Game Manual Part 1

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2018-2019 FIRST® Tech Challenge

Game Manual Part 1

2 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

Sponsor Thank You
Thank you to our generous sponsors for your continued support of the FIRST® Tech Challenge!

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Volunteer Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to volunteer for a FIRST® Tech Challenge event. FIRST® and FIRST® Tech
Challenge rely heavily on volunteers to ensure events run smoothly and are a fun experience for teams and
their families, which could not happen without people like you. With over 5,500 teams competing yearly, your
dedication and commitment are essential to the success of each event and the FIRST Tech Challenge
program. Thank you for your time and effort in supporting the mission of FIRST!

Revision History
Revision
1

Date
7/11/2018

Description
Initial Release

Contents
Contents ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
1.0 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 What is FIRST® Tech Challenge? ............................................................................................................ 6
1.2 FIRST Core Values .................................................................................................................................. 6
2.0 Gracious Professionalism®........................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Gracious Professionalism for Volunteers .................................................................................................. 6
3.0 Youth Protection Program............................................................................................................................ 6
3.1 Youth Protection Expectations and Guidelines ......................................................................................... 6
3.2 NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION ...................................................................................................... 7
4.0 The Tournament – Definitions and Rules ..................................................................................................... 7
4.1 Overview .................................................................................................................................................. 7
4.2 Tournament Definitions ............................................................................................................................ 7
4.3 Tournament Rules.................................................................................................................................... 8
5.0 Tournament Day Outline ............................................................................................................................ 13
5.1 Tournament Schedule ............................................................................................................................ 14
5.2 Team Check-In ...................................................................................................................................... 14
5.2.1 Consent and Release Forms ........................................................................................................... 14
5.2.2 Team Check-In Packets .................................................................................................................. 14
5.3 Robot and Field Inspection ..................................................................................................................... 14
5.4 Judges’ Interviews.................................................................................................................................. 14
5.5 Drivers’ Meeting ..................................................................................................................................... 15
5.6 Practice Time ......................................................................................................................................... 15
5.7 Opening Ceremony ................................................................................................................................ 15
5.8 Qualification Matches ............................................................................................................................. 15
5.9 Alliance Selection ................................................................................................................................... 17
5.10 Elimination Matches ............................................................................................................................. 17
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5.11 Awards and Closing Ceremony ............................................................................................................ 18
5.12 Team Spirit & Styling ............................................................................................................................ 18
5.13 Banners and Flags ............................................................................................................................... 19
5.14 Spectators and Etiquette ...................................................................................................................... 19
5.15 Scouting ............................................................................................................................................... 19
6.0 Tournament Types..................................................................................................................................... 20
6.1 Scrimmage ............................................................................................................................................. 20
6.2 Meets and League Play.......................................................................................................................... 20
6.3 Qualifying Tournaments and League Tournaments ................................................................................ 20
6.4 Super-Qualifying Tournaments............................................................................................................... 20
6.5 Championship Tournaments .................................................................................................................. 20
7.0 Eligibility and Advancement Criteria ........................................................................................................... 20
7.1 Eligibility to Compete in Official FIRST Tech Challenge Tournaments:................................................... 20
7.2 Eligibility for Judged Awards .................................................................................................................. 21
7.2.1 Inspire Award Eligibility .................................................................................................................... 21
7.3 Eligibility for Advancement ..................................................................................................................... 21
7.4 Order of Advancement ........................................................................................................................... 22
8.0 The Robot .................................................................................................................................................. 23
8.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................ 23
8.2 Robot Control System ............................................................................................................................ 23
8.2.1 Robot Technology Definitions .......................................................................................................... 23
8.3 Robot Rules ........................................................................................................................................... 25
8.3.1 General Robot Rules ....................................................................................................................... 25
8.3.2 Robot Mechanical Parts and Materials Rules................................................................................... 28
8.3.3 Robot Electrical Parts and Materials Rules ...................................................................................... 29
8.3.4 Robot Software Rules ...................................................................................................................... 35
8.4 Team Marker Rules................................................................................................................................ 37
9.0 Robot Inspection ......................................................................................................................................... 37
10.0 Judging & Award Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 39
11.0 FIRST® Tech Challenge Dean’s List ........................................................................................................ 39
11.1 Eligibility ............................................................................................................................................... 40
11.2 Criteria ................................................................................................................................................. 40
11.3 Dean’s List Nominations....................................................................................................................... 41
Appendix A – Resources ................................................................................................................................. 42
Game Forum Q&A ....................................................................................................................................... 42
FIRST Tech Challenge Game Manuals ........................................................................................................ 42

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FIRST Headquarters Pre-Event Support ...................................................................................................... 42
FIRST Websites ........................................................................................................................................... 42
FIRST Tech Challenge Social Media ........................................................................................................... 42
Feedback ..................................................................................................................................................... 42
Appendix B – Robot Inspection Checklist ........................................................................................................ 43
Appendix C – Field Inspection Checklist .......................................................................................................... 45
Appendix D – Control Award Content Sheet & Instructions .............................................................................. 47
Appendix E – Control Award Submission Form ............................................................................................... 48

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1.0 Introduction
1.1 What is FIRST® Tech Challenge?
FIRST® Tech Challenge is a student-centered program that focuses on giving students a unique and
stimulating experience. Each year, teams engage in a new game where they design, build, test, and program
autonomous and driver operated robots that must perform a series of tasks. To learn more about FIRST® Tech
Challenge and other FIRST® Programs, visit www.firstinspires.org.

1.2 FIRST Core Values
We express the FIRST® philosophies of Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition® through our Core
Values:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas.
Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems.
Impact: We apply what we learn to improve our world.
Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences.
Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together.
Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do!

2.0 Gracious Professionalism®
FIRST® uses this term to describe our programs’ intent and Gracious Professionalism® is not clearly defined
for a reason. It has different meanings 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.
Gracious Professionals make valued contributions in a way that is pleasing to others and to
themselves.

In the end, Gracious Professionalism® is part of everyday life. When professionals use their knowledge
graciously and individuals act with integrity and sensitivity, everyone wins, and society benefits.
Watch Dr. Woodie Flowers explain Gracious Professionalism in this short video.

2.1 Gracious Professionalism for Volunteers
It is a good idea to spend time going over this concept with volunteers. Provide volunteers with real-life
examples of Gracious Professionalism in practice before, during, and after the event and recognize great
Gracious Professionalism when you see it in action!

3.0 Youth Protection Program
The FIRST YPP sets minimum standards recommended for all FIRST activities. Adults working in FIRST
programs must be knowledgeable of the standards set by the FIRST YPP, as well as those set by the school
or organization hosting their team.

3.1 Youth Protection Expectations and Guidelines
Coaches and mentors should read and follow the FIRST Youth Protection Program guide. Anything labeled as
required is mandatory in the United States and Canada, and cannot be waived without approval from the

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FIRST Youth Protection Department. FIRST recommends that the standards set forth in the FIRST Youth
Protection Program guide be applied outside of the United States and Canada to the extent possible. At a
minimum, local regulations regarding youth protection must be complied with.
Most up to date forms are available here: http://firstinspires.org/resource-library/youth-protection-policy
The US Screening process, the Canadian Screen process, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), and additional
information are on the FIRST Youth Protection Program Website: http://firstinspires.org/resource-library/youthprotection-policy

3.2 NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST®) does not discriminate based on race,
color, national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a veteran who served in the military, religion, gender,
gender identity, or gender expression in its programs and activities.
Keep updated at: http://www.firstinspires.org/about/legal-notices

4.0 The Tournament – Definitions and Rules
4.1 Overview
Students that engage in the FIRST Tech Challenge program develop STEM skills and practice engineering
principles (like keeping an engineering notebook), while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and
sharing ideas. Tournaments are exciting sporting events with head-to-head competition, judging interviews,
and Teams and Robot performance awards. This section provides critical information that will help Teams
have a fun and successful tournament day.

4.2 Tournament Definitions
Alliance – Each FIRST Tech Challenge match consists of two, two-Team Alliances. These two Teams compete
against an opposing Alliance (also made up of two Teams) to complete the game challenge and to earn the
highest score. At tournaments with more than 20 Teams, the semi-final and final round Alliances consists of
three Teams each. However, only two of those Teams compete during any one match.
Alliance Captain – The student representative from an Alliance’s highest ranked Team chosen to represent an
Alliance during Alliance Selection and for the final Elimination Matches. The entire Team is called the Alliance
Captain.
Alliance Selection – The process by which top-ranked Teams choose Alliance Partners for the Elimination
Matches.
Alliance Station –The designated “Red” or “Blue” Alliance area next to the Playing Field where the Drivers
and Coach stand or move within during a match. Station One is the Alliance Station closest to the audience.
Competition Area – The Area where all the Playing Fields, Alliance Stations, scoring tables, and other
tournament officials and tables are located.
Drive Team - Up to three representatives (two Drivers and one Coach) from the same Team. The Drivers are
two student Team members. The Coach of the Drive Team can be a student Team member, or the adult coach
of the Team.
Elimination Matches – A match used to decide the Winning Alliance. Alliances of two or three Teams face off in
a series of matches, with two Teams per Alliance playing in each match. The first Alliance to win two matches
continues to the next round.
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Playing Field – The part of the Competition Area that includes the 12 ft. x 12 ft. (3.66 m. x. 3.66 m) field and all
the elements described in the official field drawings.
Pit Area – The Pit Area is a separate space from the Competition Area where Teams can work on their Robot
between matches. The Team is provided a pit space which includes a table, a power source, and is 10 ft. (3.05
m) x. 10 ft. (3.05 m). Some pit spaces may vary based on tournament venue size limits. Check with your
Tournament Director for official pit space sizes.
Practice Match – A match used to provide time for Teams to get familiar with the official Playing Field.
Qualification Match – A match used to decide the Teams that qualify for the Alliance Selection and move on to
the Elimination Matches. Alliances compete to earn Ranking Points and TieBreaker Points.
Ranking Points – The first basis for ranking Teams. Teams earn Ranking Points for winning (two points), tying
(one point), and losing (zero points) in a Qualification Match.
Robot - Any mechanism that has passed inspection and a Team places on the Playing Field before the start of
a Match. To be legal, Robots must comply with the Robot Build rules in section 8 of this manual.
Sports Start – A model of competition where Teams start and stop their Robot after the 3-2-1 countdown.
Surrogate Match – Surrogate Matches are scheduled into the Qualification rounds of a tournament if the
number of Teams at the tournament is not evenly divisible by four. The Surrogate Match is a way to ensure all
Teams compete in a minimum of five matches. This is an extra Qualification Match for those Teams scheduled
in a Surrogate Match and does not count in the standings for Ranking Points or TieBreaker Points. These
matches are important in the entire standings of the tournament. These matches should be played as if they
were regular Qualification Matches. Surrogate Matches will be marked on the official Qualification Match
schedule.
Team – An official FIRST Tech Challenge Team consists of no more than 15 student Team members. All
Teams in North America are required to register through the Team Registration System. Teams must have a
minimum of TWO Lead Coaches or Mentors that have registered through the Team Registration System and
have passed the Youth Protection Program screening. The Team must be in good standing through the
registration system to compete in FIRST Tech Challenge official tournaments.
TieBreaker Points – The second basis of ranking Teams. TieBreaker Points are used as the tiebreakers when
Teams have equal Ranking Points. TieBreaker Points are awarded in the amount of the final score of the
losing Alliance in a Qualification Match. Both Alliances receive the pre-penalized score of the losing Alliance as
their TieBreaker Points.

4.3 Tournament Rules
 Egregious behavior by any Team, Team member, or other representative of the Team is not tolerated at a
FIRST Tech Challenge tournament. Violations of this rule result in penalties to the Team, and/or the issuance of
a Yellow or Red Card. Egregious behavior includes, but is not limited to, repeated and/or flagrant violation of
game rules, unsafe behavior or actions, uncivil behavior towards volunteers, competition personnel, or
tournament attendees.
 Yellow cards and red cards are used in the FIRST Tech Challenge to manage Team and Robot
behavior that does not align with the mission of FIRST. Yellow and red cards are not limited to just the
Competition Area. Teams that display egregious behavior in the Pit Area, judging rooms, stands, or any
other location of the tournament can be issued a yellow or red card for egregious behavior.

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Egregious or repeated (3 or more) Robot or Team member behavior at the tournament can result in a yellow
and/or Red card. Yellow cards are additive, meaning that a second yellow card is automatically converted to a
red card. A Team is issued a red card for any subsequent incident in which they receive an additional yellow
card, for example, earning a second yellow card during a single match.
Yellow and Red Cards at the Competition Field
The Head Referee may assign a yellow card as a warning, or a red card for Disqualification in a match. A
yellow card or red card is signaled by the Head Referee standing in front of the Team’s Alliance Station and
holding a yellow card and/or red card in the air.
To issue the second yellow card, the Head Referee will stand in front of the Team’s Alliance Station and hold a
yellow card and red card. The Head Referee will signal the second yellow card after the match has ended.
A Team that has received either a yellow card or a red card carries a yellow card into following matches,
except as noted below. A red card results in match Disqualification. Multiple red cards may lead to
tournament disqualification. Once a Team receives a yellow card or red card, the Team number is
presented with a yellow background on the audience screen at the beginning of all following matches. This
is a reminder to the Team, referees, and audience the Team carries a yellow card.
Yellow cards do not carry over from the Qualification Matches to the Elimination Matches. During the
Elimination Matches, yellow and red cards count against the entire Alliance, not to a specific Team. If a
Team receives a yellow card or red card, it results in the entire Alliance receiving the yellow card or red card
for that match. If two different Teams on the same Alliance are issued yellow cards, the entire Alliance is
issued a red card. A red card results in zero (0) points for that match, and the Alliance loses the match. If
both Alliances receive red cards, the Alliance which committed the action earning the red card first
chronologically loses the match.

Yellow and Red Cards off the Competition Field
Teams can incur yellow and red cards for their actions off the competition field. Egregious behavior off the
competition field should be reported to the Tournament Director. The Tournament Director will first consult with
the coach of the Team about the behavior of the team or its members, explain the ways in which the behavior
is considered egregious, and give a warning to discontinue this behavior. If the behavior persists, the
Tournament Director will work with FIRST Headquarters to assess whether or not the behavior exhibited by the
team is considered egregious and if a yellow and/or red card should be issued. If it is determined that the
Team should receive a yellow and/or red card, the Tournament Director will report to the Head Referee. The
yellow and/or red card will be recorded into the scoring software based on the next match played by the team
during Qualification Matches. If a Team is competing in Elimination Matches receives a yellow or red card
between the Qualification Matches and Elimination Matches, the card will be applied to the first Elimination
Match. If a Team receives a yellow or red card during the Elimination Matches for off field behavior, the yellow
or red card applies to the current or just completed Elimination Match.
 Referees have final game play and scoring authority during the competition. Their rulings are final.
a. The referees will not review any recorded match replays or photographs.
b. All questions about a match or scores must be brought forward to the Referees by using the Referee
question box located in the Competition Area. Only one student from an Alliance can enter the
question box. All questions must be brought forward within the outlined time:
i.

Qualification Matches: A Team must enter the question box to dispute a Match within a period of
three (3) matches following the disputed Match. Teams participating in the final two Qualification
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Matches must report to the question box within 5 minutes after scores after the announcement
of the match score.
ii. Elimination Matches and Final Matches: A Team must enter the Referee Question Box to
dispute a match before the start of the next match played by the Alliance, regardless if the Team
is playing in the next match. The next match played could involve different Alliances. Questions
about the last match of the Finals must be brought to the question box no later than 5 minutes
after the announcement of the match score.
Students must support their questions by referencing specific rules or posts to the Q&A section of the
official FIRST Tech Challenge Forum. Team members must ask their questions in a gracious and
respectful manner.
c. Team members cannot enter the Playing Field for any reason other than to place or retrieve their
Robots. Inspection of the Playing Field elements by Team members to determine scoring is not
allowed. Individuals and Teams that violate this rule will be subject to possible Team penalties that
could include match disqualifications or even removal from the tournament.
 No Team, Team Member, or tournament attendee is allowed to set up their own Wi-Fi 802.11 (2.4GHz or
5GHz) wireless communication in the venue. Non-allowed wireless communications include, but are not limited
to:
a.
b.
c.
d.

Cellular hot spots (for example, cell phones, tablets, MiFi).
Ad-hoc networks.
Nintendo DS peer-to-peer.
Bluetooth communication with Robots in the Competition Area.

No Team, Team Member, or tournament attendee shall interfere with a Team’s Wi-Fi Direct® communication
with their own Robot.
The Penalty for violating rule  is disqualification of the entire Team from the tournament and their removal
from the venue property. Teams may not appeal the penalty and no refunds will be given for registration fees,
prepaid meals, etc. FIRST may conduct a post-tournament review and decide if any added penalties will be
imposed on the offending Team.
Teams are encouraged to report wireless security vulnerabilities to the Field Technical Advisor (FTA) at a
tournament. Teams should always keep in mind Gracious Professionalism®, and therefore only report valid and
verifiable violations of this rule. After the Field Technical Advisor is alerted of a potential rule violation, he or
she will confer with the Head Referee. The Field Technical Advisor and Head Referee will further explore the
potential violation of this rule. The Head Referee will work with FIRST Headquarters staff to determine if rule
 has been violated, and to disqualify the offending Team.
 Wi-Fi Direct® connectivity between the Android devices used as the Robot Controller and the Drivers
Station is allowed. Additionally, in the Pits only, Wi-Fi Direct® connectivity between the same Android devices
and an additional computing device (phone, tablet or computer) is allowed for Robot programming purposes
only. No other wireless communication is allowed.
The penalty for violating rule  is disqualification of the entire Team from the tournament and their removal
from the venue property. The Head Referee will work with FIRST Headquarters staff to determine if rule 
has been violated, and to disqualify the offending Team. Teams may not appeal the penalty and no refunds will

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be given for registration fees, prepaid meals, etc. FIRST may conduct a post- tournament review and
determine if any additional penalties are to be imposed on the offending Team.
 Team members may be asked by the Tournament Director to use a specific Wi-Fi channel on the
tournament day. Teams must comply with the request of the Tournament Director if asked to use a specific WiFi Channel when supported by an approved Android Device. Teams that have Android Devices that support
channel changing must comply with the request of the Tournament Director to switch their channel before
playing in the next match.
 Each registered Team may enter only one Robot (a Robot built to play the current season’s game
challenge) into the FIRST Tech Challenge competition. It is expected that Teams will make changes to their
Robot throughout the season and at competitions.
a. It is against this rule to compete with one Robot while a second is being adjusted or assembled at a
tournament.
b. It is against this rule to switch back and forth between multiple Robots at a tournament.
c. It is against this rule to register and attend concurrent tournaments with a second Robot.
d. It is against this rule to use a Robot built by another Team at a tournament.
Violations of this rule will immediately be considered egregious and a deliberate violation of the rule.
 Only three Team representatives are allowed in the Competition Area; two (2) student drivers, and one
(1) coach who are identified by badges labeled ‘driver’ or ‘coach.’ These badges are interchangeable within a
Team between matches. Only student Team members wearing a badge labeled as ‘driver’ may drive the Robot
during the match. Team representatives beyond the two student drivers and one coach will be asked to leave
the Competition Area immediately.
 Pre-Match Robot Setup - Team members cannot enter the Playing Field for any reason other than to
place/retrieve their Robots. Teams may not measure, test, or adjust field or game elements prior to the start of
a match. Inspection of the Playing Field elements by Team members to determine scoring is not allowed.
Individuals and Teams that violate this rule will be subject to possible penalties that could include match
disqualifications or even removal from the tournament.
 Pre-Match Robot Placement – At the beginning of a match, each Alliance Robot must be set up on the
Playing Field according to section 1.5.1 Pre-Match in the Game Manual Part 2. After Robots are set up on the
Playing Field, Drive Teams must to stand completely inside the Alliance Station at the location (Station one or
Station two) specified by the Qualification Match schedule.
a. During the Qualification Matches, the blue Alliance Robots are set up on the Playing Field first, unless
the red Alliance waives their right to set up on the Playing Field second.
b. During the Elimination Matches, the 3rd and 4th seeded Alliance Robots are set up on the Playing Field
first, unless the higher seeded Alliance waives their right to set up on the Playing Field second. Alliance
color doesn’t change the seeding of a Team during the Elimination Matches. If the 4th seed defeats the
1st seed in the Semi-Finals, they will still have to place their Robot on the field first in the Finals because
their seeding will be lower than the 2 nd or 3rd seed.
c. During Elimination Matches, 3 Team Alliances may only place Robots that are intended to compete in
that match. Once two Robots are placed for the two teams competing in a match, the Alliance cannot
swap in the 3rd Alliance’s Robot for a Robot already placed.

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d. Teams may implicitly waive their right to place their Robots on the Playing Field last by placing their
Robots on the Playing Field before or with the opposing Alliance. There is no need to tell the referees;
Teams waive their right by the act of placing their Robots on the Playing Field.
e. Teams that unnecessarily delay the beginning of a match and/or field reset will incur a Minor Penalty for
each offense.
Drive Teams are expected to stage their Robots for a match, and remove it from the
Playing Field afterwards, safely and swiftly. Drive Team efforts that either
intentionally or unintentionally delay the start of a match or the Field reset are not
allowed. Examples include, but are not limited to:
•
•

Late arrival to the Playing Field.
Robot maintenance once on the Playing Field.

 The state of the field (game and scoring elements) is recorded as the match is played by the Score
Tracker. Scores may not be announced to Teams until some time after the match is complete. At some
tournaments, live scoring software may be used to show the status of the match as it is played, with the final,
official score displayed at the end of the match.
 There are no time-outs during the Qualification Matches.
 If no member of the Drive Team is present in the Driver Station at the start of a match, that Team is
declared a “no show”. If a Robot cannot report for a match, at least one member of the Drive Team should
report to the Playing Field for the match.
 Teams will receive a minimum of five minutes (5:00) between consecutive matches.
 During the elimination rounds, each Alliance will be allotted ONE time-out of no more than three
minutes (3:00). Time-outs must be called at least two minutes (2:00) before their next match’s starting time.
The time-out begins at the time their match was going to start.
 All Team members, coaches, and their guests must wear ANSI Z87.1 certified safety glasses while in
the Pit or Competition Area. Prescription glasses with ANSI Z87.1 approved commercial off the shelf side
shields are also allowed.
NOTE: FIRST requires all Teams to bring and supply ANSI-approved safety glasses for its Team members,
mentors, and guests for each competition. Tinted lenses are allowed if tournament personnel can see the
volunteer’s, spectator’s, or Team member’s eyes through the safety glasses. Sunglasses or deeply shaded
safety glasses used in our indoor tournament environment are not acceptable.
 Skateboards, roller skates, ‘hover boards’, and drones are not allowed at any tournament. These items
can create safety hazards to the Teams, spectators, or volunteers attending the tournament.
 No live bands are allowed in the audience or Pit. No loud music, audio systems, whistles, banging
sticks, blow horns, etc. are allowed. They prevent Teams from hearing important announcements. Power may
be shut off and/or noisemakers confiscated.
 Batteries must be charged in an open, well-ventilated area.

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 Painting or applying harmful products, sprays, or aerosols are not allowed anywhere in the tournament.
This includes the Pit, Competition, and spectator areas.
Note: Teams may apply antistatic spray to their Robot if done outside the venue.
 Pit displays may not exceed 10 ft. (3.05 m) x. 10 ft. (3.05 m) x. 10 ft. (3.05 m) or a limit set by the
venue, whichever is less.
 Teams are not allowed to use radios and walkie-talkies anywhere in the venue.
 There is no running anywhere during the tournament. This is a safety hazard.
 Teams are not allowed to save seating space as there is often not enough seating to hold everyone.
Repeated offenses could be considered egregious, and Teams could face consequences for violating this rule.
 Soldering, gluing, brazing, or large power tools are not allowed in the Pit or Competitions Areas unless
the Tournament Director specifically allows them.
 Because of site rules or contracts, FIRST cannot allow Teams or individuals to sell items, such as Tshirts, pins, etc., at any tournaments. Fundraising for a cause is allowed with consent of the Tournament
Director; fundraising for a Team is not allowed.
 Check with the Tournament Director before bringing food to a tournament, as some venues will not
allow outside food on-site because of contracts and agreements.
 Open-toed or open-backed shoes are not allowed in the Pit Area or in the Competition Area.
 Once the Autonomous portion of the Match ends, Drive Teams will have 5 seconds to pick up their
Driver Station. The scoring system display will provide visual and audio cues for Drive Teams to pick up their
Driver Stations. After the 5 seconds, there will be a 3-2-1 countdown and the Driver Controlled period of the
Match will begin.
 Teams competing in a Meet, League Tournament, Qualifying Tournament, and Championship
Tournament will compete in no fewer than 5 Matches, and no more than 6 Matches.

5.0 Tournament Day Outline
FIRST Tech Challenge tournaments pack many activities into one day. The main events for a tournament
(Qualifying Tournament, League Tournament, State Championship, World Championship) are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Team Check-in
Robot and Field Inspection
Judges’ Interviews
Drivers’ Meeting
Opening Ceremony
Qualification Matches
Alliance Selection
Elimination Matches
Awards and Closing Ceremony

Teams competing in a League and attending Meets will only participate in the following activities during the
meet:
1. Team Check-in
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2. Robot and Field Inspection
3. Driver’s Meeting
4. Qualification Matches

5.1 Tournament Schedule
Tournament schedules will be available through the Tournament Director before or at the tournament.
Qualification Match schedules are created on tournament day after all Teams have checked-in and have
passed all Inspections.

5.2 Team Check-In
5.2.1 Consent and Release Forms
Each student competing at a FIRST Tech Challenge tournament must have a signed consent and release form
completed by a parent or legal guardian. Students cannot compete without a signed consent and release
form. These forms can be filled out electronically or by hard copy.
•

Electronically – A printed roster showing that each student’s parent or guardian has electronically filled
out the consent and release form online. This is shown on the roster with a green checkmark.

•

Hard copy – The coach or mentor must bring a signed hard copy of the form signed by the student’s
parent or legal guardian.

The roster from the Team Registration System MUST be handed in at event registration, regardless if the
coach is handing in hard copies of each consent and release form. If the roster from the Team Registration
System is blank, the coach should write in the names of each student competing at the tournament.
5.2.2 Team Check-In Packets
Once checked in, the Coach will receive their Team packet. Team Packets generally include Drive Team
badges, a judging schedule, a map of the venue, and other information that is important to the Teams. The
Team should review the schedule of events for the day. Teams should set up their Pit Area and get familiar
with the venue, including where the practice and Playing Fields are and where judging takes place.

5.3 Robot and Field Inspection
FIRST Tech Challenge Robots are required to pass Robot and Field inspections before being allowed to
compete. These inspections ensure that all Robot rules are met. A copy of the official FIRST Tech Challenge
“Robot Inspection Sheet” and “Field Inspection Sheet” are found in Appendices A and B of this manual. The
“Robot Inspection Sheet” must be used by Teams as a guide to pre-inspect their Robot.

5.4 Judges’ Interviews
At FIRST Tech Challenge tournaments, there are three parts to the judging process: 1) interview with judges;
2) evaluation of performance during the tournament; and 3) evaluation of the Engineering Notebook. Each
Team will have a ten to fifteen minute “fact-finding” interview with a panel of two or three judges. During the
interview, students will get a minimum of 5 minutes to present to the judges. After the Teams five-minute
presentation, the Judges will have the opportunity to ask questions about the Team, the Robot, outreach
efforts, etc.
The judges’ interviews take place before any Qualification Matches so the entire Team may be interviewed.
When Teams arrive at the tournament, the interview schedule should be included in the registration materials.
Teams must know when they will be interviewed and arrive to the interview room early. Each Team should
have at least two student Team representatives and the Robot available; the entire Team is encouraged to join

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in. Mentors (no more than two) are welcome to watch the Judges’ Interview at most tournaments, but cannot
take part in the interview.
Teams may not opt out of Judges’ Interviews. Teams may attend their scheduled Judges’ Interviews if their
Robots have not passed inspection.

5.5 Drivers’ Meeting
The Drivers’ Meeting takes place before the start of Qualification Matches and is a time when the Drive Team
meets with the referees. During this time, the Head Referee gives a brief outline of what is expected of Teams.
They will provide venue specific information, such as queuing paths, and explains any signals and commands
referees will give during matches.

5.6 Practice Time
At some tournaments, practice fields are available for Teams to practice throughout the tournament. Practice
time is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Teams should check with the Tournament Director if practice
time will be allowed on tournament day.

5.7 Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony is the official kickoff of the tournament for the Teams, volunteers, and spectators.
During the opening ceremony, a tournament official or the Emcee will welcome the Team, introduce dignitaries
and other special guests, and introduce the judges and the referees. Then the game will be described (usually
with a video) and immediately after, the Qualification Matches take place.
Teams that are scheduled in the first four Qualification Matches will be asked by volunteers to line up before
the opening ceremonies. The Qualification Match schedule will be available before the start of opening
ceremony. It is the Team’s responsibility to check the schedule and make sure they are on time for their
matches.

5.8 Qualification Matches
Teams are randomly assigned to Qualification Matches and Alliances. The Qualification Match schedule is
available before opening ceremonies on the day of the tournament. This schedule shows Alliance partners and
match pairings. It also shows the Alliance’s color (red or blue) and the position in the Alliance Station (1 or 2)
for the Drive Team. These matches start immediately after the opening ceremonies and follow the Qualification
Match schedule. The queue volunteer crew works together throughout the day to line up Teams for the
matches and maintain the schedule. Teams must pay attention to the match schedule and listen for
announcements throughout the day. Teams need to know when they will compete, find out the number of the
last match before lunch, and find out which match is the last match of the tournament day.
All Teams are ranked based on the same number of Qualification Matches. Team may be required to play a
Surrogate Match, which is an extra Match marked by an asterisk on the match schedule. The additional
Surrogate Match does not count towards their standings during the tournament.
At the conclusion of each match, Ranking Points and TieBreaker Points are awarded:
•

•

Teams receive Ranking Points based on the following:
o Winning Teams of a Qualification Match each receive two (2) Ranking Points.
o Losing Teams of a Qualification Match receive zero (0) Ranking Points.
o If a Qualification Match ends in a tie, all four Teams receive one (1) Ranking Point.
o If a Team is disqualified or does not show up for a match, they receive zero (0) Ranking Points.
TieBreaker Points are awarded based on the following:
o The number of TieBreaker Points assigned for each match is that of the losing Alliance’s score.
Both Alliances receive the pre-penalized score of the losing Alliance as their TieBreaker Points.
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o

o

If a match ends in a tie, both Alliances receive the same number of TieBreaker Points, equal to
the lowest pre-penalized score. If a Team is disqualified, they receive zero (0) TieBreaker
Points.
If both Teams on an Alliance are disqualified, the Teams on the winning Alliance are awarded
their own score as their TieBreaker Points for that match.

Example:

•

•

•
•

Q-1 – The red Alliance has won the match 30-15. Teams 5555 and 4444 will receive two (2) Ranking
points, and Teams 8888 and 6666 receive zero (0) Ranking Points. Teams from both Alliances will
receive 15 TieBreaker Points.
Q-2 – The blue Alliance has won the match 45-15. Teams 7777 and 2222 will receive two (2) Ranking
Points, and Teams 1111 and 3333 will receive zero (0) Ranking Points. Teams from both Alliances will
receive 15 TieBreaker Points.
Q-3 – This match ended in a tie, which will result in Teams from both Alliances receiving one (1)
Ranking Point and thirty (30) TieBreaker Points.
Q-4 – The red Alliance originally had a match score of 15 points (not shown in image), the blue Alliance
had a match score of 45 points. The blue Alliance then incurred a Minor penalty, which added 10 points
to the red Alliances score. The result is the blue Alliance wins, and therefore Teams 5555 and 1111
each receives two (2) Ranking Points. The red Alliance (Teams 2222 and 6666) receives zero (0)
Ranking Points. However, the lowest pre-penalized score between the Alliances is still 15, therefore
both Alliances will receive 15 TieBreaker Points.

Teams may receive credit for a Qualification Match if their Robot is not functioning. To receive credit for the
match, the Robot has passed inspection and at least one member of the Drive Team is present in the Alliance
Station for the scheduled match.
Questions about a match or scores must be must be brought forward to the Referees by using the referee
question box located in the Competition Area. Only one student from an Alliance can enter the question box,
and must do so within a period of three (3) matches following the disputed match.
After all Qualification Matches, the Teams are ranked from first through last based on their total Ranking
Points. If multiple Teams have the same Ranking Points total, these Teams are ranked based on their total
TieBreaker Points. If multiple Teams have the same TieBreaker Points total as well, then these Teams are
ranked based on their highest match score. If still tied, the next highest match score is used until the tie is

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broken. In the unlikely event there is still a tie based on identical match scores, then the Teams are ranked by
a random electronic draw. These rankings are done automatically through the scoring system software.

5.9 Alliance Selection
The number of Teams in the Elimination Matches is based on the number of Teams in the tournament. If there
are 21 or more Teams in the tournament, the Elimination Matches consist of Alliances of 3 Teams each. If
there are 20 Teams or less, then the Alliances consist of 2 Teams each. There are four (4) Alliances that will
compete in the Elimination Matches.
The Alliance Selection consists of several rounds of selections so all Alliance Captains form Elimination Match
Alliances. These Alliances participate in a ladder-type tournament to determine the tournament’s Winning
Alliance. The Alliance Selection is as follows:
•

•
•

•
•

Each Team chooses one student to act as the Team’s representative. These representatives will
continue to the Competition Area at the appointed time to represent their Teams in the Alliance
Selection.
o Teams can bring their scouting documents or communicate by phone with other teammates in
the venue to aid them with their Alliance choices. Teams must remember that if they are
communicating with teammates by phone, they must be gracious and considerate and not hold
up Alliance Selection.
The top four ranked teams are called to the floor first. The student representative of the highest ranked
Team is asked to step forward as the Alliance Captain to invite another available Team to join their
Alliance.
A Team is available if they are not already part of an Alliance, or has not already declined an Alliance
invitation. If a Team accepts, they are moved into that Alliance. If a Team declines, they CANNOT be
invited to another Alliance, but are still available to select their own Alliance if the opportunity arises.
If a Team declines, the Alliance Captain from the inviting Team must extend an invitation to another
Team.
The selection continues until all four Alliance Captains have been appointed and chosen one Alliance
partner.
If there are more than 20 Teams, the same method is used for each Alliance Captain’s second choice.
The third member of each Alliance) from highest seed to lowest seed (that is, 1 → 2 → 3 → 4). Any
Teams remaining after the lowest seeded captain makes their choice do not compete in the Elimination
Matches.

5.10 Elimination Matches
The Elimination Matches are when the Alliances compete to determine who the winning Alliance is. The
matches are played in a seeded format where the top seed goes up against the 4 th seed, and the number 2
seed goes up against the 3rd seed. Alliance colors are assigned as follows:
•

Semi Finals
o
o

•

Seed #1 and Seed #4 compete against each other in the Semi Finals 1; Seed #1 is assigned as
the red Alliance and Seed #4 is assigned as the blue Alliance.
Seed #2 and Seed #3 compete against each other in the Semi Finals 2; Seed #2 is assigned as
the red Alliance, and Seed #3 is assigned as the blue Alliance.

Finals
o
o

The winner of Semi Finals 1 is assigned as the red Alliance.
The winner of Semi Finals 2 is assigned as the blue Alliance.
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In the Elimination Matches, Teams do not get Ranking Points; they get a win, loss or tie. Within each bracket
(Semi-Finals or Finals) of the elimination, matches are played to determine which Alliance advances. The
advancing Alliance is the first Team to win two matches. Any tied matches are replayed until one Alliance has
two wins and advances. An example tournament bracket appears here:

Champion

Finals

Semi Finals

{
{
{

Winner of
Finals

Winner of
Semi Final 1

#1 Seed

#4 Seed

Semi Finals 1

Winner of
Semi Final 2

#2 Seed

#3 Seed

Semi Finals 2

During the Elimination Matches, two Teams from an Alliance compete on the Playing Field. If the Alliance has
three Teams, the Team that sits out the first match must play in the second match, with no exceptions. If the
Alliances play more than two matches in any bracket, any combination of two Alliance Robots may be used.
The Alliance Captain is not required to participate in every match. No special accommodations are made for
Robots that fail during the Semi Final and Final Rounds. Teams should consider the robustness of the Robots
when picking Alliance partners.
If a Team is disqualified during an Elimination Match, the entire Alliance is disqualified and the match is
recorded as a loss. Before each Elimination Match, the Alliance Captain must let the referee know which two
Teams are playing in the next match two (2) minutes before the start of the match.
All questions about a match or scores must be brought forward to the Referees by using the referee question
box located in the Competition Area. Only one student from an Alliance is allowed to enter the question box. A
Team must enter the referee question box to dispute a match before the start of the next match played by the
Alliance, regardless if the Team is participating in the next match. The next match played could involve
different Alliances. Questions about the last match of the Finals must be brought to the question box no later
than 5 minutes after the announcement of the match score.

5.11 Awards and Closing Ceremony
The awards and closing ceremony celebrates the Teams and their accomplishments throughout the
tournament, as well as the volunteers who helped make the tournament possible. At the awards and closing
ceremony, the finalists and winners of each award are announced. At most tournaments, the judges will line up
to high five each Team as they receive an award.

5.12 Team Spirit & Styling
Competing as a Team is exciting as well as rewarding. Part of the fun and reward of being a Team member is
the way the Team styles itself with Team T-shirts, trading buttons, hats, cheers, and costumes.

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When deciding on a Team name or acronym, consider how to work a theme around it to make the Team more
fun and recognizable. Refer to the Marketing and Outreach section of the website for information about FIRST
and FIRST Tech Challenge logo use requirements: https://www.firstinspires.org/brand

5.13 Banners and Flags
Sponsors provide FIRST with banners so we can display them in specified areas as a way of thanking them for
their generosity. We encourage Teams to bring Team flags or sponsor banners, but we ask that you adhere to
the following:
•
•
•

Do not use banners or flags to section off seating. Saving group seats is not allowed.
Hang banners in pit stations only, not on the pit walls.
Teams may bring banners to the Competition Area, but please do not hang them there. This area is
designated for official FIRST sponsors’ banners.

5.14 Spectators and Etiquette
Teams are allowed to have 2 student drivers and 1 coach (the Drive Team) at the Playing Field during their
scheduled matches. Spectators are not allowed in the designated Competition Area at any time. Some
tournaments may provide media passes for one additional Team member to gain access to a designated
“media area”. Access to this area is only allowed with a media pass and only while the media representative’s
Team is on the Playing Field. Spectators blocking the sidelines or accessing the media area without a pass will
be asked to move. Repeated violations of this rule are considered egregious behavior.

5.15 Scouting
During the Qualification Matches, the scoring system selects each Team’s ally and opponent for each match.
In elimination rounds, top ranking Teams can choose their own Alliance partners. Teams should select Alliance
partners with abilities that complement their own strengths. Scouting during the qualifying rounds is a good
way to learn the abilities and limits of the Teams and Robots competing at the tournament.
The following scouting strategy has been provided by the 2007 FIRST® Robotics Competition Chairman’s
Award winners, FIRST Robotics Competition Team #365, the Miracle Workerz.
Teams use different methods to record information about other Teams – paper, computer, tablets, etc. Use
whatever method is most comfortable for your Team. Scouting is important to find out how you complement
other Teams in your Alliance and how you match up against your opponents. No matter how you record it,
focus on information which will be useful to your Team when you meet your Alliance partners to discuss
strategy.
Some possible areas to gather information include:
•
•
•
•

CAPABILITIES – what can the Robot/Team do and what does it not do?
STRATEGIES – what does the Robot/Team do during the match? How does the Team play the game?
PERFORMANCE – how well does the Robot/Team do what it attempts? What are the Robot’s
strengths and weaknesses?
AUTONOMOUS – what does the Robot do in autonomous mode? Does the Team have multiple
program options?

The more data points you can collect on strategies and performance, the better understanding you will have of
a given Team. Information on a Team’s capabilities can be obtained by visiting the Team in the Pit Area or
watching match play.

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6.0 Tournament Types
There are several types of tournaments that Teams and other organizers hold throughout the FIRST Tech
Challenge season and off-season. The tournament types are listed in the following section.

6.1 Scrimmage
A scrimmage is an unofficial FIRST Tech Challenge Event where Teams do not advance. Teams compete at a
scrimmage solely to prepare for an official tournament. Anyone can host a scrimmage to prepare for an official
tournament. Teams hosting a scrimmage are encouraged to notify their local Affiliate Partner that such a
tournament is taking place. Teams that choose to create and host a local tournament are responsible for
finding a location, organizing the format for the day, and inviting other Teams to participate. Teams may also
have to secure the field elements, computers, and other items.

6.2 Meets and League Play
A League Meet is a one-field competition that uses the same field and game as other tournaments. Teams
may take part in as few or as many League Meets as they choose, but competing in more improves a Teams
League ranking. Some of the standard tournament guidelines may be adapted for those regions that
participate in the League format. Teams should contact their Affiliate Partner for more information about the
scheduling, structure, advancement, and processes that are unique to the League/Meet in their region.

6.3 Qualifying Tournaments and League Tournaments
Hosted and managed by FIRST Tech Challenge Affiliate Partners or Affiliate Partner-appointed hosts.
Qualifying tournaments follow the judging, game guidelines, and format outlined in sections 5.4 and 10.0 of the
Game Manual Part 1. Qualifying Tournaments are usually held before Championship Tournaments in regions
where there are many Teams. The number of Teams advancing to the State Championship Tournament
depends on the capacity of the State Championship Tournament, the number of Qualifying Tournaments, and
the number of Teams attending the Qualifying Tournament. The Advancement Criteria for moving up to the
next level of tournament is detailed in section 7.0.

6.4 Super-Qualifying Tournaments
These tournaments are held in regions with a large number of Teams and/or Leagues. In these regions,
Teams advance from either a League Championship or Qualifying Tournament to a Super-Qualifying
Tournament, and then to the regional or State Championship. Super-Qualifying Tournaments adhere to FIRST
standards in format, judging, and awards.

6.5 Championship Tournaments
Hosted and managed by a FIRST Tech Challenge Affiliate Partner, Championship Tournaments abide by
certain standards in format, judging, awards, and overall quality. Some Championship Tournaments require
that Teams advance from a Qualifying Tournament or League Tournament to advance to the State/Regional
Championship. Championship Tournaments may include Teams from a geographic region, province, state,
country, or several countries. Teams should expect a higher level of competition, both on the field and in the
judging room at Championship Tournaments.

7.0 Eligibility and Advancement Criteria
7.1 Eligibility to Compete in Official FIRST Tech Challenge Tournaments:
To compete in an official FIRST Tech Challenge tournament at any level, a Team must be registered and in
good standing with FIRST.

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✓ The Team has completed the registration process.
✓ The Team registration fee is paid. *For North America Teams. Teams outside North America should
consult the Affiliate Partner for their region.
✓ In North America, two adults must pass the Youth Protection screening process.

7.2 Eligibility for Judged Awards
Teams are eligible to be considered for all Judged Awards (except the Inspire Award, please see Inspire
section for details) at any of the first three tournaments they participate in at each of the following levels.
Teams may compete at each level in any region that will accept them. Affiliate Partners have the authority to
decide if their tournament is open to Teams from other regions, or only for Teams within their region.
•
•
•
•

League Tournament
Qualifying Tournament
Super Qualifying Tournament
Championship Tournament

7.2.1 Inspire Award Eligibility
Teams that have won the Inspire Award at another event of the same level, regardless of the region, cannot be
considered for the Inspire Award or as an Inspire Award Finalist at additional tournaments at that level.
All Teams are eligible to be considered for all Judged Awards at a World Championship Tournament.

7.3 Eligibility for Advancement
Teams are eligible for advancement at any one of the first three tournaments they participate in at any of the
following levels, regardless of the region. This applies to both Teams in North America, and Teams outside
of North America:
•
•
•
•

League Tournament
Qualifying Tournament
Super Qualifying Tournament
Championship Tournament

A Team can only earn a spot to one World Championship event per season.
Tournament Type

Advances To

A Team is eligible to advance to the next
competition tier from one of the first three
Qualifying, League, or Super-Qualifying
Tournaments they attend.

Qualifying Tournament

League Tournament

Super-Qualifying
Tournament

Special Considerations

State or Regional
Championship
Tournament

A Team may participate in more than three
Tournaments in the same competition tier,
but they are not eligible for consideration for
advancement or Awards at Tournaments
beyond their third.

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State or Regional
Championship
Tournament

FIRST Tech
Challenge World
Championship

Teams advance from a State or Regional
Championship Tournament to one of the
FIRST Tech Challenge World
Championships.

7.4 Order of Advancement
If the Team listed has already advanced or there is no Team fitting that description (as in 2 nd Team selected at
smaller tournaments), the advancement will continue in order.
1. Optional – Qualifier Host Team (NOTE: Each region’s Affiliate Partner decides if this advancement
opportunity will be offered, and if so, when the host Team must be identified. The Team MUST compete
at one other tournament within the region and must meet the criteria set forth by the Affiliate Partner in
the agreement. This advancement applies to Qualifying Tournament hosts only, and does NOT apply to
host Teams of Meets, League Championships or Championship Tournaments).
2. Inspire Award Winner
3. Winning Alliance Captain
4. Inspire Award 2nd place
5. Winning Alliance, 1st Team selected
6. Inspire Award 3rd place
7. Winning Alliance, 2nd Team selected
8. Think Award Winner
9. Finalist Alliance Captain
10. Connect Award Winner
11. Finalist Alliance, 1st Team selected
12. Rockwell Collins Innovate Award Winner
13. Finalist Alliance, 2nd Team selected
14. Design Award Winner
15. Motivate Award Winner
16. Control Award Winner
17. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
18. Think Award 2nd Place
19. Highest Ranked Team*not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
20. Connect Award 2nd Place
21. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
22. Rockwell Collins Innovate Award 2 nd Place
23. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
24. Design Award 2nd Place
25. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
26. Motivate Award Winner 2nd Place
27. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
28. Control Award Winner 2nd Place
29. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
30. Think Award 3rd Place

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31. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
32. Connect Award 3rd Place
33. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
34. Rockwell Collins Innovate Award 3rd Place
35. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
36. Design Award 3rd Place
37. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
38. Motivate Award 3rd Place
39. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
40. Control Award 3rd Place
41. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
42. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
43. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
44. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
45. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
46. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
47. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
48. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
49. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
50. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
51. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Winning Division.
52. Highest Ranked Team* not previously advanced, from the Finalist Division.
*Refers to Qualification Match ranking. These advancements are in order. There is no normalizing of
rank between divisions.

8.0 The Robot
8.1 Overview
A FIRST Tech Challenge Robot is a remotely operated vehicle designed and built by a registered FIRST Tech
Challenge Team to perform specific tasks when competing in the annual game challenge. This section
provides rules and requirements for the design and construction of a Robot. Teams should be familiar with the
Robot and game rules before beginning Robot design.

8.2 Robot Control System
A FIRST Tech Challenge Robot is controlled by an Android based platform powered by Snapdragon
processors. Teams will use two (2) Android devices to control their Robot and compete in a “Sports Start”
model of competition. One Android device will be mounted directly onto the Robot and act as a Robot
Controller. The other Android device will be connected to a pair of gamepads and will act as the Driver Station.
For more information, tutorials, and to access our Android Technology forum, please visit:
https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/ftc/robot-building-resources
8.2.1 Robot Technology Definitions
Core Device Interface Module – A USB-enabled device that can be used to provide input/output ports for the
Robot Controller. The Core Device Interface Module has 8 digital I/O ports, 8 analog input ports, 2 analog
output ports, 2 PWM output ports and 6 high speed (100kHz) I2C ports.
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Core Motor Controller – A USB-enabled DC motor controller with two (2) motor control channels.
Core Power Distribution Module – The electronic device that connects the Robot Controller Android device to
one or more USB-enabled modules such as the Core Legacy Module, Core Motor Controller, Core Servo
Controller, and the Core Device Interface Module. The Core Power Distribution Module draws power from an
approved 12V battery to power an internal USB Hub, DC motor controllers and servo controllers, and certain
specified electronics.
Core Servo Controller – A USB-enabled servo controller with six (6) servo control channels.
Driver Station – Hardware and software used by a Drive Team to control their Robot during a match. The
Driver Station consists of an Android device, FIRST Tech Challenge supplied Android App, adapter cable(s),
optional non-powered (i.e., does not draw power from a DC power input port) USB Hub, an optional
commercial off the shelf USB external battery connected to the USB Hub to charge the Android device at any
time, and up to two controllers to drive the Robot. Teams may use either of the two models of controller
device(s) in any combination– either the Logitech F310 Gamepad Controllers or the Xbox 360 Controller for
Windows (Part #: 52A-00004). The Driver Station also includes any components used to hold the above listed
legal devices.
Java – The recommended programming language for the Robot Controller.
Logic Level Converter – An electronic device that allows an encoder or sensor that operates using 5V logic
levels to work with the REV Expansion Hub, which operates using 3.3V logic levels. This device may contain a
step-up voltage converter (from 3.3V to 5V) and a dual channel, bidirectional logic level converter. This device
may be used directly with a 5V digital sensor, or with an I2C Sensor Adaptor Cable to a 5V I2C sensor.
I2C Sensor Adapter Cable – An adapter to change the pin orientation of the REV Robotics Logic Level
Converter to match a Modern Robotics compatible I2C sensor.
Mini USB to OTG (On-The-Go) Micro Cable – The connection between the Robot Controller and the Core
Power Distribution Module or REV Expansion Hub.
Modern Robotics Core Control Modules – The Core Motor Controller, the Core Servo Controller, the Core
Power Distribution Module, and the Core Device Interface Module are all considered to be Core Control
Modules.
Modern Robotics Sensors – Sensors designed by Modern Robotics that connect to the Core Device Interface
Module.
Op Mode – An Op Mode (short for "operational mode") is software that is used to customize the behavior of a
competition Robot. The Robot Controller can execute a selected Op Mode to perform certain tasks during a
match.
OTG Micro Adapter – Connects a USB hub to Micro USB OTG (On-The-Go) port on the Driver Station Android
device.
REV Expansion Hub – An integrated electronic device with four (4) DC motor channels, six (6) servo channels,
eight (8) digital I/O channels, four (4) analog input channels, and four (4) independent I 2C buses. The REV
Expansion Hub draws power from an approved 12V battery to power these input/output channels.
REV SPARK Mini Motor Controller - An electronic device that accepts a PWM control signal (from a servo
controller) and supplies 12V power to a DC motor.

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REV Robotics Sensors – Sensors designed by REV Robotics that connect to the REV Expansion Hub.
REV Servo Power Module – An electronic device that boosts the power supplied to 3-wire servos. A REV
Servo Power Module has 6 input servo ports and 6 matching output ports. It draws power from a 12V source
and provides 6V power to each output servo port. A REV Servo Power Module can provide up to 15A of
current across all output servo ports for a total of 90 Watts of power per module.
Robot Controller – An Android device located on the Robot that processes Team written software, reads on
board sensors, and receives commands from the Drive Team by way of the Driver Station. The Robot
Controller sends instructions to the motor and servo controllers to make the Robot move.
USB Mini Type B Cable – These cables are used to connect the USB-enabled modules (Core Legacy, Core
DC Motor Controller, Core Servo Controller and Core Device Interface) to the Core Power Distribution Module.
The cables provide 5V DC power to the modules and send information to/from the modules.
UVC Compatible Camera – A USB Video Class (UVC) Compatible Camera is a digital camera that conforms to
the USB Video Class specification. UVC Compatible Cameras have USB Type A cables and are powered by
the Robot Controller through a non-powered USB hub that is connected to the Robot Controller through an
OTG adapter.

8.3 Robot Rules
Anyone that has attended a FIRST Tech Challenge tournament knows that Teams think outside the kit-of-parts
to create unique and creative Robots. The intent of the Robot construction rules is to create a level playing field
and a framework for Teams to build Robots that safely play the annual game challenge. Teams should read all
the Robot rules before building. Teams can also reference our Legal and Illegal Parts List on our website for
common legal and illegal Robot parts. Some supplier’s websites may claim that a part is FIRST Tech
Challenge approved. The only official references for the legality of parts and materials are the Game Manual
Part 1, the Legal and Illegal Parts List, and the Official Game Q&A Forum.
8.3.1 General Robot Rules
It is the intent of FIRST to encourage creativity in design to the extent that it does not present a safety hazard
or unfairly affect the opportunities of any opposing-Alliance Teams to compete. Although there is significant
creative freedom allowed in the Robot design rules, Teams should consider the adverse effects of any design
decisions that they make. When considering your Robot design and your game strategy, ask yourself the
following questions. If the answer to any of these questions is yes, the design part is not allowed:
•
•
•
•
•

Could it damage or disable another Robot?
Could it damage the Playing Field?
Could it injure a participant or volunteer?
Is there already a rule that prohibits this?
If everybody did this, would the game play be impossible?

 Illegal Parts - The following types of mechanisms and parts are not allowed:
a. Those used in a Robot drive system that could potentially damage the Playing Field and/or Scoring
Elements such as high traction wheels (for example, AM- 2256) and high grip tread (for example,
Rough top).
Black tire marks on an Element is not considered
Playing Field damage. However, digging a hole into
the Playing Field tiles can be considered damage.

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b. Those that could potentially damage or flip other competing Robots.
c. Those that contain hazardous materials such as mercury switches, lead, or lead containing
compounds, or lithium polymer batteries (except for the Android devices’ internal batteries).
d. Those that pose an unnecessary risk of entanglement.
e. Those that contain sharp edges or corners.
f.

Those that contain animal-based materials (because of health and safety concerns).

g. Those that contain liquid or gel materials.
h. Those that contain materials that would cause a delay of game if released (for example, loose ball
bearings, coffee beans, etc.).
i.

Those that are designed to electrically ground the Robot frame to the Playing Field.

j.

Closed gas devices (for example, gas storage vessel, gas spring, compressors, etc.).

k. Hydraulic devices.
 Maximum Starting Size - The maximum size of the Robot for starting a match is 18 inches (45.72
cm) wide by 18 inches (45.72 cm) long by 18 inches (45.72 cm) high. A Robot Sizing Tool will be used as the
official gauge to make sure Robots comply with this rule. To pass inspection a Robot must fit within the sizing
tool while in its match start configuration without exerting force on the sides or top of the sizing tool. Robots
may expand beyond the starting size constraint after the start of the match. The Alliance flag and pre-loaded
game elements may extend outside the starting volume constraint.
The Robot must be self-supporting while in the Robot Sizing tool by either:
a. A mechanical means with the Robot in a power-OFF condition. Any restraints used to maintain starting
size (that is, zip ties, rubber bands, string, etc.) MUST remain attached to the Robot for the entire
match.
b. A Robot Initialization Routine in the Autonomous Op Mode that may pre-position the servo motors, with
the Robot in a power-ON condition, to the desired stationary position.
i.

If the Robot Initialization Routine does move the servos when a program is executed, there
must be an indicator on the Robot of this fact. A warning label placed near the Robot’s main
power switch is required. Attach the image (“WARNING! - Robot moves on Initialization”) to your
Robot near the Robot main power switch if servos are commanded to move during the
initialization routine. To be easily seen by field personnel the label should be at least 1 in x 2.63
in (2.54 cm x 6.68 cm, Avery Label # 5160) and placed on a flat surface (not wrapped around
corners or cylinders).:

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 Robot Controller Mount – It is recommended the Robot Controller be accessible and visible by
competition personnel. If a Team’s Robot Controller is not accessible and/or visible to competition personnel,
the Team may not receive adequate support from the field personnel.
The Robot Controller should be mounted so the display screen is protected from contact with the Playing Field
elements and other Robots. This and other electrical parts (batteries, motor and servo controllers, switches,
sensors, wires, etc.) make poor bumpers and are unlikely to survive the rigors of game play when attached in a
Robot-to-Robot contact area.
Important Note: The Robot Controller contains a built-in wireless radio that communicates with the Android
device in the Driver Station. In addition to protecting the device from impact, the Robot Controller should not be
obscured by metal or other material that could block or absorb the radio signals from the Robot Controller.
 Maximum Robot Weight – Robots must not weigh more than 42 pounds including battery. To
account for variances between scales, there will be a .5 pound (.23kg) overage allowance on top of the 42
pound weight limit. This weight constraint does not include the Alliance Flag or Team Marker. If a Team is
using multiple mechanisms that will be swapped out from one match to the next, all components and the robot
must be weighed together during weight inspection and must not weigh more than 42 pounds.
 Alliance Flag Holder - Robots MUST include a mounting device to securely hold one tournament
supplied FIRST Tech Challenge Robot Alliance Identification Flag throughout an entire match. The flag MUST
be mounted at the TOP of the Robot and be clearly visible throughout the match to clearly identify a Robot’s
Alliance. Flag posts are typically a soda straw or wooden dowel. Dimensions of each are close to 0.25 inches
(0.635 cm) outer diameter x 0.20 inches (0.5 cm) inner diameter x 8.25 inches (21 cm) length with a triangular
flag 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) high x 6.0 inches (15.24 cm) wide. These may vary from tournament to tournament;
Alliance Flag Holders should be able to securely hold both solid core dowels and open core straws. Mounting
devices that damage the flag post are not acceptable.
 Team Number Display - Robots MUST prominently display their Team number (numerals only, for
example “12345”) on two separate signs.
a. The judges, referees, and announcers must be able to easily identify Robots by Team number.
b. Team number must be visible from at least two opposite sides of the Robot (180 degrees apart).
c. The numerals must each be at least 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) high, at least in 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) stroke
width, and in a contrasting color from their background. Teams can use Arial Font, Bold, 250 point to
meet the minimum size requirements.
d. Team numbers must be robust enough to withstand the rigors of match play. Example robust materials
include: 1) self-adhesive numbers (that is, mailbox or vinyl numbers) mounted on polycarbonate sheet,
wood panel, metal plate, etc.; 2) Ink jet or laser printed numbers on paper and laminated.
 Allowed Energy Sources - Energy used by FIRST Tech Challenge Robots, (that is, stored at the
start of a match), shall come only from the following sources:
a. Electrical energy drawn from approved batteries.
b. A change in the position of the Robot center of gravity.
c. Storage achieved by deformation of Robot parts. Teams must be careful when incorporating spring-like
mechanisms or other items to store energy on their Robot by means of part or material deformation.
 Launching Robot Parts - Parts of the Robot itself may not be launched, even if the part launched is
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still connected to the Robot by a tether (for example, wire, rope, or cable).
 Launching Game Scoring Elements – Robots are allowed to launch Scoring Elements through the
air unless limited by a game specific rule. It is expected that Teams will launch the elements with just enough
velocity to score. If the referees feel that a Robot is launching Scoring Elements with excessive velocity that
would cause a safety issue if they were to leave the field, the Robot will be required to be inspected. Robots
must then demonstrate that a launched Game Element cannot travel in the air more than a distance of 16 ft.
(4.88 m) or more than 6 ft. (1.83 m) in elevation.
8.3.2 Robot Mechanical Parts and Materials Rules
 Allowed Materials - Teams may use raw and post-processed materials to build their Robots,
provided they are readily available to the majority of Teams from standard distributors (for example, McMasterCarr, Home Depot, Grainger, AndyMark, TETRIX/PITSCO, MATRIX/Modern Robotics, REV Robotics, etc.).
Examples of allowed raw materials are:
•
•
•
•

Sheet goods
Extruded shapes
Metals, plastics, wood, rubber, etc.
Magnets

Examples of allowed post-processed materials are:
•
•
•
•

Perforated sheet and diamond plate
Injection molded parts
3D printed parts
Cable, string, rope, filament, etc.

Springs of all types: compression, extension, torsion, surgical tubing,
etc.

 Commercial Off The Shelf Parts - Teams may use Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) mechanical
parts that have a single degree of freedom. A single degree of freedom is a system whose motion is defined
just by a single independent co-ordinate (or function)1.
It is the intent of FIRST is to encourage Teams to design their own mechanisms rather than purchasing predesigned and pre-manufactured solutions to achieve the game challenge. Purchased mechanism kits (for
example, grippers) that violate the single degree of freedom rule, either assembled or requiring assembly, are
not allowed. COTS drive chassis (for example, AndyMark TileRunner, REV Robotics Build Kit) are allowed
provided none of the individual parts violate any other rules.

1

See https://www.scribd.com/document/357151975/STRC201-SDOF-JMWB-pdf Accessed on 7/10/2018

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Examples of allowed single degree of freedom parts:
•
•
•
•
•

Linear Slide
Single Sped (non-shifting) gearboxes
Pulley
Lazy Susan
Lead screws

Examples of illegal multiple degrees of freedom parts:
•
•

Gripper assemblies or kits
Ratcheting wrenches

 Holonomic Wheels - Holonomic wheels (omni or mechanum) are allowed.
 Modifying Materials and COTS Parts - Allowed materials and legal COTS parts may be modified
(that is, drilled, cut, painted, etc.), as long as no other rules are violated.
 Allowed Assembly Methods - Welding, brazing, soldering, and fasteners of any type are legal
methods for assembling a Robot.
 Lubricant - Any type of COTS lubricant is allowed, if it doesn’t contaminate the Playing Field, game
elements, other Robots, etc.
8.3.3 Robot Electrical Parts and Materials Rules
There are many possible ways to build and wire a Robot. These rules provide specific requirements on what is
and is not allowed. Teams must ensure that electrical and electronic devices are used consistently with
manufacturer's requirements and specifications. Teams are encouraged to review the FIRST Tech Challenge
Robot Wiring Guide for suggestions on how to build a Robot with safe and reliable wiring.
 Main Power Switch - The Robot Main Power Switch must control all power provided by the Robot
main battery pack. FIRST requires Teams to use either the TETRIX (part # W39129), MATRIX (part # 500030), or REV (REV-31-1387) power switch. This is the safest method for Teams and field personnel to shut
down a Robot.
The Robot main power switch MUST be mounted or positioned to be readily accessible and visible to
competition personnel. A Main Robot Power label must be placed near the Main Power Switch of the Robot.
Attach the image (“POWER BUTTON”) to your Robot near the Main Power Switch. To be easily seen by field
personnel the label should be at least 1 in x 2.63 in (2.54 cm x 6.68 cm, Avery Label # 5160) and placed on a
flat surface (not wrapped around corners or cylinders).
The Robot Main Power Switch should be mounted on
the Robot so it is protected from Robot-to-Robot
contact to avoid inadvertent actuation or damage.

 Battery Mount - Batteries MUST be securely attached (for example, VELCRO, zip tie, rubber band)
to the Robot in a location where they will not make direct contact with other Robots or the Playing Field.
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 Robot Main Battery – All Robot power is provided by a single 12 V Robot main battery.
The only allowed Robot main power battery packs are:
a. TETRIX (W39057, formally 739023) 12 VDC battery pack
b. Modern Robotics/MATRIX (14-0014) 12 VDC battery pack
c. REV Robotics (REV-31-1302) 12 VDC Slim Battery pack
Note: There are similar looking batteries available from
multiple sources but the ONLY legal batteries are those
listed above.
 Fuses - Where present, fuses must not be replaced with fuses of higher rating than originally installed
or according to manufacturer's specifications; fuses may not be shorted out. Fuses must not exceed the rating
of those closer to the battery; if necessary, a fuse may be replaced with a smaller rating. Fuses must be single
use only, self-resetting fuses (breakers) are not allowed.
 Robot Power - Robot power is constrained by the following:
a. Allowed electronic devices may only be powered by power ports on the Core Power Distribution Module
or the REV Expansion Hub except as follows:
i.

The Core Power Distribution Module or REV Expansion Hub is powered by the Robot main
battery.

ii. REV SPARK Mini Motor Controllers are powered by the Robot main battery.
iii. Allowed sensors connected to the Core Device Interface Module and/or the REV Expansion
Hub.
iv. Light sources per .
v. Video cameras per .
b. The Robot Controller Android device must be powered by its own internal battery or by the built-in
charging feature of the REV Expansion Hub; external power is not allowed.
 Android Devices - The following Android devices are allowed:
•

ZTE Speed

•

Motorola Moto G 2nd Generation

•

Motorola Moto G 3rd Generation

•

Motorola Moto G4 Play

•

Motorola Moto G5

•

Motorola Moto E4

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Google Nexus 5

•

Samsung Galaxy S5

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a. No other devices may be used as Robot Controllers or in Driver Stations. See Rule  for the
approved list of Android Operating System versions.
b. Exactly one (1) Android device must be used as the Robot Controller and the USB interface may
only connect to the Core Power Distribution Module, a REV Expansion Hub, or a non-powered USB
hub.
c. The Robot Controller Android device must be powered by its own internal battery or by the built-in
charging feature of the REV Expansion Hub; external power is not allowed.
 Control Module Quantities - Robot control module quantities are constrained as follows:
a. Exactly one (1) Core Power Distribution Module is required for Teams using any Modern Robotics Core
Control Modules.
b. No more than two (2) Core Device Interface Modules are allowed.
c. Any quantity of Core Motor, or Core Servo Controllers are allowed.
d. Any quantity of REV Servo Power Modules is allowed.
e. No more than two (2) REV Expansion Hubs are allowed.
f.

Any quantity of REV SPARK Mini Motor Controllers are allowed.

g. The REV Control Hub is not allowed.
h. The Core Legacy Module is not allowed.
 Motor and Servo Controllers - Motor and Servo Controllers are allowed in the following
configuration.
a. Core Motor Controllers, Core Servo Controllers, REV Expansion Hub, REV Servo Power Module, and
REV SPARK Mini Motor Controllers in any combination.
 DC Motors – A maximum of eight (8) DC motors are allowed. The only allowed motors are:
a. TETRIX 12V DC Motor
b. AndyMark NeveRest series 12V DC Motors
c. Modern Robotics/MATRIX 12V DC Motors
d. REV Robotics HD Hex 12V DC Motor
e. REV Robotics Core Hex 12V DC Motor
No other DC motors are allowed.
 Servos – A maximum of twelve (12) servos are allowed. Any servo that is compatible with the
attached servo controller is allowed. Servos may only be controlled and powered by an allowed Servo


Does not support Wi-Fi Direct channel changing through the Robot Controller app.
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Controller, REV Expansion Hub or REV Servo Power Module (when used with an allowed Servo Controller or
REV Expansion Hub). Servos may be rotary or linear but are limited to 6V or less and must have the three-wire
servo connector.
Teams should be prepared during Robot inspection to show
documentation confirming that the servos individually and together on
the same servo controller do not exceed the manufacturer specifications
for the controller.
The VEX EDR 393 motor is considered a servo and it is subject to the overall total maximum of twelve (12)
servos. Core Servo Controllers may control up to two (2) VEX EDR 393 Motors per module. A VEX Motor
Controller 29 must be used between a servo module and each VEX EDR 393 motor. REV Expansion Hubs
must use a REV Servo Power Module between the REV Expansion Hub and the VEX Motor Controller 29. A
maximum of two (2) VEX EDR 393 Motors may be controlled/powered per REV Servo Power Module.
 Sensors - Sensors are subject to the following constraints:
a. Compatible sensors from any manufacturer may be connected to the Core Device Interface Module or
REV Expansion Hub.
b. Compatible sensors from any manufacturer may be connected to the Logic Level Converter and/or the
I2C Sensor Adapter Cable. Refer to Rule  for details on the use of Logic Level Converter and
the I2C Sensor Adapter Cable.
c. Passive electronics may be used as recommended by sensor manufacturers at the interfaces to the
sensors.
d. Voltage sensors are allowed; except on an output port of a motor or servo controller.
e. Current sensors are allowed; except on an output port of a motor or servo controller.
f.

Simple I2C multiplexers are allowed and they may only be connected to and powered from the I 2C
connections available on the Core Device Interface Module or the REV Expansion Hub.

g. Voltage and/or current sensors are also allowed to connect between the battery pack and the REV
Expansion Hub or Core Power Distribution Module.
 Light Sources - Functional and/or decorative light sources (including LEDs) are allowed with the
following constraints:
a. Focused or directed light sources (for example: lasers and mirrors) are not allowed except for the REV
Robotics 2m Distance sensor (REV-31-1505).
b. Light source control by compatible ports on the REV Expansion Hub and Modern Robotics Core
Control Modules is allowed.
c. Commercial off the Shelf interface modules (without user programmable microprocessors) are allowed
between the light source and the components listed in b.
d. The only approved power sources for lights are as follows:
i.

Internal (as supplied by the Commercial off the Shelf manufacturer) battery pack or battery
holder

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ii. Power ports on the Core Power Distribution Module
iii. Motor-control ports on the Core Motor Controller Module
iv. REV Expansion Hub Motor-control ports, spare XT30 ports, 5V auxiliary power ports, and I2C
sensor ports.
 Video Cameras
a. Self-contained video recording devices (GoPro or similar) are allowed providing they are used only for
non-functional post-match viewing and the wireless capability is turned off. Approved self-contained
video cameras must be powered by an internal (as supplied by the manufacturer) battery.
b. UVC Compatible Cameras are allowed for computer vision-related tasks. UVC Compatible Cameras
should be powered by the Robot Controller through a non-powered USB hub that is connected to the
Robot Controller through an OTG adapter.
 Robot Wiring - Robot wiring is constrained as follows:
a. USB Surge Protectors connected to USB cables are allowed.
b. Ferrite chokes (beads) on wires and cables are allowed.
c. A Mini USB to OTG (On-The-Go) Micro Cable or any combination of a Mini USB cable, a non-powered
USB hub, and an OTG Micro Adapter may be used to connect the Robot Controller Android device to
the Robot electronics. These devices may connect to the Robot electronics in the following ways:
i.

Built-in USB input port of the Core Power Distribution Module, or

ii. Built-in USB input port of the REV Expansion Hub, or
iii. A non-powered USB hub that connects to the built-in USB input port of the REV Expansion Hub.
d. Non-powered USB hubs connected to the Core Power Distribution Module are allowed.
e. Anderson PowerPole, and similar crimp or quick connect style connectors are required to connect
downstream electronics with the Core Power Distribution Module and are recommended for joining
electrical wires throughout the Robot. Power distribution splitters are recommended where appropriate
to reduce wiring congestion. All connectors and distribution splitters should be appropriately insulated.
f.

Installed connectors (such as battery-pack connectors, battery charger connectors, and Core Power
Distribution Module power input connectors) may be replaced with Anderson PowerPole or any
compatible connector.

g. Power and motor control wires must use consistent color coding with different colors used for the
positive (red, white, brown, or black with a stripe) and negative/common (black or blue) wires.
h. Wire and cable management products of any type are permitted (for example, cable ties, cord clips,
sleeving, etc.).
i.

Wire insulation materials of any type are permitted when used to insulate electrical wires or secure
motor control wires to motors (for example, electrical tape, heat shrink, etc.).

j.

Power, motor control, servo, encoder, and sensor wires and their connectors may be extended,
modified, custom made, or COTS subject to the following constraints:
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i.

Power wires are 18 AWG or larger.

ii. Motor control wires as follows:
ii 22 AWG or larger for TETRIX Max 12V DC motors and REV Robotics Core Hex (REV41-1300) 12V DC motors
ii 18 AWG or larger for all other 12V DC motors
iii. PWM (servo) wires are 20 AWG or 22 AWG.
iv. Sensor wires should be the same size or larger than the original wiring.
Teams should be prepared during Robot inspection to show
documentation confirming the wire gauges used; particularly
for multi-conductor cables.
k. Logic Level Converters – Logic Level Converters that are used to connect a REV Expansion Hub to a
5V-compatible I2C sensor or a 5V-compatible digital sensor are allowed. Exactly one Logic Level
Converter per I2C device and one Logic Level Converter per digital sensor are allowed. A Logic Level
Converter should only draw power from the REV Expansion Hub.
l.

Electrically grounding the electronics to the frame of the Robot is not allowed.

 Modifying Electronics - Approved electrical and electronic devices may be modified to make them
more usable; they may not be modified internally or in any way that affects their safety.
Examples of modifications that are allowed:
•
•
•
•

Shortening or extending wires
Replacing or adding connectors on wires
Shortening motor shafts
Replacing gearboxes and/or changing gears

Examples of modifications that are not allowed:
•
•
•
•

Replacing an H-Bridge in a motor controller
Rewinding a motor
Replacing a fuse with a higher value than specified by the manufacturer
Shorting out a fuse

 Driver Station Constraints – Teams provide their own Driver Station and it must comply with the
following constraints:
a. The Driver’s Station must consist only of:
i.

One (1) Android device

ii. One (1) OTG Cable

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iii. No more than one (1) USB hub
iv. No more than two (2) gamepads
v. Any components used to hold the above listed legal devices.
b. The Driver Station Android device USB interface may only connect to either:
i.

A Mini USB to OTG (On-The-Go) cable or combination of cables connected to a non-powered
USB Hub, or

ii. One (1) gamepad and an OTG Micro Adapter.
c. One optional COTS USB external battery connected to the USB Hub to charge the Android device is
allowed.
d. The only allowed gamepads are listed below. They may be used in any combination.
i.

Logitech F310 gamepad (Part# 940-00010)

ii. Xbox 360 Controller for Windows (Part# 52A-00004)
e. The touch display screen of the Driver Station must be accessible and visible by competition personnel.
Important Note: The Driver Station is a wireless device with a built-in wireless radio. During a match, the
Driver Station should not be obscured by metal or other material that could block or absorb the radio signals
from the Driver Station.
 Additional Electronics – Electronic devices that are not specifically addressed in the preceding rules
are not allowed. A partial list of electronics that are not allowed includes: Arduino boards, Raspberry Pi, relays,
and custom circuits.
8.3.4 Robot Software Rules
 Android Device Names - Each Team MUST “name” their Robot Controller with their official FIRST
Tech Challenge Team number and –RC (for example, “12345-RC”). Each Team MUST “name” their Driver
Station with their official Team number and –DS (for example, 12345-DS). Spare Android devices should be
named with the Team number followed by a hyphen then a letter designation beginning with “B” (for example,
“12345-B-RC”, “12345-C-RC”).
 Recommended Programming Language - Java and the Blocks Development Tool are the
recommended programming languages for the FIRST Tech Challenge. The minimum allowed app version
number is 4.0. Programming must be done using one of the following applications:
a. FTC Blocks Development tool – a visual, blocks-based programming tool hosted by the Robot
Controller.
b. Android Studio – a text-based integrated development environment.
c. Java Native Interface (JNI) & Android Native Development Kit (NDK) – Teams can incorporate native
code libraries into their apps using the JNI framework and the Android NDK.
d. FTC OnBot Java Programming tool – a text-based integrated development environment hosted by the
Robot Controller.

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If mandatory updates are announced by FIRST later in the season, Teams must install them before the time of
competition. Additionally, beta versions of the software are allowed at official tournaments.
 Allowed Android Operating Systems - The only allowed operating systems for the Robot Controller
and Driver Station Android devices are:
a. ZTE Speed: 4.4 or higher (Kit Kat)
b. Motorola Moto E4: 7.1 or higher (Nougat)
c. Motorola Moto G 2nd Generation, Motorola Moto G 3 rd Generation, Google Nexus 5, Samsung Galaxy
S5: 6.0 or higher (Marshmallow)
d. Motorola Moto G4 Play: 6.0.1 or higher (Marshmallow)
e. Motorola Moto G5: 7.0 or higher (Nougat)
IMPORTANT: Rules  or  do not require that Teams upgrade to the latest
version of the software. A mandatory upgrade would only be required if FIRST determined
there was a critical software fix that must be adopted by Teams. Mandatory upgrades will be
communicated in the following ways:
•

Via Team Blast – The mandatory upgrade and version number will be communicated
to Teams on the Team Blast, which will also show the date the required upgrade
must be made.
• Online – the minimally required software will be listed on our Technology Resources
page, with the date Teams are required to make the mandatory software upgrade.
• Forum – The minimally required software will be listed in the Technology Forum
page, with the date Teams are required to make the mandatory software upgrade.
Templates for all programming choices are available through the links located at
http://www.firstinspires.org/node/5181.
 Autonomous to Driver-Controlled Transition - Teams that expect to operate their Robot during the
Autonomous period must demonstrate during Field Inspection the Driver Station switches the Robot Controller
between Autonomous mode and Driver-Controlled mode.
 Robot Controller App - The Robot Controller must have a designated “FTC Robot Controller” app
that is the default application for the Core Robot modules (Servo, Motor, and Device Interface) or the REV
Expansion Hub.
 Driver Station App - Teams must install the official “FTC Driver Station” app onto their Driver Station
Android Device and use this app to control their Robot during a match. The Driver Station software version
number must match the version number of the Robot Controller app.
 Android Device Operating System Settings - The Robot Controller and Driver Station must be set
to airplane mode, and Bluetooth must be turned off.
 Wi-Fi Direct Channel Changing App - The Robot Controller must have the FIRST Tech Challenge
“Wi-Fi Direct Channel Changing” App installed (ZTE Speed ONLY).
 Software Modification - Teams are not allowed to modify the FIRST Tech Challenge Driver Station

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application or Robot Controller SDK in any fashion.
 Driver Station Communication - Communication between the Robot and Driver Station is only
allowed via the Robot Controller and Driver Station applications.

Communication between the Robot Controller and the Driver Station is limited to the unmodified
mechanisms provided by the official FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) software, which consists of the official
FTC Software Development Kit (SDK), the FTC Robot Controller app, and the FTC Driver
Station app. Teams are not permitted to stream audio, video or other data using third party software or
modified versions of the FTC software. Teams may only use the unmodified telemetry feature included
with the FTC software to transfer additional data between the Robot Controller and the Driver Station.
Software that is preinstalled by an approved phone’s manufacturer and cannot be disabled is exempt from
this constraint.
During a Match a Team’s Robot Controller and a Team’s Driver Station are not allowed to be connected
wirelessly to any other device besides each other.

8.4 Team Marker Rules
The Team Marker is a new, game specific scoring element that will be used in the ROVER RUCKUS SM
Presented by Qualcomm® game. The Team Marker must pass Inspection before it allowed to be used in a
Match.
 Material Constraints - The Team Marker is subject to the Robot Mechanical Parts and Materials
Rules in section 8.3.2.
 Size Constraints - The maximum size of the Team Marker is 4 inches (10.16 cm) by 4 inches (10.16
cm) by 8 inches (20.32 cm). The minimum size of the Team Marker is 3 inches (7.62 cm) by 3 inches (7.62 cm)
by 4 inches (10.16cm).
 Team Number - Team Markers must be labeled with their Team number (numerals only, for example
“12345”) The letters must be legible when viewed from a distance of 12 inches away. The Team number needs
to appear only once on the Team Marker.
 Illegal Parts - The following types of mechanisms and parts are not allowed:
a. Electronics.
b. Any other part or material that violates Robot construction rules outlined in section 8.3.

9.0 Robot Inspection
9.1 Overview
This section describes Robot Inspection for the FIRST Tech Challenge competition. It also lists the inspection
definitions and inspection rules.

9.2 Description
The FIRST Tech Challenge Robot will be required to pass Robot and Field inspections before being cleared to
compete. These inspections will ensure that all Robot rules and regulations are met. Initial inspections will take
place during Team check-in/practice time. The official “Robot Inspection Checklists” are located in Appendices
B and C.
9.2.1 Team Self-Inspection
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38 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

Teams are highly recommended to conduct a self-inspection of their Robot and submit the completed Robot
Inspection forms to the Robot Inspectors. Teams should go through each checklist at least a week before the
competition to make sure their Robot is made up of legal parts. Teams should bring their self-inspection sheets
to the competition and hand them in to the Robot and Field Inspectors.

9.3 Definitions
Robot Initialization Routine – A set of programming instructions that runs after Init is pressed on the Driver
Station, but before Start for both Driver Controlled and Autonomous periods.”
Robot Sizing Tool – A sturdily constructed device with the interior dimensions: 18 inches (45.72 cm) wide by 18
inches (45.72 cm) long by 18 inches (45.72 cm) high that has one open side with an interior opening size of 18
inches (45.72 cm) wide by 18 inches (45.72 cm) long. The Sizing Tool is used for Robot Inspection as outlined
in section 8.3.1.

9.4 Inspection Rules
 Inspection - Every Robot will be required to pass a full inspection before being cleared to compete. This
inspection ensures that all FIRST Tech Challenge Robot rules and regulations are met. Teams are required to
conduct a self-inspection of their Robot and submit the completed inspection forms at their designated Robot
Inspection appointment.
All Robot configurations must be inspected before being used in competition.
a. If significant changes are made to a Robot after passing initial inspection, it must be re-inspected
before it will be allowed to compete.
b. Referees or inspectors may request the re-inspection of a Robot. The Robot is not allowed to
participate in a match until it passes re-inspection. Refusal to submit to re-inspection will result in Team
disqualification from the tournament.
c. Appendices B and C of this manual contain copies of the Robot and Field Inspection forms and provide
additional information about the inspection process.
d. A Robot may be rejected at inspection if the Lead Inspector considers it unsafe.
 Practice Matches - FIRST Tech Challenge Teams must submit their Robot for inspection before
participating in Practice Matches. At the discretion of the Lead Inspector, the Robot may be allowed to
participate in practice rounds before passing inspection.
 Qualification Matches - The Team’s Robot must pass all inspections before participating in Qualification
Matches. Noncompliance with any Robot design, construction rule, or programming requirements may result in
disqualification of the Team at a FIRST Tech Challenge tournament.
 Re-Inspection – Teams that modify their Robot to improve performance or reliability are required to
request a re-inspection of their Robot by an Inspector.
 Safety - It is the Inspector’s responsibility to evaluate Robots to insure each Robot has been designed to
operate and function safely. Section 8 of this manual, and Game Manual Part 2, section 1.6.1 specify the safety
rules and limits that apply to the design and construction of all Robots.
 Passing Inspection - Robot inspection is a Pass/Fail process. A Robot has passed inspection when ALL
requirements listed on the official FIRST Tech Challenge “Robot and Field Inspection Sheets” have been
successfully met and recorded as passed by an Inspector.

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 All Mechanisms are Inspected - At the time of Inspection, the Robot must be presented with all
mechanisms (including all components of each mechanism), configurations, and decorations that will be used
on the Robot during the competition. It is acceptable for a Robot 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.
a. 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 Robot
rules and inspection criteria.
c. The sum of all electronics (motors, servos, Core modules, Android devices, etc.) used to construct 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 the Robot construction rules.
 Wheel/Tread Playing Field Damage Test - Robot Inspectors have the authority to request that a Team
test their wheels/treads that they feel might cause damage to the Playing Field. Since not every tread or wheel
can be evaluated and posted as a legal or illegal part, the tread test is a quick way to determine if a Team’s
wheels/treads are competition legal.
The Robot Inspector should place the Robot on top of a field tile and against an immovable surface (wall), and
run the wheels at full power for 15 seconds. If there is any physical damage to the floor tile, the wheels will not
be allowed. Discoloration or black marks alone are not considered field damage. The test must be made with
the Robot at the weight it will be at during the competition since this will affect the degree of damage.
 Team Marker Inspection - Team Markers will be inspected prior to the start of the competition, and
concurrently with Robot inspection. A Team Marker must be re-inspected if it is modified after initial inspection.

10.0 Judging & Award Criteria
This section will be released on Kickoff, September 8, 2018.

11.0 FIRST® Tech Challenge Dean’s List
In an effort to recognize the leadership and dedication of FIRST’s most outstanding FIRST Tech Challenge
students, the Kamen family sponsors an Award for selected top students known as the FIRST Dean’s List.
Since its introduction in 2010, the FIRST Dean’s List Award has attracted the attention of prestigious colleges
and universities who desire to recruit FIRST Dean’s List students. Similar to the very prestigious National Merit
Scholarship Award winners, there are three (3) “categories” of FIRST Dean’s List Award students:
1. FIRST Dean’s List Semi-Finalists
o

FIRST Dean’s List Semi-Finalists are the students nominated by each Team to compete for the
FIRST Dean’s List Finalist spots.

2. FIRST Dean’s List Finalists
o

The students selected to be recognized at each State/Regions Championship that are in the
running for the FIRST Dean’s List Winner spots.
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40 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

3. FIRST Dean’s List Winners
o

The group of 10 students who are the final selection for the Dean’s List Award at the FIRST
World Championship.

Each FIRST Tech Challenge Team is invited to select up to two (2) students who are in the 10 th or 11th grade
(sophomores or juniors) as FIRST Dean's List Semi-Finalists. The students who earn FIRST Dean’s List Award
status as a Semi-Finalists, Finalist or Winner, are great examples of student leaders who have led their Teams
and communities to increased awareness for FIRST and its mission. These students have also achieved
personal technical expertise and accomplishment. It is the intention of FIRST that these individuals will
continue, post-award, as great leaders, student alumni, and advocates of FIRST.
Prestigious colleges have expressed great interest in meeting FIRST Dean’s List’s Award winners and FIRST
hopes that each Team will take advantage of the opportunity to nominate the most qualified students as FIRST
Dean’s List Nominees!
For more information on the Dean’s List Award, and to see past FIRST Tech Challenge winners, please visit
our website! http://www.firstinspires.org/Robotics/ftc/deans-list

11.1 Eligibility
Every registered Team in North America can submit up to two (2) students as FIRST Dean’s List Award SemiFinalists.
•
•

Students must be a sophomore (grade 10) or junior (grade 11) to be eligible for this Award.
The Coach or Mentor nominating the student(s) must submit an essay explaining why the student
should receive this Award. The essay must be 4,000 characters or less.

11.2 Criteria
Criteria for selection of the FIRST Dean's List shall include, but not be limited to a student's:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Demonstrated leadership and commitment to the ideals of FIRST;
Interest in and passion for a long term commitment to FIRST and its ideals;
Overall individual contribution to their Team;
Technical expertise and passion;
Entrepreneurship and creativity;
Ability to motivate and lead fellow Team members; and
Ability to effectively increase awareness of FIRST in their school and community.

The Mentor or Coach, who is not related to either of the students chosen as the Team’s Dean’s List Semifinalists, should gather the required information for the student Team member to interview for the FIRST
Dean’s List Semi-Finalist designation at one (1) Qualifying Tournament, League Championship or Interview
Only Event. Applications will require:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Nominee name
Nominee Grade
Nominee GPA
Qualifying Tournament for the Dean’s List Interview to take place
Nomination essay of no more than 4,000 characters
Photo of Semi-Finalist (optional)

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A photograph of the FIRST Dean’s List Semi-Finalist is encouraged, but optional. Coaches can submit up to
three photos of the student, and FIRST encourages at least one of the photos to be a head shot of the student.
The essay submission and such photos may be used, in promotion of the recipient and/or the Award, at the
discretion of FIRST.

11.3 Dean’s List Nominations
There are specific instructions on how to submit Dean’s List Nominations. The Dean’s List Submission Guide
has been created for Coaches and Mentors looking to submit a student for the Dean’s List Award. Please visit
our website for a copy of the Guide, which provides in depth information about the Dean’s List, and step by
step visual aids to complete the nominations.

Gracious Professionalism ® - “Doing your best work while treating others with respect and kindness - It’s what makes FIRST, first.”

42 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

Appendix A – Resources
Game Forum Q&A
http://ftcforum.usfirst.org/forum.php
Anyone may view questions and answers within the FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Q&A forum without a
password. To submit a new question, you must have a unique Q&A System User Name and Password for your
team.
Volunteers that apply for a specific volunteer role will receive an email from FTCTrainingSupport@firstinspires.org
with their username and password to the forum. You will receive access to the forum thread specific to your role.

FIRST Tech Challenge Game Manuals
Part 1 and 2 - https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/ftc/game-and-season-info

FIRST Headquarters Pre-Event Support
Phone: 603-666-3906
Mon – Fri
8:30am – 5:00pm
Email: Firsttechchallenge@firstinspires.org

FIRST Websites
FIRST homepage – www.firstinspires.org
FIRST Tech Challenge Page – For everything FIRST Tech Challenge.
FIRST Tech Challenge Volunteer Resources – To access public Volunteer Manuals.
FIRST Tech Challenge Event Schedule – Find FIRST Tech Challenge events in your area.

FIRST Tech Challenge Social Media
FIRST Tech Challenge Twitter Feed - If you are on Twitter, follow the FIRST Tech Challenge Twitter feed for
news updates.
FIRST Tech Challenge Facebook page - If you are on Facebook, follow the FIRST Tech Challenge page for news
updates.
FIRST Tech Challenge YouTube Channel – Contains training videos, Game animations, news clips, and more.
FIRST Tech Challenge Blog – Weekly articles for the FIRST Tech Challenge community, including Outstanding
Volunteer Recognition!
FIRST Tech Challenge Team Email Blasts – contain the most recent FIRST Tech Challenge news for Teams.

Feedback
We strive to create support materials that are the best they can be. If you have feedback about this manual, please email
firsttechchallenge@firstinspires.org. Thank you!

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Appendix B – Robot Inspection Checklist

Insp.

Team

Team Number: _________

Robot Inspection Status (circle): PASS / FAIL

Robot Size & Weight Inspection
Robot is presented at inspection with all mechanisms (including all components of each
mechanism), configurations, and decorations that will be used on the Robot during the
competition.
Separately test the Robot in all of its unique starting (pre-match setup) configurations. The
Robot fits within the Sizing Tool without exerting undue force on the Sizing Tool sides and top.
Robot Motion Warning Label is attached if servo motors move during the Robot initialization.

✔ ✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Robot weighs no more than 42 pounds (19.05kg). + .5 pound overage allowance
General Robot Rules
Robot does not contain any components that could damage the Playing Field or other Robots.
Robot does not contain materials that are hazardous.
Robot poses no obvious unnecessary risk of entanglement.
Robot does not contain sharp edges or corners.
Robot does not contain animal-based, liquid, or gel materials.
Robot does not contain materials that would cause a delay of game if released.
Robot does not contain elements that electrically ground the Robot frame to the Playing Field.
Robot does not contain closed gas devices.
Robot does not contain hydraulic devices.
Alliance Flag Holder is present and adequately holds the Flag during normal Robot operation.
Team number is visible from at least 2 sides (180 deg. apart). Numerals must be at least 2.5
inches (6.35 cm high), at least in 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) stroke width.
Energy used by the Robot, (i.e., stored at the start of a Match), shall come only from approved
sources.
Robot is not capable of launching its own components.
Robot Mechanical Parts and Materials Rules
All components on the Robot are from allowable raw materials and Commercial Off The Shelf
products.
Robot Electrical Parts and Materials Rules
The Main Power Switch is installed properly, labeled, readily accessible, and visible to
competition personnel. The TETRIX, REV, and MATRIX switches are the only allowed Main
Power Switch.
All batteries are securely attached to the Robot in a location where they will not make direct
contact with other Robots or the Playing Field.
Exactly one (1) Robot Main Battery Pack of an approved type is on the Robot and it is properly
connected to the Main Power Switch and either the Core Power Distribution Module or REV
Expansion Hub.
Where present, fuses must not be replaced with fuses of higher rating than originally installed
or according to manufacturer's specifications.
Allowed electronic devices are powered by power ports on the Core Power Distribution Module
or REV Expansion Hub except as noted in a&b, , and .
The Core Power Distribution Module or REV Expansion Hub is powered by the Robot main
battery. If a hybrid of Modern Robotics modules is used with the REV Expansion Hub, the REV
Expansion Hub must be powered from a power port on the Core Power Distribution Module.

Rule #


a

b(i)

Rule #
a&b
c
d
e
f&g
h
i
j
k




Rule #


Rule #



a(i)

a
a(i)

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44 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

REV SPARK Mini Motor Controllers are powered by the Robot main battery.
Allowed sensors may only receive power from the Core Device Interface Module, and/or the
REV Expansion Hub.
Light sources (including LEDs) are not focused or directed in any way, except for the REV
Robotics 2m Distance Sensor. Light sources are powered by allowed methods.
Video recording devices, if used, are powered by an internal battery and their wireless
communication capability is turned off.
The Robot Controller is powered by its internal battery or by the built-in charging feature of the
REV Expansion Hub.
Exactly one (1) Core Power Distribution Module is mounted on the Robot if any Modern
Robotics Core Control Modules are used.
No more than two (2) REV Expansion Hubs are mounted on the Robot.

a(ii)
a(iii)
a(iv)

a(v)


No more than two (2) Core Device Interface Modules are mounted on the Robot.
Robot contains no more than eight (8) DC motors of the allowed models.

✔ ✔

✔

✔

Robot contains no more than twelve (12) servos. They must be compatible with the attached
REV Expansion Hub, REV Servo Power Module, or servo controller and not exceed the
manufacturer specifications for the controller.
Robot contains only allowed sensors and they are connected only to the REV Expansion Hub
or the Core Device Interface Module.
Power and motor control wires must use consistent color coding with different colors used for
the positive (red, white, brown, or black with a stripe) and Negative/Common (black or blue)
wires.
Power, motor control, servo and encoder wires are the correct size.
Robot does not contain elements that are electrically grounded to the Robot frame.
Approved electrical and electronic devices may be modified to make them more usable; they
may not be modified internally or in any way that affects their safety.
Wheel/Tread Playing Field Damage Test - Optional
Robot did not damage the Playing Field tile. [This is an optional test that is performed only
when an Inspector believes that the drivetrain tread may damage a Playing Field tile.]
Team Marker Inspection
The Team Marker is subject to the Robot Mechanical Parts and Materials Rules in section
8.3.2.
Maximum size of the Team Marker is 4 inches (10.16cm) by 4 inches (10.16cm) by 8 inches
(20.32 cm). Minimum size of the Team Marker is 3 inches (7.62 cm) by 3 inches (7.62 cm) by 4
inches (10.16cm).
Team Markers must be labeled with their Team number (numerals only, for example “12345”).

b
a
e
b



h
k
m


Rule #


Rule #




General Comments or Reason(s) for Failure (if any):

I hereby state that all the above is true, and to the best of my knowledge all Robot construction rules and
regulations of the FIRST® Tech Challenge have been abided by.
______________________________
Robot Inspector

______________________________
Team Student Representative

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Appendix C – Field Inspection Checklist
Team Number:

✔

______

Field Inspection Status (circle): PASS / FAIL

Drive Team Members Present
Coach
Driver 1 (required); Driver 2 (optional)

✔

Driver Station and Robot Controller Hardware Rules

Rule #



Rule #

Driver Station consists only of one Android device (Circle): ZTE Speed, Motorola Moto G 2nd

Generation, Motorola Moto G 3rd Generation, Motorola Moto G4 Play, Motorola Moto G5,
a
Motorola Moto E4, Google Nexus 5, or Samsung Galaxy S5.
Robot Controller consists only of one Android device (Circle): ZTE Speed, Motorola Moto G 2nd
Generation, Motorola Moto G 3rd Generation, Motorola Moto G4 Play, Motorola Moto G5,
Motorola Moto E4, Google Nexus 5, or Samsung Galaxy S5. The Android device’s USB interface

only connects to the Core Power Distribution Module, a REV Expansion Hub, or a non-powered
USB hub.
Driver Station Android device USB interface is only connected to either a Mini USB to OTG cable
a&b
or combination of cables connected to one non-powered USB Hub, or one gamepad.
No more than one (1) optional Commercial Off The Shelf USB external battery connected to the
c
USB hub is allowed.
The Driver Station consists of no more than two of the allowed gamepads (Logitech F310 or Xbox
a&d
360 in any combination).
The touch display screen of the Driver Station must be accessible and visible to field personnel.
e

DS RC Driver Station (DS) and Robot Controller (RC) Software Rules
Android operating system satisfies the requirements: ZTE Speed – version 4.4 or higher,
Motorola Moto G4 Play 6.0.1 or higher, Motorola Moto G5 7.0 or higher, Motorola Moto E4 7.1 or
higher, all other allowed Android devices – version 6.0 or higher.
The Android device is set to airplane mode, and Bluetooth is turned off.
Robot is not connected to any local networks.
Android device is named with the official team number followed by –DS or –RC as appropriate.
Android Wi-Fi Direct device name does not include a newline character in the name.
All remembered Wi-Fi Direct Groups and Wi-Fi connections have been removed.
DS and RC apps are version 4.0 or higher and the DS and RC apps have the same version
numbers.
Communication between the Robot and Driver Station is only through the RC and DS
applications. Out of band communication is not allowed.
NA Driver Station uses the official FTC Driver Station app to control the Robot.
The FTC controller app is the default application, the application launches, and no other
NA
messages pop up.
The FTC Wi-Fi Direct Channel Changing App is installed on the Robot Controller (for ZTE Speed
NA
devices only).
Robot Controller is set to the correct Wi-Fi Direct channel (ZTE Speed, Motorola Moto G 2nd
NA
Generation, Motorola Moto G 3rd Generation, Motorola Moto G5, Motorola Moto G4 Play, and
Motorola Moto E4 only).

✔

Robot Operation Verified at the Playing Field
Robot Controller connects with the Driver Station.
Robot switches between autonomous and driver controlled operation correctly.
Robot starts and stops when commanded by the Driver Station.
The Stop Button, when pressed on the Driver Station, functions and stops the robot.
The team understands how to disable their Robot, if instructed to do so by a Referee.

Rule #











Rule #


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46 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

✔

Queuing Process Information Provided at the Playing Field

Rule #

Team understands that software changes are not allowed in the Queue Area.
Team understands that the match schedule is only an estimate. Matches may start prior to or
after the scheduled time. It is the team’s responsibility to monitor schedule changes and show up
when required.
Team knows where to receive alliance flags and where to return them after the match.

General Comments or Reason(s) for Failure (if any):

I hereby state that all the above is true, and to the best of my knowledge all software, Driver Station and Robot
Controller rules of the FIRST® Tech Challenge have been abided by.

________________________

________________________

Field Inspector

Team Student Representative

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Appendix D – Control Award Content Sheet & Instructions
To be considered for the Control Award, Teams must submit a Control Award Submission Form. On this form,
Teams identify and summarize the key control elements that make their Robot unique. Included is a
description of key observable actions for Judges to look for as well as the sensor and algorithm use that make
it all possible. Judges will use this form for both evaluating control designs and when observing Robots on the
competition field. Information on this form will typically fit on one page, with an additional page for each
autonomous mode described. Optionally, additional summary pages may be added at the end to help the
judges understand key developmental activity.
Autonomous Objectives
List the overall actions that the Robot is capable of completing. These should include scoring actions as well
as other positioning and defensive operations. The Robot does not have to do accomplish all these in every
program, but should be demonstrable in at least one autonomous program.
Sensors Used
List the sensors used to control the Robot and a brief description of how they are used.
Key Algorithms
List the key algorithms that make your Robot unique or are vital to its success on the field. Particularly complex
or unique algorithms or those that integrate the use of multiple sensors are good candidates to highlight here.
Driver Controlled Enhancements
List any advanced control elements that are used during the driver controlled period to enhance performance.
These may include signaling operations when a certain condition is detected on the field, auto-complete
functions, fail-safe algorithms, or just any enhancements that make the control of the Robot easier or more
efficient for the driver.
Engineering Notebook References
Judges also use the Teams Engineering Notebook to evaluate details of the Control elements. To help guide
this effort, Teams should provide pointers to where in the Engineering Notebook control related information is
located.
Some things to consider including as pointers are: Team goals for control activities, strategies for autonomous
mode, Robot performance with and without added sensors, requirements for successful autonomous
operation, performance improvements using algorithms and sensors, and testing results.
Autonomous Program Diagrams
For autonomous operations, Teams should draw and label a typical path the Robot takes. The labeled points
identify key observable actions the Robot makes. For each labeled point, a brief description of what is taking
place should be noted (see example below). Especially describe those key operations where adjustments are
made to ensure accurate and repeatable performance.
For Teams with multiple autonomous programs, it is not necessary to document every program on a separate
sheet. It is sufficient document the most commonly used or complex programs and note variances for the rest.
Additional Summary Information (optional)
For those Teams that have developed many different control features, they may want to provide additional
information to assist the judges in understanding their work. This is a place where Teams can provide more
detailed information about their designs. It should be organized such that separate topics are easily identified
and can be quickly found.

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48 | FIRST® Tech Challenge Game Manual Part 1

Appendix E – Control Award Submission Form
Will be released at Kickoff, 9/8/2018

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