2013 MINDS-i Robotics Challenge: Mineshaft Search & Rescue

The MINDS-i competition program is designed to develop skills in problem solving, mechanical engineering, electronics engineering and programming. Kids and instructors participated to find new levels of passion and enthusiasm for robotics and technology based careers.

Student teams solved various applied learning challenges and competed in a number of hands-on robotics categories.

Challenge #1: Approaching the Mineshaft Opening
Teams navigate the corridor leading up to the mineshaft opening autonomously (hands-free).

Challenge #2: Entering the Mineshaft
Teams use an array of IR lights along the ceiling of the mineshaft to autonomously navigate (hands-free) the first portion of the mineshaft.

Challenge #3: Gaining Access to Trapped Mineshaft Worker
Teams carefully dismantle the brick-wall trapping the worker; using a robotic arm of their own design.

Challenge #4: Acquiring the Mineshaft Worker
Teams acquire the worker.

Challenge #5: Rescuing Mineshaft Worker
Teams navigate through a series of treacherous pathways containing various obstacles, while keeping their mineshaft worker safe.

The kits are all made out of the same basic pieces, with helpful step by step instructions. The MINDS-i platform consists of simple beams and connectors that lock together to make a durable chassis.

What can you build?