Fall Programming Challenge

What:

Write a computer program so that a pre-constructed robot performs as many tasks as possible in 90 seconds. Points are awarded for each successful task and need not be completed in any particular order.

Who: Anyone who

Where: Computer Lab


When: Lunch, starting August 29th


Prizes - movie passes, food, candy, friends made, etc.

Register or Just Show Up

email Mrs Kav at lkavanaugh@savcps.com with your name, grade,
reason you are responding or programming experience


FAQ’s for the Programming Challenge

What is Programming?


Meet with Mrs Kavanaugh at lunch every Monday and Wednesday to learn the basics of Interactive C. Learn it yourself at home, too. All programming must be in IC version 5.? and may be written at home or at school. Robot and processor however are available only on campus. All programming instruction will focus on the probes, motors and sensors featured on the pre-constructed robot.


Download IC5 at http://www.botball.org/about_botball/ic4.html


What are "The Tasks"?


Start at light signal from a marked area. (2 points)
Turn off in any location after 90 seconds. (1 point)
Turn off in a specified location after 90 seconds. (4 points)
Travel a set linear distance (to be determined later) (2 points)
Reverse direction upon touching Mrs. Kavanaugh’s Door. (3 points)
Place a sheet of paper in front of Mr. Wetmore’s Door. (5 points)
Beep or play tones upon change of direction. (1 point each up to 5)
Have six changes of direction (greater than 45 degrees) (3 points)
Locate an orange object and signal upon location. (8 points)
Follow a black path on light colored floor for 1 meter (path will be random and the width of electrical tape).(10 points) (partial points may be awarded)

What is the Robot?


The robot will be constructed of Lego’s, driven by two motors and feature a variety of touch, light and camera sensors. The `bot will interface with your program through a modified circuit board that includes a Game Boy called an XBC. No modification may be made to the robot. Your program must be written to work with this robot. The robot will be available for inspection and practice in early September.


When Is the Challenge?


After school one day in early October, to be determined later.


Can I Work With Someone? - or - Do I Have to Work With Someone?


You may work individually or in teams of two. No experience necessary. The purpose of this activity is to learn some programming fundamentals and prepare everyone to participate in the spring Botball competition.


Do I have to come to the programming meetings?


Yes, as much as possible.