VEX-Robotics: Battle Bots is an advanced robotics and coding camp designed for teens that challenges campers to design, build, program, and compete using both LEGO SPIKE and VEX IQ systems. Engineering & Hardware: Campers work in teams to construct complex robots, starting with a LEGO SPIKE Advanced Driving Base equipped with motorized tools like dozer blades and lift arms, before building the VEX IQ Hero Bot, "Huey," and testing physical upgrades like omnidirectional and balloon tires. Advanced Coding & Python: Participants hone their programming skills in VEXcode VR, transitioning from block-based coding to text-based Python using Switch Blocks, and write custom scripts to automate their robot's movements and save time during challenges. Driving Mechanics: Campers master physical robot handling by testing different controller configurations (such as Tank Drive and Split Arcade) to precisely maneuver their bots and operate mechanical claws to pick up and transport objects. Competition & Strategy: The week culminates in the fast-paced "Mix and Match" tournament, where teams apply their engineering and programming strategies in 90-second rounds to score maximum points by building and placing color-coded pin and beam stacks into field goals.
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