The VEX Over Under Game Manual is the official guide for the 2023-2024 VEX Robotics Competition‚ detailing rules‚ scoring‚ and field setup. Updated periodically‚ it ensures fair play and clarity for teams‚ providing essential information for robot design and competition strategy.
Overview of the VEX Robotics Competition
VEX Robotics Competition is a global event where students design‚ build‚ and operate robots to compete in a game-based engineering challenge. Focused on teamwork‚ innovation‚ and problem-solving‚ it fosters STEM skills. Teams from diverse backgrounds participate‚ adhering to rules outlined in the game manual. Matches involve alliances of two teams working together to score points. The competition emphasizes strategy‚ robot performance‚ and sportsmanship‚ preparing students for future careers in technology and engineering. It is a premier platform for youth to showcase creativity and technical expertise.
Importance of the Game Manual for Teams
The game manual is a critical resource for VEX Robotics teams‚ providing detailed rules‚ scoring systems‚ and field configurations. It ensures compliance with competition standards‚ preventing rule violations. Teams rely on it for designing robots‚ strategizing‚ and preparing for matches. Regular updates highlight changes‚ maintaining fairness and clarity. The manual serves as a reference for understanding game objectives‚ robot specifications‚ and tournament procedures. Its thoroughness allows teams to optimize performance and make informed decisions throughout the competition season. Adherence to the manual is essential for success and competitive integrity.
Game Objectives and Scoring System
The VEX Over Under game objectives focus on scoring points by placing Triballs in Goals and achieving elevation bonuses. Teams earn points through strategic placement and robot performance during matches.
How to Score Points with Triballs and Goals
Teams score points by strategically placing Triballs into High‚ Mid‚ and Low Goals. High Goals‚ located at elevated positions‚ award the most points‚ while Mid and Low Goals offer fewer. The color of the Triballs corresponds to the Alliance‚ with red for Red Alliance and blue for Blue Alliance. Proper placement and timing are critical‚ as scoring in higher goals requires precise robot mechanisms. Points are tallied at the end of the match‚ with bonuses awarded for elevation achievements‚ encouraging teams to focus on both accuracy and robot performance throughout the game.
Elevation Bonus at the End of the Match
The Elevation Bonus is awarded at the match’s conclusion‚ rewarding robots for their vertical positioning. Robots parked on the Low Platform earn 5 points‚ while those elevated to the Mid or High Platforms receive 10 and 15 points respectively. Additional bonuses are granted if an Alliance has robots on multiple elevations. This system incentivizes strategic teamwork and advanced robot designs capable of achieving higher elevations‚ adding a layer of complexity and excitement to the final scoring assessment.
Field Setup and Configuration
The VEX Over Under field is a 12×12 square configuration with specific zones and components designed for strategic gameplay and scoring opportunities.
12×12 Square Field Layout
The VEX Over Under field is a 12×12 square layout‚ symmetrically divided into zones for scoring and gameplay. Key components include alliance stations‚ goal zones‚ and elevated platforms. The field’s design promotes strategic positioning and movement‚ with specific areas designated for Triball scoring and robot elevation. Teams must understand the layout to maximize scoring opportunities and navigate effectively during matches. The 12×12 configuration ensures a balanced and competitive environment for all participants. Proper setup adheres to the manual’s specifications for fair play and optimal engagement.
Key Components of the Field
The field features alliance stations‚ goal zones‚ and elevated platforms. Alliance stations are designated areas for robots to start and operate from‚ while goal zones are specific regions where Triballs can be scored for points. Elevated platforms add complexity‚ requiring robots to navigate and climb to achieve elevation bonuses. Field boundaries and obstacles are clearly marked to ensure safe and structured gameplay. These components work together to create a dynamic and challenging environment‚ promoting strategic gameplay and innovation among teams. Understanding each element is crucial for effective competition.
Robot Rules and Specifications
The manual outlines design and building requirements‚ ensuring robots meet size and weight restrictions. These specifications ensure safety‚ fairness‚ and compatibility with the game environment.
Design and Building Requirements
The VEX Over Under Game Manual specifies detailed robot design and building requirements. Robots must be constructed using approved materials and components‚ adhering to size constraints and weight limits. The manual outlines prohibited items and safety standards to ensure fair competition and operational safety. Teams must ensure their robots comply with these guidelines to avoid penalties or disqualifications. These requirements promote innovation while maintaining a level playing field for all participants.
Weight and Size Restrictions
Robots must adhere to specific weight and size limits outlined in the VEX Over Under Game Manual. The maximum weight is typically capped at 36 pounds‚ ensuring safety and fair competition. Robots must also fit within an 18x18x18 inch cube before the start of a match. These restrictions promote innovative design while maintaining operational safety. Teams are required to pass a pre-match inspection to verify compliance with these rules‚ ensuring all robots meet the specified standards to avoid disqualification.
Tournament Rules and Conduct
The VEX Over Under Game Manual outlines tournament rules‚ conduct expectations‚ penalties‚ and disqualifications to ensure fair and respectful competition. Teams must adhere strictly to these guidelines.
Match Procedures and Time Limits
Matches are conducted in timed intervals‚ with a total duration of 1 minute and 45 seconds of gameplay. Teams participate in alliances‚ with pre-match setup lasting 15 seconds. The match begins with an autonomous period‚ followed by driver-controlled play. Timing is strictly enforced‚ and delays result in penalties. The endgame procedure includes elevation bonuses‚ with robots required to stop all movements after the timer expires. Teams must follow these procedures precisely to avoid disqualifications and ensure smooth tournament operations as outlined in the manual.
Penalties and Disqualifications
Penalties are imposed for rule violations‚ such as field interference‚ unsportsmanlike conduct‚ or illegal robot modifications. Points may be deducted or awarded to the opposing alliance. Repeated offenses can lead to disqualification‚ resulting in loss of ranking points and potential removal from the tournament. Disqualifications are enforced for severe violations‚ ensuring fair and ethical competition. Teams must adhere to the manual’s guidelines to avoid penalties and maintain eligibility for awards and advancement in the competition;
Game Manual Updates and Revisions
The VEX Over Under Game Manual is updated periodically to improve clarity‚ address issues‚ and ensure fairness. Teams must stay informed through official updates and version history.
Version History and Changes
The VEX Over Under Game Manual has undergone several updates since its release. Version 0.1‚ released on April 29‚ 2023‚ introduced initial game rules. Version 1.0‚ published on June 27‚ 2023‚ expanded details on field setup and scoring. Version 1.1‚ released on July 11‚ 2023‚ clarified robot specifications and penalty rules. Each update ensures clarity and fairness‚ reflecting feedback from teams and the VEX GDC. Teams must refer to the latest version for accurate competition preparation.
How to Stay Updated with the Latest Manual
To stay updated with the latest VEX Over Under Game Manual‚ regularly visit the official VEX Robotics website. The manual is periodically updated‚ with version history detailed in appendices. Teams should monitor the VEX forums and official notifications for release announcements. Ensure to download the most recent PDF from trusted sources to access the latest rules‚ field configurations‚ and scoring details. Staying informed guarantees compliance with current regulations and optimal competition preparation.
Strategies and Tips for Teams
Optimize your robot’s performance and strategically use Triballs to maximize scoring. Coordinate with your alliance‚ manage match time effectively‚ and maintain efficiency during matches for success.
Effective Use of Triballs and Goals
Maximizing Triball scoring is crucial for success. Teams should focus on quickly and accurately scoring Triballs into high and low goals to accumulate points. Collaboration with alliance partners can enhance efficiency‚ while defending against opponents’ scoring attempts adds strategic depth. Elevating robots at the end of the match for bonuses further boosts scores. Understanding the scoring system and field layout is essential for optimizing gameplay and ensuring effective use of Triballs and goals throughout the competition.
Optimizing Robot Performance
Optimizing robot performance involves careful design‚ efficient mechanisms‚ and precise programming. Teams should focus on lightweight yet durable builds‚ adhering to weight and size restrictions. Ensuring smooth operation of intake systems and scoring mechanisms is critical. Regular testing and iterative improvements based on match feedback can significantly enhance performance. Staying updated with the latest manual revisions and adhering to rules ensures compliance and maximizes scoring potential throughout the competition.
Resources and References
- Official VEX Robotics Website ⸺ Access the latest Over Under Game Manual PDF and supplementary materials.
- VEX U Manual ⸺ Detailed guide for university-level competitions and advanced strategies.
- Additional resources and updates are available through the VEX Forum and official VEX social channels.
Where to Find the Official PDF Manual
The official VEX Over Under Game Manual PDF is available on the VEX Robotics website. Navigate to the “Resources” section or directly access it through the competition page. Additionally‚ the manual can be downloaded from the VEX Manual Archive. Ensure you refer to the most recent version‚ as updates are released periodically. Teams can also find supplementary materials and updates on the VEX Forum. Always verify the source for authenticity and stay informed about rule changes.
Additional Materials for Better Understanding
Beyond the PDF manual‚ VEX provides supplementary resources to enhance understanding. Video tutorials on the VEX Robotics YouTube channel explain game rules and strategies. The VEX Forum offers discussions and insights from experienced teams. Additionally‚ example strategies and field diagrams are available on the VEX website. These materials help teams grasp game mechanics‚ scoring‚ and robot design principles effectively‚ ensuring a competitive edge in the Over Under competition.