Robots-For-All (IEEE - HI)

Line Following

Follow a line from beginning to the end. Participants learn about various sensors detect the line and algorithms to control the motors based upon the sensor input. Practice boards are recommended for algorithm development and testing.

Challenges may be broken up between stock and customized robots that use non-stock sensors. The Freenove 4WD Car uses either IR sensors or a camera to detect the line.

Rules

1. Black line on a white background, example practice board
2. Start the robot at the "T"
3. Time starts when the robot starts moving
4. Robot must remain over the line
5. Robot must follow the entire line
6. Stop after three (3) minutes
7. Stop when the robot reaches the large circle
8. One attempt is allowed per level

Judging

This is a timed event where the shortest time wins and a tie goes to the robot that makes it closest (by path center-line distance) to the large circle.

The robot is eliminated if:

• It does not follow the black line
• It does not remain over the black line
• It does not stop the time limit
• It does not stop when it reaches the large circle on the final try

Competition Levels

There are several line following challenge levels:

1. 1" tape with gental curves and wider line spacing - tape is wider then the IR sensor spacing
2. 3/4" tape with tight curves and narrower line spacing - tape is narrower than the IR sensor spacing
3. 3/4" tape with right angles, intersections and narrow line spacing. The robot must following the line straight through any intersections.

Practice Boards

Practice boards may be made with one or more pieces of foam or trifold boards from an office supply store and using black tape (e.g. 1" black masking tape or 3/4" electrical tape). The links provide suggestions and are not requirements.