Grab-O-Tron

Event Overview: Event Name: Grab-o-tron: The Ultimate Test of Robotic Precision and Power. Cluster: MakerSpace Cluster Event Type: Bot Mode: Online Team Size: 4 per team Duration: 9:00 AM – 1:00PM Event Task / Objective: Grab-O-Tron is a robotics challenge designed to test innovation, precision, and control. Participants must design, build, and program a robot capable of grasping and transporting objects within a defined arena. The event consists of 2 progressively challenging rounds, where robots must pick and place objects of varying shapes, positions, and weights (50–100 g) at distances ranging from 2–3 meters. Teams will be evaluated based on accuracy, mechanical design, programming efficiency, object handling, and completion time. Design / Technical Specifications: The robot must fit inside a 40 cm × 40 cm square at all times. Maximum robot weight: 3 kg, including all electronic and mechanical components. The bot must be remote controlled (through controllers, mobile, laptop or any application). Objects will be placed 2–3 meters away from the starting point. Bot must execute: approach → pick → transport → place. If an object is dropped, a penalty will be imposed. Allowed components: Microcontrollers (Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, etc.) Motors (servo/stepper/DC) Any safe gripper (mechanical, magnetic, suction, etc.) Prohibited: Dangerous tools, blades, projectiles, open flames Pre-built commercial robots (DIY and custom builds only) High-voltage components beyond safe limits Robots must operate safely without damaging the arena or surroundings. General Guidelines: Participants must adhere strictly to the event schedule. Teams are responsible for their own tools, laptops, batteries, chargers, and spares. All robots must be designed and built from scratch for this competition. Documentation must include: Problem statement Design approach & materials Logic flow Algorithms used Challenges & solutions Power supply and basic connectivity will be provided by organizers. Any dangerous, unethical, or disruptive behavior will result in disqualification. Team members must remain within designated operational areas. Safety Rules: All equipment must comply with safety regulations. All batteries, wiring, and mechanical systems must be securely mounted. No sharp edges, exposed rotating parts, or unstable assemblies. No hazardous materials, high-voltage systems, or explosive components. Spectators must stay outside marked zones. Only participating teams and volunteers may handle robots inside the arena. Event Rounds / Structure: Round 1 – Dynamic shapes (Qualification) 2 objects of different shapes will be placed in 2 different checkpoints on the track. Duration: 90 min Round 2 – Weighted objects (Finals) 2 objects of different weights will be placed in 2 different checkpoints on the track. Duration: 60 min Final Evaluation Judging, Demo, Results Round 1 – Dynamic Shapes (Qualification): Objective: Test the robot’s ability to handle objects of different shapes. Details: 2 objects of different shapes will be placed at 2 different checkpoints on the track. The robot must pick and place each object into the designated target area under remote control. Objects: Cube (side=4cm, weight ≈ 10g) Sphere (radius=2.5cm, weight ≈ 10g) Evaluation: Successful handling of different shapes, grip adaptability, placement accuracy, and control stability. Round 2 – Weighted Objects (Finals): Objective: Evaluate the robot’s ability to handle objects of varying weights. Details: 2 objects of different weights will be placed at 2 different checkpoints on the track. The robot must safely pick and place the objects without dropping or misplacing them. Objects: Cube (side=4cm, weight ≈ 50g) Cylinder (height=5cm, radius=2.5cm, weight ≈ 100g) Evaluation: Ability to lift varying weights, grip strength control, object safety, and successful placement. Arena Setup: Arena setup will be provided during the event. Submission Guidelines: Final submissions must include: Working prototype/robot demo Technical report or PPT (design, code, components) Source code/circuit diagram On-time physical submission before the designated round Video proof if any round requires validation Judging Criteria: Innovation & Creativity – 25% Technical Implementation – 25% Functionality & Output – 20% Accuracy/Real-World Relevance – 15% Presentation – 15% Scoring Overview: Performance / Accuracy – 50 Technical Design – 25 Safety & Compliance – 15 Innovation / Aesthetics – 10 Total – 100 Penalties & Disqualifications: Late Submission – -10 Points Unsafe Operation – Immediate Disqualification Incomplete or Pre-built Work – -20 Points Violation of Safety Zone – -15 Seconds / -10 Points Misconduct or Unethical Practice – Permanent Ban Awards & Recognition: 1st Prize – ₹15,000 – Winner 2nd Prize – ₹10,000 – 1st Runner-up 3rd Prize – ₹7,000 – 2nd Runner-up Event Team: Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Divyarani.M.S – Professor and Deputy Director, Makerspace Student Event Lead: Sherin – 1st year CSE (cybersecurity) Contact: +91 8660973614 General Instructions: Follow all university and MakerSpace cluster policies. Respect judges, peers, and staff. Any form of plagiarism or code reuse will lead to disqualification. Decisions of the judges are final and binding. Certificates will be awarded to all valid participants. Official Note: This Rule Book serves as the official guideline for all MakerSpace Cluster events under INNOVATEX 4.0, Presidency University. Any updates or clarifications will be communicated officially via the MakerSpace WhatsApp community and notice board.