ftc game manual

The FTC Game Manual is the official guide for the FIRST Tech Challenge, providing rules, gameplay details, and resources for teams. It ensures a fair and structured competition environment, outlining everything from robot specifications to scoring systems. Teams rely on this manual to understand the game’s objectives, penalties, and requirements for success. It is updated annually to reflect the current season’s theme and gameplay elements, ensuring clarity and consistency for all participants.

1.1 Overview of the FTC Program

The FTC program, part of FIRST, engages students in STEM through robotics competitions. Each season introduces a new game, challenging teams to design, build, and program robots. The program fosters teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving while providing access to scholarships, mentorship, and career opportunities. It emphasizes Gracious Professionalism, encouraging respect and kindness among participants. The program culminates in a global championship, showcasing creativity and technical skills on a grand scale.

1.2 Purpose of the Game Manual

The FTC Game Manual serves as the ultimate guide for teams, detailing rules, gameplay, and requirements for the competition. It ensures fairness and consistency by outlining expectations for robot design, scoring, and penalties. Updated annually, the manual reflects the current season’s theme and gameplay elements. It is divided into two parts for clarity, providing teams with the necessary information to prepare and compete effectively throughout the season.

Key Components of the FTC Game Manual

The FTC Game Manual is structured to cover game rules, robot specifications, scoring systems, and programming tools, ensuring a comprehensive guide for participants.

2.1 Structure and Organization

The FTC Game Manual is divided into two parts, with Part 1 focusing on traditional events and Part 2 providing additional details. The manual is organized into clear sections, including game rules, robot specifications, scoring systems, and programming tools. Each section is logically structured to guide teams through the competition setup, gameplay, and technical requirements. The manual also includes appendices and resources for easy reference, ensuring a comprehensive and accessible format for all participants.

2.2 Key Sections and Topics

The FTC Game Manual covers essential topics such as game overview, definitions, scoring elements, and penalties. It also details robot specifications, programming tools, and competition rules. Additional sections include resources for teams, field setup guides, and faq. These sections provide a comprehensive understanding of the competition, ensuring teams are well-prepared for both technical and strategic aspects of the game. The manual is designed to be user-friendly, with clear explanations and examples.

FTC Game Rules and Regulations

The FTC Game Manual outlines rules and regulations, including penalties for violations, ensuring fair play and adherence to core values like Gracious Professionalism.

3.1 General Gameplay Rules

The FTC Game Manual details general gameplay rules, including robot operations, alliances, and match durations. Teams must adhere to field interactions, scoring timelines, and penalties for rule violations. Matches are divided into autonomous and driver-controlled periods, with specific rules governing each phase. Robots must operate within designated areas, and any interference or unsafe behavior results in penalties. These rules ensure fair competition and align with FTC’s core values of Gracious Professionalism and sportsmanship.

3.2 Penalties and Violations

The FTC Game Manual outlines penalties and violations that may occur during matches, including illegal moves, interference, or unsportsmanlike conduct. Teams incur penalties for rule breaches, which can result in point deductions or disqualification. Violations are enforced by referees, and repeated offenses may lead to more severe consequences. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for maintaining fair play and ensuring adherence to FTC’s competitive standards and values.

Scoring System in FTC Competitions

The FTC Game Manual details the scoring system, outlining how points are allocated for completing specific tasks and achieving game objectives. Points are awarded based on performance during matches, with alliances earning bonus points for collaborative efforts. The system ensures fair competition, with winners determined by total points scored or tiebreaker criteria if needed. This structure rewards both individual and team achievements effectively.

4.1 Point Allocation and Scoring Elements

Points in FTC competitions are allocated based on specific tasks and achievements during matches. Teams earn points for completing autonomous actions, driver-controlled maneuvers, and endgame procedures. Scoring elements include deploying game pieces, climbing, and collaborating with alliances. Bonus points are awarded for achieving specific objectives or penalties deducted for rule violations. The system is designed to reward precision, strategy, and teamwork, ensuring a balanced and fair competition environment for all participants.

4.2 Winning Conditions and Ties

A match is won by the alliance with the highest score at the end of the game. In the event of a tie, teams compete in additional rounds or specific tiebreaker criteria, such as autonomous performance or endgame procedures, are applied. The manual outlines detailed rules for resolving ties to ensure fair and clear determination of the winning alliance, maintaining the integrity of the competition.

Robot Specifications and Build Requirements

The FTC Game Manual outlines robot specifications and build requirements, ensuring compliance with size, weight, and material restrictions. Teams must adhere to these guidelines for competition eligibility and safety.

5.1 Robot Dimensions and Weight Limits

The FTC Game Manual specifies robot dimensions and weight limits to ensure fair competition. Robots must fit within a 18-inch cube and weigh no more than 25 pounds. These constraints promote creative design while maintaining safety and equality among teams. Compliance with these limits is strictly enforced to ensure all participants compete under the same conditions and rules.

5.2 Permitted Materials and Components

The FTC Game Manual outlines permitted materials and components for robot construction, ensuring safety and fairness. Teams can use materials like aluminum, steel, PVC, and approved plastics. Pre-built components, such as motors, servos, and control systems, must comply with specified guidelines. Certain materials, like 3D-printed parts for functional mechanisms, are restricted unless explicitly allowed. The manual ensures all components are accessible and cost-effective, promoting innovation within defined boundaries.

Programming Tools and Software

The FTC Game Manual details programming tools and software, including Java, Kotlin, Python, and FTC Blocks, along with setup guides for the Driver Station App and Android Studio.

6.1 Recommended Programming Languages

The FTC Game Manual recommends using Java, Kotlin, or Python for robot programming due to their compatibility with Android Studio and the FTC SDK. These languages are widely adopted in the FTC community and offer extensive libraries for robotics applications. Java is the most commonly used, while Kotlin provides modern syntax improvements. Python is ideal for teams preferring simpler scripting; Additionally, the FTC Blocks visual programming tool is available for teams new to text-based coding. Teams can choose based on their expertise and preferences to optimize their robot’s performance.

6.2 Driver Station App Setup

The Driver Station App is essential for controlling robots during matches. Teams must install the official FTC Driver Station app on an Android device or REV hardware. Ensure proper configuration by pairing controllers, enabling robot feedback, and testing connections. The app provides real-time data, including robot status, game timers, and joystick inputs. Correct setup ensures seamless communication between drivers and the robot, optimizing performance during competition.

Game Manuals for Past Seasons

Past FTC game manuals are archived on the FIRST website, providing access to previous seasons’ rules and gameplay details. These documents are available in multiple languages and formats, allowing teams to review historical competitions and understand game evolution over time. They remain accessible to support team preparation and knowledge retention.

7.1 Accessing Archived Documentation

Archived FTC game manuals are available on the FIRST website’s Game and Season Materials page, offering past seasons’ rules and gameplay details in various formats like PDF. These documents are accessible in multiple languages, providing historical competition insights. Teams can link to these resources directly from the official site, ensuring compliance with FIRST’s content policies.

7.2 Key Differences Across Seasons

Each FTC season introduces a unique theme, gameplay elements, and rule updates, ensuring the competition remains fresh and challenging. New scoring systems, robot requirements, and field designs are common changes. Terminology and penalties may also evolve to reflect the season’s focus. Teams must adapt to these annual updates to stay competitive, making each season distinct from the previous one in both structure and objectives.

Team Resources and Support

FTC provides extensive resources, including rookie team guidance, educational materials, and access to scholarships. Teams can also connect with mentors and join supportive communities for success.

8.1 Rookie Team Guidance

FTC offers comprehensive support for rookie teams, including curated resources, step-by-step guides, and mentorship opportunities. The program provides a “Start Here” section with essential tools and tips to help newcomers navigate the competition. Rookie teams can access workshops, tutorials, and community forums to build skills and confidence. Additionally, FTC connects rookies with experienced mentors who share insights and best practices for success in the competition.

8.2 Available Scholarships and Opportunities

FTC participants gain access to exclusive scholarships and career opportunities. The program connects students with employers and academic institutions, fostering future opportunities. Scholarships are awarded based on leadership, innovation, and community impact. Additionally, FTC alumni benefit from networking opportunities, mentors, and resources to support their STEM careers. These opportunities are designed to empower students beyond the competition, helping them build a strong foundation for their future endeavors.

Updates and Changes in the Latest Manual

The latest FTC Game Manual introduces new rule changes, terminology updates, and a revised release schedule. Part 1 is released in July, with Part 2 following at kickoff.

9.1 New Rule Changes and Terminology

The latest FTC Game Manual introduces new rule changes and updated terminology to enhance gameplay clarity. Key updates include definitions for “Autonomous Period” and “Driver-Controlled Period,” along with clarified rules on robot interactions and field elements. These changes aim to ensure fair play and consistency across all teams. The manual also outlines adjustments to scoring elements and penalty systems, providing a clear framework for the upcoming season.

9.2 Release Schedule and Format

The FTC Game Manual is released in two parts: an early preview in July and the full version at the season kickoff in September. The manual is available in PDF format on the FIRST website, ensuring accessibility for all teams. This staggered release allows teams to prepare early while finalizing details closer to the competition start. The format includes clear sections, definitions, and updates for easy navigation and understanding;

Accessing the FTC Game Manual

The FTC Game Manual is available on the official FIRST website, ensuring easy access for teams. It is provided in multiple languages and formats, including PDF.

10.1 Official Sources and Links

The FTC Game Manual is available on the FIRST website. Teams can access the official Game Manual, Game Q&A, and playing field resources directly from this page. Additional materials, such as archived documentation and past season manuals, are also provided for reference. The manual is released in multiple formats, including PDF, and is available in several languages to ensure global accessibility.

10.2 Language Availability and Formats

The FTC Game Manual is primarily available in English but is also translated into other languages, such as Russian, to support global participation. It is offered in various formats, including PDF for easy downloading and printing. Additionally, a text-based version is provided for assistive devices, ensuring accessibility for all participants. The manual is released in two parts: an early preview in July and the full version at the season kickoff in September.

Game-Specific Terminology

Explaining key terms like Gracious Professionalism, Field, Scoring Elements, and Queue, this section ensures clarity for participants, helping them understand the game’s unique language and requirements effectively.

11.1 Definitions and Key Terms

This section outlines essential terminology specific to FTC competitions, such as Gracious Professionalism, Autonomous Period, Driver-Controlled Period, Endgame, and Scoring Elements. These definitions ensure a common understanding of the game’s mechanics, rules, and objectives, helping teams navigate the competition effectively. Clear explanations of terms like Queue, Field, and Penalties are also provided to avoid confusion and promote fair play.

The Role of Gracious Professionalism

Gracious Professionalism emphasizes respect, kindness, and teamwork, fostering a positive environment where competitors support each other. It defines FTC’s culture, ensuring fairness and camaraderie while pursuing excellence.

12.1 Core Values in FTC Competitions

Core values in FTC competitions include gracious professionalism, emphasizing respect, kindness, and teamwork; These values promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion, ensuring all teams compete with integrity and support one another. They encourage participants to pursue excellence while fostering a positive and fair environment, making FTC more than just a competition—it’s a community-driven experience focused on mutual growth and learning.

The FTC Game Manual ensures a fair and enjoyable competition, guiding teams with comprehensive rules and fostering Gracious Professionalism, teamwork, and innovation.

13.1 Importance of Adhering to the Manual

Adhering to the FTC Game Manual ensures compliance with competition rules, promoting fair play and accountability. It provides clear guidelines for robot construction, gameplay, and scoring. Teams must follow the manual to avoid penalties and ensure their eligibility for awards. Understanding and adhering to the manual is essential for success and maintaining the integrity of the competition.

Non-compliance can result in penalties or disqualification, undermining team efforts. The manual is updated annually, reflecting the current season’s theme and rules. Teams should thoroughly review and adhere to the manual to maximize their performance and contribute to a positive competition environment.