Teams and Projects

Last year we hosted a robotic sumo wrestling competition for active EDT members. With the help of Arduino microcontrollers, motors, and sensors, team members will get a chance to design a robot that aims to push its rival outside an arena! With no experience necessary to join, this is a perfect opportunity for new engineering students to learn basic programming, CAD design, and electrical knowledge!

The Midwestern Robotics Design Competition (MRDC) took place for many years during the Engineering Open House on the UIUC campus. Teams competed in bracket-style elimination over two days, where matches are 10 minutes each - four robots at a time. Each robot (ground or drone) must complete tasks to gain points, and the team with the highest points at the end of every match moves forward. This robot was designed for rough terrain driving, and the ability to attach new mechanisms each year depending on the upcoming competition. Stella has undergone significant improvements over the years including powertrain ability, structural, and electronics. The team is looking forward to participating in the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition (IGVC) this year and we hope to find equal interest with this new competition!

Team AIR builds/programs drones, and emphasizes autonomy and controls built from open-source platforms. The team has also competed in MRDC, the International Aerial Robotics Competition (IARC), and the Student Unmanned Aerial Competition (SUAS). Every year, the team designs a fully 3D printed frame for mounting several attachments to suit any need that may arise. The team always has plans to continue development on the software side and further improve autonomous functions.

Robobrawl is an annual combat robotics event that takes place each year during the Engineering Open House on the UIUC campus. The event consists of a double elimination tournament over the two days, where each team battles for dominance. The current format consists of 30 pound combat robots fighting in a 16′ x 16′ arena. The event encourages interdisciplinary engineering collaboration in order to challenge all comers in both design and manufacturing skills.