FTC Centerstage Game Manual 2: Your Robot's Guide

FTC Centerstage Game Manual Part 2⁚ A Comprehensive Guide

This manual serves as a comprehensive guide for all FIRST Tech Challenge teams participating in the 2023-2024 season, providing detailed information on the Centerstage game. It outlines game rules, scoring elements, field setup, and match structure, ensuring teams have a thorough understanding of the competition. Teams can use this information to develop strategic plans, build robots, and ultimately succeed in the Centerstage challenge.

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Centerstage, a robotics competition that challenges teams to design, build, and program robots to perform complex tasks. This game manual, specifically Part 2, serves as your comprehensive guide to the intricacies of Centerstage. It delves into the game’s core elements, providing a detailed understanding of rules, scoring, field setup, and match structure. The manual is designed to equip teams with the knowledge necessary to develop innovative strategies, build powerful robots, and excel in this thrilling competition.

The Centerstage game, inspired by the performing arts, presents a unique set of challenges that require teams to think creatively and strategically. Teams will face the challenge of navigating their robots through a dynamic field filled with obstacles and scoring opportunities. The game encourages teamwork, collaboration, and a deep understanding of robotics principles. Through this manual, you’ll gain insights into the game’s nuances, enabling you to strategize effectively and maximize your team’s potential.

This manual is your ultimate companion for navigating the world of Centerstage. It is designed to be user-friendly, providing clear explanations, visuals, and examples to guide you through every aspect of the game. Whether you are a seasoned FTC veteran or a newcomer to the world of robotics, this manual will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed. Get ready to take center stage and unleash your creativity!

Game Overview

Centerstage, the 2023-2024 FTC game, transports teams to the captivating world of performing arts. The game is played on a 12 ft. x 12 ft. field, where two Alliances, Red and Blue, compete head-to-head, each consisting of two robots. The objective is to score points by strategically maneuvering robots to interact with game elements and complete specific tasks. The game is divided into three distinct periods⁚ the Autonomous Period, the Driver-Controlled Period, and the Endgame. The Autonomous Period requires robots to perform pre-programmed actions, while the Driver-Controlled Period allows for human control. The Endgame provides a final opportunity for teams to score points by strategically positioning their robots and utilizing game elements.

Key elements of the game include⁚

Balancing Stones⁚ These circular elements, designed to represent stage props, are used to balance on platforms for points.
Junctions⁚ These structures, representing different sections of the stage, serve as scoring locations for the Balancing Stones.
Beacon⁚ A team-designed and manufactured scoring element, used to cap and claim ownership of the Junctions during the Endgame.
Robot⁚ The cornerstone of the game, designed and built by teams to interact with game elements and score points.

The Centerstage game is a dynamic and engaging competition that encourages teams to think strategically, innovate creatively, and work collaboratively. It offers a unique blend of technical challenges and strategic thinking, allowing teams to showcase their robotics skills and problem-solving abilities.

Game Elements

Centerstage features a variety of game elements that robots interact with to score points. These elements are strategically placed on the field, creating opportunities for robots to demonstrate their capabilities and score points. Here’s a breakdown of the key game elements⁚

Balancing Stones⁚ These circular elements, resembling stage props, are the primary scoring elements in the game. Robots can pick up and place these stones on specific platforms, known as Junctions, to score points. Balancing Stones are designed to be lightweight and easily manipulated by robots, encouraging strategic maneuvering and precision placement.
Junctions⁚ These structures represent different sections of the stage and serve as designated scoring locations for the Balancing Stones. There are four Junctions located on the field⁚ Ground, Low, Middle, and High. The number of Balancing Stones placed on each Junction determines the points awarded. For example, placing a Balancing Stone on the High Junction earns more points than placing one on the Ground Junction.
Beacon⁚ A team-designed and manufactured scoring element used in the Endgame portion of the game. Teams can use their robots to deploy and activate the Beacon, which can then be used to “cap” and claim ownership of a Junction. The Beacon allows teams to gain control of specific scoring zones, adding a strategic layer to the Endgame.
Robot⁚ The heart of the Centerstage competition, designed and built by teams to interact with the game elements and score points. The robot’s design, functionality, and programming play crucial roles in determining the team’s success. Teams have the freedom to design and build robots that best suit their strategic approach, creating a diverse and innovative playing field.

These game elements encourage teams to develop creative solutions, utilize advanced robotics skills, and engage in strategic decision-making. Teams must carefully consider how to design and program their robots to effectively interact with these elements and maximize their scoring potential.

Scoring

The Centerstage game utilizes a point-based scoring system, rewarding teams for effectively manipulating game elements and achieving specific objectives. Points are awarded based on the successful placement of Balancing Stones on Junctions, the activation and deployment of the Beacon, and the strategic positioning of the robot at the end of the match. Here’s a breakdown of the scoring categories⁚

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Balancing Stones⁚ Teams earn points by placing Balancing Stones on the four Junctions (Ground, Low, Middle, and High). The number of Balancing Stones placed on each Junction determines the points awarded. For example, placing three Balancing Stones on the High Junction earns more points than placing three Balancing Stones on the Ground Junction.
Beacon⁚ Teams can gain additional points by using their robots to deploy and activate the Beacon. The Beacon can be used to “cap” and claim ownership of a Junction. The team that successfully activates the Beacon on a Junction gains control of that scoring zone and can earn points for placing Balancing Stones on it;
Endgame⁚ The final portion of the match offers teams the opportunity to earn bonus points by strategically positioning their robots on specific areas of the field. The Endgame encourages teams to design robots that can perform specific tasks, such as balancing on a designated platform or aligning with a particular target. These tasks require precision and careful planning, rewarding teams who have developed robots with advanced functionality.

By strategically placing Balancing Stones, deploying the Beacon, and executing the Endgame tasks, teams can maximize their score and achieve victory. Teams must carefully analyze the scoring system, develop a strategic approach, and design their robots to effectively manipulate the game elements and achieve the highest possible score.

Field Setup

The Centerstage game is played on a 12 ft. x 12 ft. (3.7m x 3.7m) square field, providing ample space for robots to maneuver and interact with game elements. The field is enclosed by walls that are approximately 1 ft. (0.3 m) high, and the floor is covered with a soft foam mat to provide a safe and controlled environment for the robots. The field is divided into two halves, each representing an alliance (red and blue), with a center line separating the two.

The key elements of the Centerstage field include⁚

Junctions⁚ Four Junctions are strategically placed on the field⁚ Ground, Low, Middle, and High. These Junctions serve as the primary scoring zones, where teams can earn points by placing Balancing Stones. Each Junction has a designated area where Balancing Stones can be placed.
Balancing Stones⁚ These cylindrical game elements are used for scoring points. Teams must strategically place Balancing Stones on the Junctions to earn points.
Beacon⁚ This scoring element is located in the center of the field, and its activation can provide teams with additional points.
Endgame Platform⁚ Located in the center of the field, this platform offers teams the opportunity to earn bonus points by strategically positioning their robots during the Endgame phase.

The field setup is designed to encourage strategic gameplay, as teams must carefully navigate their robots around the field, interact with game elements, and strategically place Balancing Stones. Teams must consider the layout of the Junctions, the placement of the Beacon, and the Endgame Platform to develop effective strategies and maximize their scoring potential.

Match Structure

A Centerstage match is a dynamic and fast-paced competition between two Alliances, each consisting of two robots. The match is divided into three distinct periods⁚ the Autonomous Period, the Driver-Controlled Period, and the Endgame. Each period presents unique challenges and opportunities for teams to showcase their robot’s capabilities and strategic prowess.

The Autonomous Period is a crucial 30-second segment where robots operate independently, guided by pre-programmed instructions. Teams must program their robots to perform specific tasks, such as navigating the field, acquiring and placing Balancing Stones, and activating the Beacon, all without any human intervention. This period emphasizes strategic programming and robot autonomy.

Following the Autonomous Period is a brief 8-second transition phase, during which teams can make adjustments to their robots, such as repositioning them or preparing for the Driver-Controlled Period. This short break allows for a quick assessment of the situation and strategic planning for the next phase.

The Driver-Controlled Period is a 2-minute segment where teams have direct control of their robots using game controllers. This period is characterized by intense action, as robots maneuver around the field, interact with game elements, and strategize with their alliance partner. This period emphasizes driver skills, teamwork, and adaptability.

The final phase of the match is the Endgame. This period lasts for a designated amount of time and provides teams with the opportunity to earn bonus points by strategically positioning their robots on the Endgame Platform. Teams must work together to maximize their points during this phase, often requiring complex maneuvers and precise execution.

Autonomous Period

The Autonomous Period is a critical 30-second segment of the Centerstage match where robots operate independently, guided by pre-programmed instructions. This period emphasizes strategic programming and robot autonomy, as teams must carefully plan and execute their robots’ actions without any human intervention. The success of the Autonomous Period can significantly impact a team’s overall score and set the stage for the rest of the match.

During this period, robots can perform a variety of tasks, including navigating the field, acquiring and placing Balancing Stones, activating the Beacon, and preparing for the Driver-Controlled Period. Teams must program their robots to accurately sense their surroundings, make decisions based on sensor data, and execute precise movements. The challenge lies in balancing the complexity of the program with the limited time available for autonomous operation.

Strategic planning is crucial during the Autonomous Period. Teams must consider the best approach to completing tasks, considering the potential actions of their alliance partner and the opposing alliance. They must also account for the placement of game elements, the field layout, and the potential for unexpected events. The ability to anticipate and adapt to changing circumstances is a key factor in maximizing points during the Autonomous Period.

The Autonomous Period is a testament to the ingenuity and programming skills of FTC teams. By effectively utilizing sensors, actuators, and algorithms, teams can create robots that perform complex tasks autonomously, demonstrating their mastery of robotics and programming principles.

Driver-Controlled Period

The Driver-Controlled Period is the heart of the Centerstage match, offering teams a two-minute window to showcase their robot’s capabilities and strategic prowess. During this period, drivers take control of their robots using a gamepad, maneuvering them around the field and executing intricate tasks. The Driver-Controlled Period is a dynamic and exciting phase where teams can leverage their robot’s agility, precision, and responsiveness to secure valuable points.

The primary objective during the Driver-Controlled Period is to maximize scoring opportunities. This involves strategically deploying Balancing Stones, activating the Beacon, and potentially manipulating other game elements. Teams must adapt their strategies based on the current game state, the positions of their alliance partner and opposing alliance, and the remaining time on the clock. Effective communication between driver and operator is essential, ensuring coordinated actions and seamless execution of planned maneuvers.

Successful teams excel in driver skill, robot design, and strategic thinking. Drivers must demonstrate precision control, quick reflexes, and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations. Robots must be robust, reliable, and capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Strategic planning is crucial for optimizing scoring opportunities and gaining an edge over opponents. The Driver-Controlled Period demands a blend of technical expertise, teamwork, and tactical thinking, making it a thrilling and challenging aspect of the Centerstage competition.

Endgame

The Endgame in the Centerstage competition is a crucial final phase that allows teams to rack up additional points and potentially turn the tide of the match. It commences after the Driver-Controlled Period and provides a brief window of opportunity for strategic maneuvers and last-minute scoring. The Endgame is a high-pressure, fast-paced period where teams must execute their strategies flawlessly to maximize their points and secure a victory.

The primary focus of the Endgame is to activate the Beacon and strategically place Balancing Stones. Teams can deploy their robots to activate the Beacon, achieving a significant point boost. Furthermore, they can strategically position Balancing Stones to create a balanced configuration on the field, earning additional points. Teams must carefully consider their robot’s capabilities, the current state of the field, and the remaining time to develop effective Endgame strategies. Coordination with their alliance partner is also essential, ensuring synchronized actions and maximizing the impact of their Endgame maneuvers.

The Endgame is a testament to a team’s strategic planning, robot design, and execution skills. Robots must be agile, capable of precise movements, and equipped to effectively interact with the game elements. Strategic planning is critical for anticipating the Endgame scenario, developing a plan of action, and effectively utilizing the limited time available. The Endgame in Centerstage is a thrilling culmination of the competition, where teams strive for ultimate victory through strategic brilliance and technical prowess.

Penalties

Penalties in the Centerstage competition serve as a mechanism to ensure fair play, uphold the spirit of gracious professionalism, and maintain the integrity of the competition. They are imposed for various rule violations, ranging from minor infractions to major offenses that disrupt the match flow or compromise the safety of participants. Understanding these penalties is crucial for teams to avoid them, maintain good sportsmanship, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all involved. It’s important to note that the official FTC Question & Answer Forum rulings take precedence over all information in the game manuals. Therefore, teams should consult this forum for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding penalties.

Common penalty scenarios include robot interference with opposing alliance robots, exceeding the weight limit, exceeding the size limit, exceeding the time limit, and improper activation of the Beacon. Penalties can result in a deduction of points from the team’s score, a warning, or even disqualification from the match. The severity of the penalty is determined by the nature of the violation and the impact it has on the game. Teams should strive to play by the rules, conduct themselves with sportsmanship, and avoid penalties that could jeopardize their chances of success.

The penalty system is designed to promote fairness and ethical conduct. It ensures that all teams have an equal opportunity to compete based on their skills and strategies, free from unfair advantages gained through rule violations. Teams are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the penalty guidelines and practice good sportsmanship to ensure a positive and competitive environment for all participants.