The Misc. Competitions
Object: You're a hobbyist, artist, engineer or frustrated tinker. You
had an idea for a machine so you built it by hand. It works but you've had
no forum for display and comparison. You'd like to attend the BEAM games
but you're worried that your device doesn't fit any category.
Don't worry.
Contents of this page:
- Misc. Competitor Design Parameters
- The Competition
Misc. Competitor Design Parameters
- All robotic devices must be either entirely custom built or a heavily
modified appliance or toy. No commercial, store bought or kit robots will
be allowed without heavy physical modification (modified or improved software
is not considered sufficient modification). "Heavy" defined as
permanent structural and electronic additions that extend, replace, or
enhance a functional aspect of a device (i.e.: replace batteries with solar
engine, add functional robot arms, interface a unique touch/vision system,
etc.). Any devices made from commercial construction kits (i.e.: Lego,
Mecanno, etc.) must also feature obviously non-commercial, custom elements
to indicate sufficient intent of innovation. Nonetheless, devices which
are completely hand-crafted will receive bonus points in all competitions.
- All robotic entries should be self-contained or have an option where
they can execute behavior without human intervention. Tele-operated mechanisms
are allowed only if it is obvious they have been designed around some BEAM
competition guidelines, or are for some autonomous task-oriented purpose
(i.e.: tele-operated moon rover with retrieval claw). Commercial radio
controlled kit models will not be allowed unless they have undergone severe
technical modifications as per the above. Devices which do not feature
some autonomous ability are allowed, but will loose critical style points.
- Any robotic entry may be disqualified if too large (i.e.: bigger than
a standard upright refrigerator). The sole reason for this is that display
space, access doors, and power are limited. Exceptions may be granted for
exceptional, famous, or self-powered entries that can be piece-wise assembled.
Please contact the organizers for a ruling.
- Any robotic competitor that is obviously of mass-produced, commercial
manufacture and/or performs an obviously commercial task shall be disqualified
as a competitor. We don't want this to be a blatant advertising opportunity
for major corporations, that's what trade shows are for. Corporate research
and design prototypes are the exception but they must be represented by
their designer(s) at the competition, not by the corporation. However,
robotics companies are encouraged to hand out cards, flyers, posters, samples,
and device specifications as they wish.
- If a robotic entry must use wall current, it can use only one plug
at a nominal amperage (120 VAC, 3 Amps maximum drain). Any robot that uses
a combustion process will be discouraged for safety reasons, and will not
be allowed to run inside the competition auditorium.
- BEAM competitions are designed to display robotic capabilities and
skill, not brute force, so for the most part, no "violent" robotic
competitors will be allowed. That is, no competitor may have a functionally
destructive capacity (i.e.: drills, cutters, soldering iron, flame-thrower,
chainsaw, etc.) although decorative or whimsical elements along this line
are allowed (i.e.: water pistols, xenon flashes, etc.). Likewise, any robotic
competitor that may damage the competition courses, other robot competitors,
organizers, or audience will be disqualified if the destructive elements
cannot be detached. Robotic competitors may interfere with each other during
the course of simultaneous runs (where rules permit) so long as they do
not violate the "no damage" rule. Anybody who justly feels his/her
device could be damaged by another entrant will not suffer penalties for
not competing in that trial, and where possible, time trial races will
be run separately. Likewise, designers who accept that their machines could
suffer major damage will also be respected (i.e.: No-holds-barred Robosumo).
BEAM Robotics and affiliates take no responsibility for damage incurred
by or afflicted on robotic devices, persons, or reputations during the
course of competition.
- No robotic competitors can employ biological components (rats, chickens,
lemon/potato batteries, etc.) except by special permission from the organizers.
Even then, no devices will be allowed which harm biologics in any way.
Likewise no robot can employ open caustic/explosive chemical substances
in fluid, solid, or gas form.
- Multitalented robotic competitors are encouraged, however such capabilities
must be declared ahead of time on the registration form as part of the
robot's behavior description. It is the owners responsibility to see that
any multitalented entry can make it to all the relevant competition events
at the Games.
- Partially finished robotic competitors are allowed (even encouraged)
to compete so long as there is some function they can exhibit to show what
they may eventually be capable of. Indeed, the show is structured so that
competitors should have plenty of time and help to advance their designs
prior to competition time. As an idea center, if you have only a half-finished,
twitching semi-bot, the Games have proven to be a great growth medium.
Again, if you are in doubt as to the validity of your entry, please contact
the organizers directly. Exceptions will be made for particularly imaginative
entries.
The Competition
Judging will be based upon individual interviews and demonstrations with
the designer and the displayed, functional robot device. Judges will be
chosen based upon their experience and expertise in a field associated with
a particular class of machine (where possible).
Return to the International BEAM Robot Games Rules