Archery

Archery challenges teams to build an autonomous robot bow, powered by a rubber band, that fires a lightweight, blunt-tipped arrow at a ten-ring target.

The target is shot from four distances — 40, 80, 120 and 160 cm. The robot must adjust its own aim height for each distance; adjusting by hand scores zero at that distance.

• Build an autonomous, vertically held robot bow with a start/stop button.
• Program automatic aim adjustment for four distances.
• Score as many ring points as possible in a single attempt.

• Projectile physics, angles and calibration
• Mechanical design and repeatable launch systems
• Programming motors and sensors
• Methodical testing and data recording

• Teams of 2 to 3 members. Individual entries are not accepted.
• Each team names one Technician — the only team member allowed in the waiting and competition area. The Technician may change between attempts or matches.
• Every team member must be at least 10 years old.
• Each team needs a coach aged 20 or over. A coach must bring one assistant for every three teams they register.
• One robot per team. Robots may not be swapped during the competition or shared between teams.

• Autonomous robot: it fires by itself five seconds after the start button is pressed and adjusts its own aim height.
• The bow must be held vertically like an archer's bow, not horizontally like a crossbow.
• Maximum 25 × 25 cm footprint and 800 g. Robot plus fully drawn arrow no longer than 30 cm in the shooting direction.
• Up to 1 controller, 4 motors and 4 sensors.
• Rubber bands up to 4 mm wide.
• Arrow made by the team, under 30 g, with a rounded, non-sharp tip.

• Safety glasses and protective equipment are mandatory — teams without them are disqualified.
• Arrows must have rounded, non-sharp tips.
• The Technician steps back during the five-second start delay.
• No remote control, wireless links, pneumatics or parts that could cause harm.