Robofest is an autonomous robotics competition for 4th - 12th graders.[1][2][3][4] It is similar to FIRST Lego League (FLL), but while FLL limits the student's robots to Lego Mindstorms robots, Robofest allows the student to use any robotics system, parts, materials, or even custom electronics, in some of the events. Note that FLL students are required to use parts manufactured by Lego only, preventing the use of such aids as string or glue. Another important difference is that Robofest games have UTF (Unknown Tasks and Factors) components. Students must solve the unveiled tasks and factors within 30 minutes work-time without external help. Lawrence Tech's Robofest was founded by Computer Science Professor Dr. Chan-Jin Chung (or popularly known as CJ Chung) in 1999–2000 academic year[5] and is sponsored by Lawrence Technological University and other sponsors.[6] LTU's Robofest is also held internationally, in countries including Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, England, France, Ghana, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Kenya, Lebanon, Macau, Malawi, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Jordan, and UAE.[7] Teams who win their regional event are welcome to participate at the worldwide tournament held at Lawrence Technological University in Michigan. ROBOFEST is a registered trademark[8] of Lawrence Technological University. Robofest is one of the largest University led robotics competitions in the world for pre college students.
Grants are available from the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) robotics competition program, funded through section 99h of the State School Aid Act for LTU Robofest teams in Michigan.
- ^ "Robofest - Home". www.robofest.net.
- ^ MacLennan, Jamie (Jan–Feb 2010). "Robofest 2009 - Motivating young minds to master the machine" (PDF). Robot Magazine: 80–83.
- ^ Coscarelli, Rick (Sep–Oct 2015). "16th Annual Robofest World Championship" (PDF). Robot Magazine: 28–31.
- ^ Reindl, JC (2017-05-17). "Robofest at Lawrence Tech draws school-age engineers and their self-driving machines". Detroit Free Press. Retrieved June 17, 2020.
- ^ Bill King (Feb 16, 2000). Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan backs Lawrence Tech Robofest; University trains teachers in robots LTU Tech News, page 1 and 8
- ^ "Robofest - Sponsor History". www.robofest.net.
- ^ "International Site Directors". LTU Robofest. Retrieved June 17, 2020.
- ^ Trademark No. 4382969, United States Patent and Trademark Office