Design Competition Robot
30 minutesAnalyze game rules, define scoring strategy, and prioritize reliability over complexity.
Intermediate4-8 weeks
Competition Robot Build
Complete guide for competition robot build — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
competition teamsFTC/FRC students
Workflow
Calculate Performance Targets
45 minutesSize drivetrain speed, payload capacity, and battery runtime for full match duration.
Build Hardware
2-4 hoursBuild drivetrain and game mechanism, wire electronics, and add quick-swap spare parts.
Test and Debug
1 hourRun full match simulations, stress-test mechanisms, and practice driver controls under time pressure.
Tools Used
- Payload CapacityPrimary
Verify mechanism handles game piece weight at full arm extension.
- Robot Speed CalculatorPrimary
Size drivetrain gear ratio for required field traversal speed.
- Robot Battery Mission Energy PlannerSupporting
Confirm battery lasts full match plus alliance selection rounds.
- Actuator Force CalculatorReference
Verify game mechanism actuators produce required force under load.
Checklist
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Compliance
Planning
Quality
Preparation
Safety
Reference Materials
Competition PrioritiesTable
Key benchmarks for competition robot build.
| Priority | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 40% | Finish matches |
| Strategy | 30% | Score max |
| Speed | 20% | If reliable |
Reliability RuleFormula
Simple mechanism that works beats complex mechanism that fails
Spare PartsStandard
Bring duplicate critical parts — competition floor has no Amazon.
Reliability First
A robot that finishes every match at 80% speed beats one that fails spectacularly at 120%.
Spare Everything
Pack duplicate belts, motors, and fasteners — competition pits have no overnight shipping.
Simple Mechanisms
Four-bar linkages and compliant wheels outperform complex pneumatic systems that fail under match pressure.
Safety Notes
- Competition robots can pinch, crush, and move at high speed — test behind barriers with emergency stop ready.
- Charge LiPo batteries only in fire-safe bags in the pit area, away from other teams' robots.