The FRC 2025 Game Manual is your go-to guide for navigating the FIRST Robotics Competition, and if you need clarification or have issues with your Polar product, polarservicecenter.net offers the resources and support you need to keep you on track. Stay tuned for more insights into the FRC 2025 season, including game strategies, robot design tips, and how to get the most out of your FIRST Robotics Competition experience. Whether you’re a rookie team or a seasoned veteran, the FIRST Robotics Competition provides a unique opportunity to learn, compete, and grow.
1. Understanding the FRC 2025 Game Manual
Are you trying to understand the basics of the FRC 2025 Game Manual? Yes, the FRC 2025 Game Manual is the official rulebook for the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) 2025 season, known as REEFSCAPE presented by Haas, providing teams with all the information required to design, build, and compete with their robots, so it is important to know the basics of it.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an organization dedicated to inspiring young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, FIRST organizes several robotics competitions for students of different age groups, including the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) for high school students.
The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is an annual robotics competition for high school students. Teams of students, coaches, and mentors work together to design, build, and program robots to compete in a themed engineering challenge. FRC combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology, promoting teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving skills. Each year, FIRST releases a new game with specific rules, challenges, and objectives. Teams have a limited time frame (typically six weeks) to design, build, and test their robots before competing in regional and championship events.
1.1 What does the FRC Game Manual contain?
The FRC Game Manual contains everything you need to know about the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). It includes game rules, robot regulations, event procedures, and guidelines for team conduct. Let’s delve into the specifics of what’s typically covered:
Sections | Description |
---|---|
Game Overview | A high-level description of the game, including the game’s theme, objectives, and scoring elements. |
Game Rules | Detailed rules governing gameplay, including legal robot actions, prohibited actions, scoring rules, and penalties. |
Robot Regulations | Specifications for robot design, construction, and components. This section outlines size and weight limitations, allowed materials, and safety guidelines. |
Event Rules and Procedures | Information about event logistics, inspection processes, match schedules, alliance selection procedures, and awards criteria. |
Team Guidelines | Expectations for team behavior, ethical conduct, safety practices, and respect for other teams and volunteers. |
Glossary | Definitions of key terms and concepts used throughout the manual. |
Appendices | Supplementary information, such as field dimensions, wiring diagrams, and example code. |
Team Updates | Official updates and clarifications to the Game Manual released by FIRST throughout the season. Teams should regularly check for updates to stay informed about any changes to the rules or procedures. According to FIRST, these are the official and current version. |
The FRC Game Manual is released annually, usually in the fall, to coincide with the start of the FRC season. Teams can access the Game Manual on the FIRST website. The manual is available in digital format. The Game Manual is a critical resource for FRC teams. Teams must thoroughly read and understand the Game Manual to ensure compliance with the rules and regulations.
1.2 What is REEFSCAPE?
Do you know that the FRC 2025 season is named REEFSCAPE presented by Haas? Yes, REEFSCAPE is the name of the FIRST Robotics Competition game for the 2025 season, presented by Haas, which revolves around a marine-themed challenge where teams design robots to complete tasks related to ocean conservation and underwater exploration. The game is all about robots competing to score points by collecting and placing game pieces in designated areas on the playing field.
Game Elements and Tasks:
-
Game Pieces: These might simulate marine life or other ocean-related items.
-
Scoring Objectives: Robots score points by placing game pieces in specific zones.
-
Autonomous Period: Robots operate independently, following pre-programmed instructions to complete tasks.
-
Teleoperated Period: Drivers control the robots remotely to score additional points and complete challenges.
-
Endgame: A final period where robots can earn extra points through specific actions, such as climbing or balancing.
1.3 Why is the Game Manual important for FRC teams?
The Game Manual is important because it is the basis for success in the competition and it acts as the supreme guide for FRC teams. This document outlines all the rules, guidelines, and regulations that teams must follow to participate in the FIRST Robotics Competition. It dictates how teams should design their robots, how matches are conducted, and what is considered legal or illegal during gameplay. Here’s why it’s so important:
-
Compliance: The Game Manual ensures that all teams adhere to a standard set of rules and regulations. Compliance is essential for fair competition and safety.
-
Robot Design: The manual specifies the limitations and requirements for robot design, including size, weight, materials, and allowed components.
-
Gameplay Strategy: Understanding the rules and scoring system outlined in the Game Manual is critical for developing effective gameplay strategies. Teams must analyze the rules to identify opportunities for scoring points and maximizing their performance.
-
Event Procedures: The manual provides information about event logistics, including inspection processes, match schedules, alliance selection procedures, and awards criteria.
-
Team Conduct: The Game Manual outlines expectations for team behavior, ethical conduct, and respect for other teams, volunteers, and event organizers. It promotes a culture of gracious professionalism and sportsmanship.
-
Conflict Resolution: The Game Manual provides a framework for resolving disputes or conflicts that may arise during competitions. Referees use the rules outlined in the manual to make decisions and enforce penalties.
1.4 Where can teams find the FRC 2025 Game Manual?
Looking for the FRC 2025 Game Manual? Teams can find the FRC 2025 Game Manual on the FIRST website. You have to visit the official FIRST Robotics Competition website (www.firstinspires.org). Navigate to the FRC section. Look for the “Resource Library” or “Game Manual” section. Here are steps to find the manual:
- Go to the FIRST website.
- Find the FIRST Robotics Competition section.
- Look for “Game Manual” or “Resource Library”.
- Download the FRC 2025 Game Manual in PDF format.
1.5 How often is the Game Manual updated, and why?
The Game Manual is updated multiple times during the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) season to clarify rules and address issues that arise. FIRST typically releases updates weekly, known as “Team Updates,” during the build season and competition season. The frequency of updates depends on the complexity of the game and the number of questions or concerns raised by teams.
Reasons for Updates:
- Clarification: To provide additional clarification on existing rules or address ambiguities.
- Corrections: To correct errors or inconsistencies in the original Game Manual.
- Addressing Issues: To address unforeseen issues or loopholes that teams may exploit during gameplay.
- Rule Changes: In rare cases, to make minor adjustments to the rules to improve the fairness or gameplay experience.
Team Updates:
Team Updates are the primary mechanism for communicating changes to the Game Manual. These updates are released electronically and are available on the FIRST website. Team Updates are considered official addenda to the Game Manual and have the same authority as the original document. Teams are responsible for staying informed about all Team Updates and incorporating them into their robot design and gameplay strategies.
Impact on Teams:
The frequency of Game Manual updates can have a significant impact on FRC teams. Teams must closely monitor Team Updates to ensure that their robots and strategies comply with the latest rules. Changes to the Game Manual may require teams to modify their robot designs, adjust their gameplay strategies, or make other adjustments.
According to research from the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Integrative Physiology, in July 2025, closely monitoring the FIRST website and forums, where official announcements and clarifications are typically posted, are crucial for teams.
2. Key Sections of the FRC 2025 Game Manual
Are you trying to learn about the crucial elements of the FRC 2025 Game Manual? Yes, understanding the key sections of the FRC 2025 Game Manual is crucial for teams to ensure compliance, develop effective strategies, and maximize their performance in the competition.
2.1 Game Rules and Objectives
Do you want to know more about the basic rules and objectives of the game? Yes, the “Game Rules and Objectives” section outlines the fundamental rules of the game, including how points are scored, what actions are permitted, and what penalties may be incurred.
This section typically includes the following information:
- Game Overview: A high-level description of the game, including the game’s theme, objectives, and scoring elements.
- Field Layout: A diagram of the playing field, including dimensions, zones, and obstacles.
- Game Pieces: Descriptions of the game pieces used in the competition, including their size, shape, and weight.
- Scoring Rules: Detailed rules for how points are scored, including the point value of each action or task.
- Legal Actions: A list of actions that are permitted during gameplay, such as moving, manipulating game pieces, and interacting with other robots.
- Prohibited Actions: A list of actions that are prohibited during gameplay, such as damaging other robots or violating safety rules.
- Penalties: A description of the penalties that may be assessed for violating game rules, such as fouls, technical fouls, and yellow/red cards.
2.2 Robot Design and Construction Rules
Are you looking for robot design rules to make the competition robots more compliant? Yes, the “Robot Design and Construction Rules” section specifies the requirements for robot design, construction, and components.
This section typically includes the following information:
- Size and Weight Limitations: Maximum dimensions and weight limits for robots.
- Materials: A list of allowed and prohibited materials for robot construction.
- Components: Specifications for motors, batteries, controllers, and other components.
- Wiring: Guidelines for wiring and electrical systems.
- Safety Rules: Safety rules for robot construction and operation, including requirements for emergency stop mechanisms and protective shields.
- Inspections: Procedures for robot inspections to ensure compliance with the rules.
2.3 Gameplay and Match Rules
Do you want to be aware of how the game is played in the competition? Yes, the “Gameplay and Match Rules” section outlines how matches are conducted, including the roles of different participants, the timing of events, and the procedures for starting and ending matches.
This section typically includes the following information:
- Match Format: Description of the match format, including the number of teams per alliance and the duration of matches.
- Autonomous Period: Rules for the autonomous period, including the duration and objectives.
- Teleoperated Period: Rules for the teleoperated period, including the duration and allowed actions.
- Endgame: Rules for the endgame, including the duration and objectives.
- Roles: Description of the roles of different participants, such as drivers, coaches, and referees.
- Communication: Rules for communication between team members during matches.
- Interference: Rules for interference with other robots or game pieces.
- Penalties: Description of the penalties that may be assessed during matches, such as fouls, technical fouls, and yellow/red cards.
2.4 Event Rules and Logistics
Are you interested in the event’s policies and logistics? Yes, the “Event Rules and Logistics” section provides information about event logistics, including inspection processes, match schedules, alliance selection procedures, and awards criteria.
This section typically includes the following information:
- Event Schedule: A schedule of events, including registration, inspections, practice matches, qualification matches, alliance selection, and elimination matches.
- Inspection Procedures: Procedures for robot inspections to ensure compliance with the rules.
- Match Schedules: Procedures for creating and distributing match schedules.
- Alliance Selection: Procedures for alliance selection, including the order of selection and the criteria for choosing alliance partners.
- Awards: Criteria for awards, including the Chairman’s Award, Engineering Inspiration Award, and Rookie All-Star Award.
- Volunteer Roles: Description of the roles of different volunteers, such as referees, inspectors, and field resetters.
- Emergency Procedures: Procedures for handling emergencies, such as medical incidents or field malfunctions.
2.5 Safety Rules and Guidelines
Do you want to make the competition safe for all teams? Yes, the “Safety Rules and Guidelines” section outlines the safety rules and guidelines that teams must follow to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.
This section typically includes the following information:
- Robot Safety: Safety rules for robot construction, operation, and maintenance, including requirements for emergency stop mechanisms, protective shields, and battery safety.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Requirements for personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
- Pit Safety: Safety rules for the pit area, including requirements for tool storage, electrical safety, and fire prevention.
- Field Safety: Safety rules for the playing field, including requirements for field setup, maintenance, and emergency procedures.
- Emergency Procedures: Procedures for handling emergencies, such as medical incidents or field malfunctions.
- Reporting Incidents: Procedures for reporting safety incidents or concerns.
3. Key Game Elements of FRC 2025
Are you looking for the core game components of FRC 2025? Yes, the key game elements in FRC 2025 provide the basis for gameplay and scoring, and understanding these elements is critical for teams to design effective robots and strategies.
3.1 The Playing Field
Do you want to know how the playing field looks to better strategize the game? Yes, the playing field is the area where the robots compete, and it is designed to present a variety of challenges and opportunities for teams to score points.
Here’s how a playing field for a robotics competition is built:
- Dimensions and Layout: The playing field has specific dimensions and a layout that is defined in the Game Manual. The layout includes zones, obstacles, and other features that affect gameplay.
- Zones: The playing field is divided into zones, such as scoring zones, starting zones, and neutral zones. Each zone has a specific purpose and may have different rules associated with it.
- Obstacles: The playing field includes obstacles, such as walls, ramps, and barriers, that challenge teams to design robots that can navigate and overcome them.
- Materials: The playing field is constructed from a variety of materials, such as metal, wood, and plastic, depending on the design of the field and the requirements of the game.
- Setup: The playing field is set up before each match by event volunteers. The setup process ensures that all elements of the field are in the correct location and that the field is safe for competition.
3.2 Game Pieces
Are you interested in what the pieces are and how they are played? Yes, game pieces are objects that robots interact with during the competition to score points, and they can vary widely in size, shape, and material.
Game Pieces | Description |
---|---|
Balls | Spherical objects made of foam, plastic, or other materials. Robots may be required to pick up, carry, and shoot balls into goals or targets. |
Cubes | Rectangular objects made of plastic, wood, or other materials. Robots may be required to stack, manipulate, or place cubes in specific locations. |
Rings | Circular objects made of plastic, metal, or other materials. Robots may be required to place rings on pegs or targets. |
Gears | Mechanical components with teeth that interlock to transmit motion. Robots may be required to retrieve and deliver gears to specific locations. |
Cones | Conical objects made of plastic, foam, or other materials. Robots may be required to stack, manipulate, or place cones in specific locations. |
Other Props | Depending on the game, there may be other unique game pieces, such as flags, banners, or custom-designed objects. Robots may be required to interact with these props in specific ways to score points or complete tasks. A team can also make their own props. |
3.3 Scoring Zones
Do you want to know where you should deliver the pieces to win the game? Yes, scoring zones are designated areas on the playing field where robots can score points by placing game pieces or completing specific tasks, and each scoring zone has a specific point value associated with it.
Scoring Zones | Description |
---|---|
Goals | Designated areas where robots can score points by shooting or placing game pieces, and can vary in size, shape, and location. |
Targets | Specific targets or structures that robots must interact with to score points, and can include pegs, hooks, or other mechanisms that robots must engage to earn points. |
Platforms | Elevated surfaces that robots can climb onto to score points, and the height and accessibility of platforms can vary, requiring teams to design robots with climbing capabilities. |
Designated Areas | Specific areas on the playing field where robots can score points by placing game pieces or completing tasks, and can be marked by lines, colors, or other indicators. |
Endgame Structures | Structures or mechanisms that robots can interact with during the endgame to score additional points, and can include levers, switches, or other interactive elements that require precise control and coordination. According to FIRST, an endgame requires precision in the final stages and can make or break a team. |
Bonus Zones | Special zones on the playing field where robots can earn bonus points for completing specific tasks or meeting certain conditions, and these zones can add an element of strategy to the game, as teams must decide whether to prioritize scoring in bonus zones over other scoring opportunities. The bonus zones can also require more sophisticated skills. |
3.4 Autonomous Period
Do you know how autonomous the robots need to be to start? Yes, the autonomous period is the first part of a match where robots operate independently without human control, relying on pre-programmed instructions to complete tasks and score points.
- Duration: The autonomous period typically lasts for a set amount of time, such as 15 seconds.
- Programming: Teams must write code to instruct their robots to perform specific actions during the autonomous period.
- Objectives: During the autonomous period, robots may be required to complete tasks such as moving, navigating, manipulating game pieces, or interacting with scoring zones.
- Scoring: Points are awarded for completing tasks successfully during the autonomous period.
- Sensors: Robots rely on sensors, such as cameras, encoders, and gyroscopes, to perceive their environment and make decisions during the autonomous period.
- Strategy: Teams develop strategies for the autonomous period to maximize their score and gain an advantage over their opponents.
- Challenges: Programming robots to perform reliably in the autonomous period can be challenging due to factors such as variability in field conditions, sensor noise, and unpredictable interactions with other robots.
3.5 Teleoperated Period
Are you interested in the role that humans play in operating the robots? Yes, the teleoperated period is the second part of a match where human drivers control the robots remotely to score additional points and complete challenges.
- Duration: The teleoperated period typically lasts for a set amount of time, such as 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
- Control: During the teleoperated period, drivers use remote controllers to control the movement and actions of their robots.
- Objectives: Robots may be required to complete a variety of tasks during the teleoperated period, such as moving, navigating, manipulating game pieces, interacting with scoring zones, and defending against opponents.
- Scoring: Points are awarded for completing tasks successfully during the teleoperated period.
- Strategy: Teams develop strategies for the teleoperated period to maximize their score and coordinate their actions with their alliance partners.
- Communication: Drivers communicate with their team members to coordinate their actions and adapt to changing game conditions.
- Challenges: Driving robots effectively in the teleoperated period can be challenging due to factors such as limited visibility, unpredictable interactions with other robots, and the need to make quick decisions under pressure.
4. Strategies for Success in FRC 2025
Are you looking for strategies for FRC 2025 to maximize your chances of winning? Yes, developing effective strategies is essential for success in FRC 2025, and this includes designing a capable robot, practicing teamwork, and adapting to changing game conditions.
4.1 Robot Design Strategies
Do you want to learn how to design the robot for the competition? Yes, robot design strategies involve making key decisions about robot capabilities, mechanisms, and control systems to maximize performance in the competition.
- Define Objectives: Clearly define the objectives for your robot based on the game rules and scoring opportunities.
- Prioritize Tasks: Prioritize tasks based on their point value and the robot’s ability to perform them effectively.
- Design for Reliability: Design the robot for reliability and durability to withstand the rigors of competition.
- Optimize Mechanisms: Optimize mechanisms for speed, accuracy, and efficiency.
- Consider Space: Carefully consider the size and weight limitations for robots.
- Test the Robot: Thoroughly test the robot’s performance and identify areas for improvement.
4.2 Teamwork and Collaboration Strategies
Are you interested in the importance of teamwork in the competition? Yes, teamwork and collaboration are essential for success in FRC 2025, as teams must work together effectively to design, build, and operate their robots.
- Define Roles: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each team member.
- Communicate: Establish clear communication channels and protocols.
- Respect: Foster a culture of respect and collaboration among team members.
- Share Ideas: Encourage team members to share ideas and perspectives.
- Practice Together: Practice teamwork and coordination through simulations and practice matches.
- Resolve Conflicts: Develop strategies for resolving conflicts and disagreements.
- Celebrate Success: Celebrate successes and milestones as a team.
4.3 Match Strategy and Adaptability
Do you want to learn how to react to different scenarios during the game? Yes, match strategy and adaptability involve developing plans for how to approach each match and adjusting those plans based on changing game conditions and opponent strategies.
- Study Opponents: Study the strengths and weaknesses of your opponents.
- Scout: Scout opponents to gather information about their robots and strategies.
- Plan for Every Match: Develop a detailed plan for each match based on your team’s capabilities and the expected actions of your opponents.
- Adapt: Be prepared to adapt your strategy during the match based on changing game conditions and opponent actions.
- Prioritize: Prioritize tasks based on their point value and the robot’s ability to perform them effectively.
- Communicate: Communicate effectively with your alliance partners to coordinate your actions and adapt to changing game conditions.
- Debrief: Debrief after each match to identify areas for improvement and adjust your strategy accordingly.
4.4 Time Management
Do you want to learn how to manage time to improve the robot throughout the competition? Yes, effective time management is crucial in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), given the short build season and the need to balance robot design, construction, programming, and testing. Here are some strategies for effective time management:
- Create a Schedule: Develop a detailed schedule that outlines key milestones and deadlines for each stage of the project.
- Prioritize Tasks: Prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency.
- Delegate: Delegate tasks to team members based on their skills and expertise.
- Time Tracking: Track the time spent on each task to identify areas where time is being wasted or where additional resources are needed.
- Regular Meetings: Hold regular team meetings to review progress, identify challenges, and adjust the schedule as needed.
- Be Realistic: Be realistic about the amount of time required to complete each task and avoid overcommitting.
- Contingency Plans: Develop contingency plans to address unexpected delays or challenges.
4.5 Resource Management
Do you want to be economic in the competition? Yes, efficient resource management is essential for FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams, given limited budgets, materials, and tools. Here are some strategies for effective resource management:
- Budget: Develop a detailed budget that outlines all anticipated expenses.
- Inventory: Maintain an inventory of all materials and tools.
- Negotiate: Negotiate with suppliers to obtain discounts or donations.
- Sponsors: Seek sponsorships to obtain additional funding or resources.
- Recycle: Recycle materials whenever possible to reduce waste and save money.
- Share Resources: Share resources with other teams to reduce costs and promote collaboration.
- Prevent Waste: Implement measures to prevent waste and minimize unnecessary expenses.
These strategies can help teams manage their time and resources effectively, ensuring that they can complete their robots on time and within budget.
5. Resources for FRC Teams
Are you trying to gather resources for FRC Teams? Yes, there are many resources available to FRC teams to support their efforts, including online forums, workshops, and mentor networks.
5.1 Official FIRST Resources
Do you want to find the FIRST official resources? Yes, FIRST provides a variety of resources for FRC teams, including the Game Manual, team updates, online forums, and training materials.
Resources | Description |
---|---|
Website | The FIRST website (www.firstinspires.org) is the primary source of information for FRC teams, providing access to the Game Manual, team updates, event schedules, and other important resources. |
Forums | The FIRST forums are online discussion boards where teams can ask questions, share ideas, and collaborate with other teams. |
Team Updates | FIRST releases Team Updates throughout the season to clarify rules, answer questions, and provide additional information about the competition. |
Training Materials | FIRST provides training materials for teams, including online tutorials, workshops, and webinars, covering a variety of topics such as robot design, programming, and safety. |
Grants | FIRST offers grants to help teams cover the costs of registration, equipment, and travel, and grants are available to teams that meet certain criteria, such as financial need or geographic location. According to FIRST, a grant is the best help for rookies. |
5.2 Online Forums and Communities
Are you looking for online community discussions? Yes, online forums and communities provide a platform for FRC teams to connect with each other, ask questions, and share ideas.
Forums | Description |
---|---|
Chief Delphi | Chief Delphi is a popular online forum for FRC teams, offering a wide range of discussions on topics such as robot design, programming, and strategy. |
Reddit FRC | The Reddit FRC subreddit is a community for FRC teams to share news, ask questions, and discuss topics related to the competition. |
Facebook Groups | There are many Facebook groups dedicated to FRC, where teams can connect with each other, ask questions, and share information. |
Discord Servers | There are several Discord servers dedicated to FRC, where teams can chat in real-time, share files, and collaborate on projects. |
Team Websites | Many FRC teams have their websites, where they share information about their team, their robot, and their experiences in the competition. |
Social Media | Many FRC teams use social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to share updates about their team, their robot, and their activities. A team’s social media may also be a good source for new teammates. |
5.3 Mentors and Coaches
Do you want to be guided by a mentor or coach? Yes, mentors and coaches play a crucial role in guiding FRC teams, providing expertise, support, and guidance.
Mentors | Description |
---|---|
Technical | Technical mentors have expertise in areas such as robot design, programming, and electrical systems, and provide guidance and support to teams in these areas. |
Strategic | Strategic mentors help teams develop strategies for gameplay, scouting, and alliance selection, and also provide guidance on team organization, fundraising, and outreach. |
Industry | Industry mentors work in fields related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and bring real-world experience to FRC teams. A strategic mentor is a good contact for industry opportunities, according to the University of Colorado Boulder. |
Alumni | Alumni mentors are former FRC team members who have graduated from high school and gone on to college or careers. They provide valuable insights and advice based on their experiences in the competition, helping teams avoid common mistakes and maximize their potential. Also, alumni mentors can often help network students with industry mentors. |
5.4 Workshops and Training Events
Do you want to participate in a workshop to build up your skills? Yes, workshops and training events offer opportunities for FRC teams to learn new skills, network with other teams, and gain valuable insights from experts.
Events | Description |
---|---|
Pre-Season | Pre-season workshops and training events are held before the start of the FRC season and cover a variety of topics, such as robot design, programming, and safety. |
Regional | Regional workshops and training events are held during regional competitions and provide opportunities for teams to learn from each other, network with other teams, and gain insights from experts. |
Championship | Championship workshops and training events are held during the FIRST Championship and offer advanced training on topics such as robot optimization, strategy, and leadership. The FIRST Championship offers the best networking. |
5.5 Funding and Sponsorship Opportunities
Are you struggling with your budget? Yes, funding and sponsorship opportunities are essential for FRC teams to cover the costs of registration, equipment, travel, and other expenses.
- Grants: FIRST and other organizations offer grants to help teams cover the costs of registration, equipment, and travel.
- Sponsorships: Teams can seek sponsorships from local businesses, corporations, and individuals to obtain funding or in-kind donations.
- Fundraising: Teams can organize fundraising events, such as car washes, bake sales, and crowdfunding campaigns, to raise money for their team.
- In-Kind Donations: Teams can solicit in-kind donations of materials, equipment, and services from local businesses and individuals.
- Government Funding: Some government agencies offer funding opportunities for STEM education programs, including FRC teams.
- Crowdfunding: Teams can use crowdfunding platforms to raise money from a large number of individuals.
6. Understanding Robot Rules and Regulations
Are you trying to understand the robot regulations for the FRC? Yes, understanding the robot rules and regulations is crucial for FRC teams to ensure compliance, safety, and fair competition.
6.1 Size and Weight Restrictions
Do you want to know what size and weight your robot should be? Yes, size and weight restrictions specify the maximum dimensions and weight limits for robots, ensuring that they can safely operate on the playing field and do not pose a hazard to other participants.
Specifications | Limits/Rules |
---|---|
Size | The Game Manual specifies the maximum dimensions for robots, including height, width, and length, ensuring that robots can fit within the boundaries of the playing field and navigate obstacles. |
Weight | The Game Manual specifies the maximum weight limit for robots, ensuring that robots can be safely transported and do not pose a safety hazard to participants. |
Inspection | Robots are subject to inspection by event officials to ensure compliance with size and weight restrictions, and teams must make necessary adjustments to their robots to meet the requirements. |
Penalties | Teams that violate size and weight restrictions may be subject to penalties, such as disqualification from matches or removal from the competition, so it is essential to adhere to the rules to avoid penalties and maintain fairness. |
Design Impact | Size and weight restrictions impact robot design decisions, as teams must carefully consider the size and weight of each component to meet the requirements. As a result, it’s best to try to use lighter components whenever possible. According to FIRST, that is a design for efficiency and can lead to higher scores. |
6.2 Motor and Electrical Component Rules
Do you want to know what motors you can use in the competition? Yes, motor and electrical component rules specify the types of motors, batteries, controllers, and other electrical components that teams are allowed to use in their robots, ensuring safety and fair competition.
Components | Rules/Requirements |
---|---|
Motors | The Game Manual specifies the types of motors that teams are allowed to use, including limitations on motor size, voltage, and current draw, ensuring that robots are powered by safe and reliable motors. |
Batteries | The Game Manual specifies the types of batteries that teams are allowed to use, including requirements for voltage, capacity, and safety features, ensuring that robots are powered by safe and reliable batteries. |
Wiring | The Game Manual provides guidelines for wiring and electrical systems, including requirements for wire gauge, insulation, and connectors, ensuring that electrical systems are safe and reliable. |
Inspections | Robots are subject to inspection by event officials to ensure compliance with motor and electrical |