subsequent violations will be addressed by the Head REFEREE, the lead ROBOT INSPECTOR (LRI) and/or Event Director and may result in disqualification for the team from MATCHES and awards. Criminal behavior will not be tolerated and will result in removal of individual(s) involved and/or disqualification for the team from the event. Additional rule specific violations, if applicable, are listed with their corresponding rule. E101 *Personal safety comes first. All team members must observe the following safety practices throughout the event: A. wear safety glasses or safety rated glasses with side shields (ANSI-approved, UL Listed, CE EN166 rated, AS/NZS certified, or CSA rated) while in and around the playing FIELD and in the pit area. Clear or lightly tinted safety glasses are preferred. Shaded glasses are allowed for those who need them and do not require a specific accommodation request. The only instances where teams are not required to wear safety glasses are in their first 10 minutes of their event load in, and for the first 10 minutes pits are open each day of the event as long as they’re not working on the ROBOT or setting up their pit. B. wear closed toed/heeled shoes. C. control entanglement risks by tying back long hair and removing other dangling decorations including lanyards, spirit wear and rings as needed while working on or around a ROBOT or ROBOT related materials or tools. D. wear appropriate clothing. E. walk in the venue. F. comply with government and venue-specific health and safety requirements in place for that event (i.e., mask wearing). Teams are responsible for bringing their own personal protective equipment. For more information about safety at FIRST events, please reference the FIRST Safety Manual. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 21 of 144 E102 *Be a Gracious Professional. All participants must be gracious and professional at all times while attending a FIRST Tech Challenge event. Uncivil behavior toward any participants is not tolerated. Examples of inappropriate behavior include, but are not limited to: A. use of offensive language or other uncivil conduct towards someone, B. intentionally blocking the view of other participants or spectators for an extended period (Team members momentarily holding up team signs while directly supporting their team is not considered a violation of this rule.), and C. jamming or interfering with the remote sensing capabilities of a ROBOT or the FIELD while in open-access spectator seating areas. Examples of remote sensing capabilities include, but are not limited to, vision systems, acoustic range finders, sonars, and infrared proximity sensors. Use of imagery that, to a reasonably astute observer, mimics the AprilTags employed on the FIELD is a violation of this rule. Examples of particularly contemptible behavior that may result in ejection from the event include, but are not limited to, the following: A. assault, e.g., throwing something that hits another person (even if unintended), B. threat, e.g., saying something like “if you don’t reverse that call, I’ll make you regret it,” C. harassment, e.g., badgering someone with no new information after a decision has been made or a question has been answered, D. bullying, e.g., using body or verbal language to cause another person to feel inadequate or unsafe, E. insulting, e.g., telling someone they do not deserve to be on a team, F. swearing at another person (versus swearing under one’s breath or at oneself), and G. yelling at another person(s) in anger or frustration. E103 *Children with adults, please. Children under 12 must be accompanied in the pits by an adult at all times. E104 *Respect the venue. Teams may not damage the venue, including but not limited to bleachers, floors, walls, railings, in any way. This includes littering with team giveaways including candies, flyers and stickers. E105 *Teams must check in. An adult team member must check in at the Pit Administration station, or the designated check in location, no later than 45 minutes before qualification MATCHES are scheduled to start unless otherwise specified or approved by the Event Director. Violation: Failure to check in may result in a team not participating in the event. E106 *Event resources are for competing teams only. Only teams registered for an event may use that event’s competition FIELD, practice FIELD, and inspection unless pre-approved by the Event Director or the Program Delivery Partner. Host teams supplying practice FIELD elements and/or machine shop resources may use them, however teams registered for that event must be granted priority. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 22 of 144 E107 *Practice only when/where permitted. Teams may only practice with their ROBOT in their pit space, in the designated event practice areas, or while in a practice MATCH. Teams may not set up their own practice equipment outside their pit in other areas of the event venue. When practicing in their pit, safety must remain the top priority. If the Event Director determines a pit practice setup is unsafe or interferes with activity in adjacent pits or aisles, the team must discontinue the activity. E108 *Work in designated areas only. At the event venue, teams may only produce FABRICATED ITEMS as follows: A. in their pit area, B. in another team’s pit area with permission from that team, C. while queued for a MATCH or practice FIELD (given space constraints, extra scrutiny regarding safety is required), D. any area designated by event staff (e.g., playoff pit area), or E. as permitted at provided machine shops that are available to all teams. E109 *Some things do not belong at events. Do not bring or use the following: A. skateboards B. ‘hoverboards’ C. drones D. bottled gas tanks (e.g., helium) E. noisy devices or noisemakers, such as floor stompers, whistles and/or air horns F. walkie-talkies G. scooters, except for those used for accommodations E110 *Do not arrange for additional utilities. Do not arrange for power, internet access, or phone lines from venue service providers or attempt to use venue internet connections reserved for event purposes (e.g., FIRST event management software or web casting). E111 *Do not sell stuff. Teams may not conduct sales at an event. This includes, but is not limited to, raffle tickets, food, hats, shirts, candy, water, soft drinks, fruit, or any promotional products unless specifically allowed by the Event Director. E112 *Make FIRST loud, but with restrictions. Do not invite or bring live bands to play in the audience. Do not play loud music. E113 *Hang banners with care. Be respectful when hanging your banners. A. Do not cover or move other team or sponsor signs already in place. B. Share the available space fairly with other teams. C. Do not obstruct the view of spectators. D. Get permission from the Event Director before hanging banners outside of your pit. E. Hang signs and banners in a safe manner. F. Banners hung outside team pits must not be larger than 25 ft.2 (2.3 m2). We encourage teams to bring team flags and/or signs for display in their pits and/or the ARENA. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 23 of 144 Respect venue-specific rules regarding sign location and hanging methods. At the end of the event, safely remove all signs and anything used to hang the signs (tape, string, etc.). E114 *Limit flag and flagpole size if used in the ARENA. Flags and flagpoles may not be of unreasonable size and weight if they are going to be used around the FIELD. As a guideline, reasonable flags are less than 3 ft. by 5 ft. (~91 cm by 152 cm) in size and weigh less than 2 lbs. (~907g). Reasonable flagpoles may not be more than 8 ft. (~243 cm) long and must weigh less than 3 lbs. (~1360g). E115 *No firearms or other weapons. Firearms or other weapons are prohibited at all FIRST events for all FIRST programs, including without limitation, all official FIRST Events posted here. This rule includes prop or simulated weapons which appear to be real. This policy does not apply to law enforcement or venue security personnel. E116 *Inspection required for practice FIELD access. A team may only use a practice FIELD with a ROBOT that has passed an initial, complete inspection. This rule only applies to events not using scheduled inspection times. E117 *Do not record FIRST staff or volunteers at the event without their consent. Teams and their guests may not record interactions with FIRST event staff, or anyone at an event, without the person’s consent. FIRST event staff and volunteers are empowered to excuse themselves from an interaction in which they are being recorded after declining consent. Laws regarding recording of conversations vary state-to-state and country-to country, and, in some cases, recording without consent may be criminal. Introducing the idea of recording a conversation with an implied reason of proving someone’s error can escalate a discussion and is likely to increase its adversarial nature. 5.2 Machine Shops and Host Team Build Spaces Rarely, some events host a machine shop or open their team’s build space, during specific hours (see the event public agenda), to help teams with repair and fabrication of their ROBOT. Machine shops are typically sponsored by the local host organization. In most cases, the machine shop is on site and readily accessible to all teams. All competing teams should have access to the same resources. 5.3 Wireless Rules E301 *No wireless communication. Teams may not set up their own Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be) wireless communication (e.g., access points or ad-hoc networks), Bluetooth, or any other communications systems using 2.4GHz or 5GHz wireless in the venue. A wireless hot spot created by a cellular device, camera, smart TV, etc. is considered an access point. Some smart TVs have access points enabled by factory default. Please make sure that functionality is disabled for any TVs brought to the event. Bluetooth uses 2.4GHz frequencies to communicate which can interfere with venue and ROBOT systems. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 24 of 144 Many R/C toys (including drones, wireless vehicles, FPV systems) use 2.4GHz and 5GHz communications. Do not operate these in the venue. E302 *Don’t interfere with wireless networks. Participants may not interfere, attempt to interfere, or attempt to connect with any other team or FIRST wireless network without expressed permission. Teams are encouraged to report suspected wireless security vulnerabilities to the FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA) or Event Director if at the event or to FIRST via [email protected] to report a suspected issue after the event. Violation: Subsequent violations may lead to dismissal from the event and/or legal action based on applicable laws. 5.4 Load-In Some large events (often multi-day events) may set specific time frames, published on the event public schedule, in which teams are invited to load their ROBOT and equipment into their pit areas before pits officially open. Load-in can be stressful for teams and volunteers, which can be mitigated by preparation and planning. Unanticipated factors, like traffic or weather, can change a team’s scheduled arrival time, making the process difficult. The most important things a team should remember are to be safe, gracious, and professional. Teams who experience smooth and easy load-ins are encouraged to check with others to see if they can help and make their experience as positive as possible. 5.5 Pits A team pit is the designated space, typically a 10 ft. by 10 ft. by 10 ft. (~3 m x 3 m x 3 m) area, where a team may work on their ROBOT. Each team is assigned a pit space marked with their team number. This helps team members, judges, and visitors find teams easily. Pit spaces may vary based on competition venue size limits. The pit area refers to the general area where team pits are located which encompasses the aisles between the pits, pit admin, ROBOT inspection, practice FIELD, or other areas where ROBOTS may be active or worked on. All pit rules apply to the full pit area. Additional limitations beyond those listed below may be imposed by the Event Director but they should be clearly communicated at least 48 hours before the event start time and applied to all teams fairly. Team pits may or may not have a table and power outlet. If individual team outlets are not provided, the venue must provide access to team-usable outlets in the pit area for charging batteries. Power may not be available overnight for a multi-day event. Teams, volunteers, FIRST staff, and guests spend a lot of time in the pits. Get to know other teams and help each other when you can. Time is short and help is very often right "next door" in the adjacent team pits. Small, bench-top machinery, with appropriate guards, is permitted in team pits. ‘Small’ machinery is machinery that can be easily lifted by one person and examples include, but are not limited to: 3D printers, small band saws, small drill presses, desktop CNC mills, and sanders. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 25 of 144 E501 *Pits are unavailable if closed. Teams may not access their pit area outside the designated pit hours. E502 *Stay in your pit. Teams may neither allow their materials to expand beyond their team pit (including running power or internet lines from their team pit to any other area), swap team pits with other teams, nor move themselves to empty team pits without Event Director approval. E503 *Keep aisles clear. Aisles must be kept clear. E504 *No sparks. Tools that throw sparks or produce open flames are prohibited. Examples of tools that violate this rule include, but are not limited to welders, bench and angle grinders, and gas torches. Violation: Any items that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or the Event Director must be removed. E505 *Nothing too big. Floor standing power tools are prohibited. Examples include but are not limited to full-size drill presses, and band saws. Violation: Teams will be asked to remove or not bring in floor standing power tools. Any items that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or Event Director must be removed. E506 *No brazing or welding. Brazing/welding is prohibited. Violation: Teams will be asked to remove or not bring in brazing/welding tools. Any items that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel, and/or Event Director must be removed. E507 *Solder with specific tools only. Soldering may be done using an electric iron/gun only. Violation: Any items that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or the Event Director must be removed. E508 *Structures must be safe. Teams may not build any structure that supports the weight of people or stores items overhead. Structures may not block or inhibit fire sprinkler systems or otherwise be unsafe. Violation: Any pit structures that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or the Event Director must be removed. E509 *Secure team identification assets. Team signs, flags, and displays must be securely mounted to the pit structure. Violation: Any pit structures that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or the Event Director must be removed. E510 *Only use aerosol or other chemicals with noxious fumes in approved areas. Any aerosol or chemical that produces noxious fumes or spray particulates should only be used in approved areas. Not all venues will allow the use of these products anywhere on site. Violation: Any items that are deemed unsafe or outside specifications by FIRST personnel and/or the Event Director must be removed. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 26 of 144 5.6 ROBOT Carts Most teams use carts to transport their ROBOT throughout an event. Carts are not required but are strongly recommended (to minimize risk of muscle strains, dropped ROBOTS, and other hazards). In addition to the rules listed below, teams are strongly encouraged to put the team’s number on the cart, refer to the FIRST Safety Manual for ROBOT lifting techniques, and practice putting the ROBOT on and off the cart to develop a safe, quick, fluid routine. E601 *Carts must be safe and easy to use. Carts must be easy to control, maneuver, and pose no risk to bystanders. E602 *Carts should not be too big. Carts must fit through a standard 30-inch door. E603 *Carts cannot park anywhere. Carts must remain in the team pit (or other venue designated cart staging areas) when not in use. E604 *No noisy carts. Carts may not be equipped with music or other sound-generating devices. E605 *No motor driven carts. ROBOT carts may not use powered propulsion. 5.7 Ceremonies At most events, there are opening and closing ceremonies to show honor and respect for represented countries, sponsors, teams, mentors, volunteers, and award winners. Ceremonies provide everyone with the opportunity to collectively applaud the successes of all participants. They also give teams a chance to "meet" the volunteers and other people and sponsors involved with the event. Closing ceremony elements are at the end of most events and are integrated into and presented between playoff MATCHES. At the awards ceremony, FIRST presents trophies and medallions to outstanding teams. All team members are encouraged to attend the ceremonies, be punctual, and show appreciation to volunteers that staffed the event. E701 *Quiet in the pits during ceremonies. During ceremonies outside of playoff MATCHES, team members may not: A. use power tools B. use loud hand tools (hammers, saws, etc.) C. shout, yell, or use loud voices, unless as a demonstration of approval during a ceremonial activity. E702 *Pit person limit during ceremonies is 5. No more than 5 team members may be in the pits during ceremonies outside of playoff MATCHES. Each team must have at least 1 representative observing ceremonies to be responsible to relay important information to the entire team. All teams are encouraged to have as many people in the stands for ceremonies as possible. This is important both to celebrate all who are recognized during ceremonies, but also to listen for important day-of information from event organizers which might be critical for your team. E703 *Be respectful during anthems. Team members, including any remaining in the pits, should exhibit peaceful behavior during the presentation of all national anthems. Traditionally, team members stand to face the flag, remove hats, and either sing along or maintain a respectful silence during the anthems of all nations present at the event. If team members wish to abstain, they have a right to do so, as long as they remain silent and non-disruptive. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 27 of 144 5.8 In the Stands E801 *No saving seats. Teams are not permitted to save or designate seats for team members that are not actively using them. Teams may not hang banners or ribbons or otherwise designate seating. (Event staff will remove and discard any banners, roping, etc., used to designate seating.) Please take turns sitting in the bleachers/stands if seating is limited. If there is a crowding problem, we ask that you kindly leave after your team's MATCH and return later, if possible. The Event Director may reserve seats for attendees who require accessible seating, for certain volunteers, or to ensure teams in the playoffs have seats to watch their teams play. E802 *No throwing items from the stands. Items may not be thrown from audience seating. Section 5 Event Rules (E) V1.1 28 of 144 6 Awards (A) FIRST Tech Challenge celebrates the excitement of competition both on and off the field. Through the following awards, we celebrate the FIRST Core Values which makes us so much #morethanrobots. Please note that different event types (e.g., League Tournaments, Regional Championship, FIRST Championship) or event sizes may offer different sets of awards. Not every award is presented at every FIRST Tech Challenge event. No awards are presented at League Meets, see section 14 League Play Tournaments (L), additional details by event type are available in the sections below. Judged awards are determined by volunteers from the community who prepare for the event with thorough training and certification. There are 2 key judging volunteer roles: JUDGES – meet with teams to learn about and celebrate the unique journey and accomplishments of each team and evaluate these against award requirements. JUDGES interact with STUDENTS during the interview process, and in the pits. As a group, JUDGES determine the teams that receive awards at events. JUDGE advisor (JA) – trains, directs, and supervises JUDGES throughout the event. JUDGE advisors oversee the judging processes and procedures to make sure they are in accordance with FIRST Tech Challenge judging guidelines. FIRST Tech Challenge judging is delivered in one of two ways. Most events will have in-person (“traditional”) judging along with the standard in-person gameplay. The second is hybrid format which has in-person gameplay, but judging is done remotely before in-person gameplay. This manual will primarily describe the traditional in person judging process. The remote judging process follows the same overall judging standards and requirements, but interviews are conducted online, and no face-to-face meetings are required. Teams may also read the Judge and Judge Advisor Manuals to gain more insight into the complete judging process. 6.1 Team Judged Awards Overview and Schedule Most FIRST Tech Challenge awards fall into two broad categories: Machine, Creativity, and Innovation (MCI), and Team Attributes (TA), with two additional special awards: Inspire and Think (Figure 6-1). Figure 6-1: Award hierarchy Section 6 Awards (A) V3 29 of 144 − MCI awards recognize the technical accomplishments of teams in the planning, design, construction, operation, and control of their ROBOTS. − TA awards recognize teams who have developed strong partnerships with their community. This includes recruiting members, fund-raising, and the teams’ outreach efforts to spread FIRST’s message about the benefits that can come from the study of math, science, and technology. − The Think Award recognizes teams who masterfully document their team’s process and product using their PORTFOLIO. − The Inspire Award recognizes teams who excel in MCI, TA, and Think award accomplishments. This team is an all-around inspiration for others The JUDGES will gather information from the teams through several different pathways (Figure 6-2). All teams will have the opportunity to submit a written PORTFOLIO which should document aspects of their teams which directly support the judged award criteria or information which they wish the JUDGES to consider. All teams are encouraged to prepare for a judging interview session where the team can present a prepared oral presentation to a small panel of JUDGES about their team followed by a Q&A session. After all the judging panels have finished, the JUDGES compare notes and may elect to follow up with the teams in the pit area during the competition and conduct more informal pit interviews. JUDGES may also accept feedback about teams at the event from other event volunteers to help inform their understanding of the team. Figure 6-2: Sources of information for Judged Awards Judging Pit Interview Interview(s) Event PORTFOLIO Volunteer Judged Feedback Awards In addition to the specific information sources JUDGES use to evaluate teams, there are also sources of information which are specifically disallowed. JUDGES are strictly instructed to only consider information from the current event and cannot consider information from outside what they have seen or heard at the current event. This means that information like past performance (good or bad), personal knowledge of a team, and external sources like websites and social media are not considered. JUDGES also do not consider overall ROBOT performance in an award unless it is specifically listed as part of the required or encouraged evaluation criteria. The awards are a method FIRST uses to inspire STUDENTS and open their eyes to building a better future together. The awards process should foster a positive STUDENT interaction with JUDGES who are successful professionals and can recognize their achievements and encourage them to continue learning. All award winners chosen by the JUDGES are recognized as being positive examples of the award guidelines, not necessarily the “best” team. Teams may participate in judging regardless of the inspection status of their ROBOT and are eligible for awards even if they are attending the event without a ROBOT. Section 6 Awards (A) V3 30 of 144 A101 *Team PORTFOLIOS have limits. Teams have the opportunity to submit a team PORTFOLIO to be used as part of the judging process. No other printed or digital content not directly included in this document will be collected by the JUDGES to consider during deliberations. PORTFOLIOS must meet the following requirements: A. must consist of 1 cover page including the team number and optionally: team name, PORTFOLIO table of contents, team organizations, sponsors, logo, motto, and picture of the ROBOT and/or team. B. no more than 15 pages of judged content (if printing front and back, 8 sheets of paper, including the cover page) C. use only US Letter (8.5” x 11”) or A4 (210 x 297 mm) size paper. D. font minimum of 10 point or larger E. if submitted digitally, the complete submission must be less than 15MB in size. F. must only include progress, challenges, and accomplishments which take place during the current season and, for returning teams, after the conclusion of their last official event that they participated in. None of the content of the cover page will be used by JUDGES to evaluate any awards criteria. Any content beyond the allowed 15 pages will not be reviewed by the JUDGES. The JUDGES use the cover page to identify the team associated with the PORTFOLIO. Teams who forget to include a cover page may be disqualified from judging if the JUDGES cannot determine what team the PORTFOLIO is associated with. Font minimums are used to help ensure minimum readability. Teams should carefully consider font size, color, and graphic design when making their PORTFOLIO so that all JUDGES are able to read their submission. Teams whose design choices include small fonts or low contrast text on images will not be excluded from consideration but understand that JUDGES will not be able to use anything they cannot read. JUDGES will not open, view, or use any included links to other documents, websites, or videos referenced to linked to from the PORTFOLIO. Teams may use writing and research aids including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help them compose their PORTFOLIOS. If AI or other resources are used, they must be credited via footnote or endnote. The PORTFOLIO captures a team’s progression through the current FIRST Tech Challenge season. A team may include anything in their PORTFOLIO which took place after their final official event of the previous season. Off-season events are not a part of the official FIRST Tech Challenge event calendar may be included as part of the team’s current season. A team may reference previous seasons (for example, in a team or organizational plan) to demonstrate growth, but the emphasis must be on the current season. Section 6 Awards (A) V3 31 of 144 A102 *PORTFOLIOS must be submitted on time as requested. To be considered as part of the judging process a team must submit their PORTFOLIO as instructed by the Event Director and by the stated deadline. If no other instructions are provided, teams should submit 1 printed copy of their PORTFOLIO during the judging interview. Instructions about when and how teams should submit their PORTFOLIOS should be communicated by the Event Director before the event. If circumstances prevent a team from following the PORTFOLIO submission instructions, the Event Director should work with the JUDGE advisor to make reasonable accommodations to accept all team PORTFOLIOS unless doing so poses an undue burden to the judging process. A103 *Teams must attend a judging interview session. To be considered for any judged awards the team must attend their assigned judging interview session. Teams should be informed of their assigned time by the Event Director or local Program Delivery Partner in advance of the event. If there is a schedule conflict or the team misses their interview slot due to unforeseen circumstances the team should work with the Event Director or local Program Delivery Partner to make alternate accommodations for a judging interview at the event if possible. A104 *Bring the right resources with you to your judging interview. Teams attending their judging interview time slot should come prepared with the following: A. no less than 2 STUDENT representatives for teams of 2 STUDENTS and larger, B. a copy of their team PORTFOLIO (optional, submit as instructed by the Event Director) C. “show and tell” demonstration items which may include the team’s ROBOT (encouraged, but optional) D. 1 silent observer per A108 (optional) E. 1 support person to fill accommodations needs per A109 (optional, as needed) Teams are encouraged to have as many STUDENTS as possible involved in the judging interview process. A team does not have to have a ROBOT to participate in judging or be eligible for judged awards. If the team brings a ROBOT to present to the JUDGES it does not have to be inspected but should be built to be compliant with the current season’s FIRST Tech Challenge ROBOT construction rules and designed to play this season’s game. A105 *Everyone gets equal judging interview time. All teams will be scheduled for the same length judging interview of at least 10 minutes with a minimum of 10 minutes reserved between judging interviews for JUDGES to confer. A106 *The judging interview timer starts when the team starts. The timer starts after the team has entered the room and when they begin their presentation. Teams who take an extended amount of time to begin will be warned by the JUDGES to begin promptly and then the judging interview timer will be started regardless of the readiness of the presenting team. Teams should enter the room and prepare to begin speaking in an expedited manner. This rule is aimed at letting large teams get lined up and oriented in the Section 6 Awards (A) V3 32 of 144 room and for the JUDGES to introduce themselves and provide reminders of the interview format. Do not attempt to abuse the delayed start timer to set up equipment or otherwise gain an advantage. A107 *Prepared formal presentation time should not be interrupted. The first 5 minutes of the judging interview are reserved for the team to present a prepared oral presentation uninterrupted, if they choose. The uninterrupted presentation time may be ended early by the team. Any remaining time should be a back-and-forth question and answer-type conversation with the STUDENTS and led by the JUDGES. A108 *One adult silent observer is welcome. One adult mentor may attend the judging session and be present for any interaction between the JUDGES and the STUDENT team members. Adult mentor(s) may be present for any interactions between the JUDGES and the STUDENT team members outside of the formal scheduled interview. The adult observer and mentor(s) may not interact or coach actively during any interaction between the JUDGES and the STUDENT team members. The purpose of the adult silent observer is to provide silent confidence to the STUDENT team members presenting in an unknown environment with new people. The adult observer can also provide coaching and feedback to their team following the conclusion of the judging interview and outside of the designated judging space. A109 *Translator accommodations will be made for teams who need it. Teams who need to use a translator to communicate with the JUDGE panel may provide one if the team’s native language does not match that of the event host site provided JUDGES. This includes sign language or other adaptive technology. Teams who intend to interview with the assistance of a translator should work with the Event Director in advance to request additional interview time of between 2 and 5 minutes. The translator may be an adult and can be in addition to the silent observer in A108. A110 *No Video or Audio recording during judging interview. In addition to the restrictions of E117, teams may not record any video or audio during their judging interview. Section 6 Awards (A) V3 33 of 144 A111 *The number of awards given scales with event size. Total number of awards given is based on the number of teams checked in at the event. Not all awards are given at every competition. Check the Judge and Judge Advisor Manuals for exact details. Table 6-1: Total judged awards available based on all event participating teams Total Awards Participating Teams Award 4-10 Teams 11-20 Teams 21-40 Teams 41-64 Teams st st 1 Place 1st Place 1 Place Inspire Award 1st Place 2nd Place 2nd Place 2nd Place rd 3 Place 3rd Place st 1st Place 1 Place Think Award 1st Place 1st Place 2nd Place 2nd Place (3rd Place*) st 1st Place 1 Place TA Awards Connect Award 1st Place 2nd Place 1st Place (2nd Place*) (3rd Place*) (1 TA award 1st Place will be given) 1 st Place Motivate Award 1st Place 2nd Place (2nd Place*) (3rd Place*) st 1st Place 1 Place Design Award 1st Place 2nd Place (2nd Place*) (3rd Place*) MCI Awards

2024-2025 FIRST® Tech Challenge Competition Manual PDF

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