All Blogs

🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Aim Assist: Is it Cheating or Engineering?

In gaming, aim assist is controversial. In robotics, it's essential. Learn how we code 'aim bots' using PID loops and computer vision.

aim-assistgame-developmentrobot-auto-aim +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Ants: Strength in Numbers (and Gears)

An ant can lift 50x its body weight. How? It's not magic; it's biomechanics. Robots achieve the same feats using Gear Reduction.

gear-ratiostorque-physicsmechanical-advantage +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Arduino vs. Raspberry Pi: Where to Start?

The classic hobbyist question: Arduino or Pi? Learn the differences, which one is better for beginners, and what we use in competitive robotics.

arduino-projectsraspberry-pirobotics-controllers +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

The Batmobile: Grappling Hooks and Winches

Batman climbs buildings with a grappling hook. In the FTC End Game, we do the same thing. Learn the physics of winches and hanging robots.

batmobile-techgrappling-hookwinch-mechanism +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Bats & Dolphins: Seeing with Sound

How does a bat fly in total darkness? Echolocation. Learn how we use the same physics with Ultrasonic Sensors to keep robots from crashing.

echolocationultrasonic-sensorsbiomimicry +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

BattleBots vs. FTC: Building Robots That Win (Without Fire)

Love BattleBots? Learn how FTC offers the same engineering thrill without the destruction. Build competitive robots that solve problems, not just smash them.

battlebotsrobot-combatftc-competition +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

BB-8 and R2-D2: How Do They Actually Move?

From R2-D2's tank treads to BB-8's magical rolling sphere. We deconstruct the real-world engineering behind your favorite Star Wars droids.

star-warsbb8-mechanicsr2d2-drive +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Beyblades: The Physics of Spinning

Why does a Beyblade stay upright? Angular Momentum. Discover how gyroscopic physics helps robots drive straight and stay stable.

beyblade-physicsangular-momentumgyroscopes +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

From Bicycles to Robots: Understanding Gear Ratios

Low gear for hills, high gear for sprints. Understand how torque and speed trade off in transmission systems for robotics.

gear-ratiostorque-vs-speedbicycle-gears +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Big Hero 6 Microbots: Swarm Robotics

Hiro Hamada's Microbots work together to form structures. This is 'Swarm Robotics.' Discover how teams coordinate multiple localized robots.

big-hero-6microbotsswarm-robotics +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Bird Wings: Drag & Lift

Why do planes have flaps? Why do birds fold their wings? Aerodynamics plays a huge role in robot drone launchers and flywheel shooters.

aerodynamicsdrag-coefficientprojectile-motion +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Can I Build a Robot Dog? (Boston Dynamics)

Everyone wants a 'Spot'. But walking on four legs is an engineering nightmare. Unpack the complexity of Inverse Kinematics and Quadrupeds.

boston-dynamicsrobot-dogquadruped +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Is Coding Hard? From Scratch Blocks to Java

Scared of the 'Matrix code' screen? Don't be. Learn how robotics takes you from drag-and-drop blocks to professional Java programming effortlessly.

learn-to-codejava-programmingblock-coding +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Combine Harvesters: The Ultimate Intake Systems

Farm equipment is surprisingly high-tech. Learn how we mimic Combine Harvesters to build 'Active Intakes' that never jam.

combine-harvesteractive-intakerobot-mechanisms +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Do Engineers Actually Use Calculus?

Derivatives? Integrals? Limits? Yes, we use them. Every time a robot moves smoothly, it's thanks to Calculus running in the background.

calculus-applicationspid-controlrobot-math +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Drone Racing: FPV and Telepresence

The rise of FPV drone racing parallels the 'First Person View' skills needed in robotics. Learn about latency, bandwidth, and the future of remote work.

drone-racingfpv-roboticstelepresence +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Elevators & Cranes: The Engineering of Linear Slides

How do skyscrapers use elevators? Pulleys and counterweights. Learn how we miniaturize this tech into 'Viper Slides' for robotics.

linear-slideselevator-mechanicscascading-rigging +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Formula 1 Pit Stops: The Ultimate Teamwork

A 2-second F1 pit stop isn't luck; it's choreography. Learn how robotics teams use the same 'Drive Team' strategies to win matches under pressure.

f1-pit-crewrobotics-drive-teamteamwork-strategy +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

The 'Physics Engine': Ragdolls & Collisions in Robotics

Why do characters fall funny in games? It's the Physics Engine. Learn how we use CAD simulation to test robots before we build them.

game-physicssimulation-softwarecad-design +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Geckos: Sticking to Glass

How does a Gecko hand upside down on glass? Van der Waals forces. Discover how robotic grippers use this microscopic physics to grab objects.

gecko-adhesionvan-der-waalsrobot-grippers +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Girls in STEM: Breaking the Stereotype

Is engineering for boys? Absolutely not. Explore the initiatives, scholarships, and success stories of women in FIRST Robotics breaking the gender gap.

women-in-stemgirls-who-codediversity-in-engineering +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

The 'Hackathon' Culture: Innovation in a Weekend

What is a hackathon? Why do programmers stay up all night? Discover how the FTC Build Season is essentially one massive, adrenaline-fueled hackathon.

hackathon-culturerapid-prototypingbuild-season +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Hot Wheels Boosters: Friction Drives & Physics

Those little motorized wheels that shoot Hot Wheels cars? They are the perfect example of a Friction Drive. A staple mechanism in FTC robotics.

hot-wheelsfriction-driveflywheel-intake +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Hoverboards: Self-Balancing Tech & PID

How does a hoverboard stay upright? It's the 'Inverted Pendulum' problem. Learn how PID loops keep you from face-planting.

hoverboardsself-balancingpid-control +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

The Human Eye: Shutters & Exposure

Why are your robot's photos blurry? Your camera isn't broken; it's just set wrong. Learn how the human eye manages light and exposure.

computer-visioncamera-exposurehuman-eye-physics +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Why is My Internet Slow? (Packet Loss)

Lag spikes. Rubbanding. We all hate it. But for robots, packet loss causes crashes. Understanding UDP vs. TCP.

internet-lagpacket-lossudp-vs-tcp +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Real Life Iron Man: Servos, Motors, and Exoskeletons

How does Iron Man's suit actually work? Explore the real-world engineering of electromechanical actuators, force multiplication, and how you use the same tech in robotics.

iron-manexoskeletonsservos +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Jarvis & Friday: Voice Control AI

Talking to your house is cool. But why don't we talk to our competition robots? Validating the reliability of voice commands vs. autonomous triggers.

voice-controlai-assistantsjarvis-engineering +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Lightsabers: Why We Don't Have Them (Yet)

The physics of a contained plasma blade. Why battery density is the biggest hurdle preventing us from becoming Jedi.

lightsaber-physicsplasma-technologybattery-density +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Mecanum Wheels: Why Forklifts (and Robots) Move Sideways

Have you seen those weird wheels with rollers on forklifts? Those are Mecanum wheels. They allow omnidirectional movement using vector physics.

mecanum-wheelsomnidirectional-driveforklift-tech +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Mechanical Keyboards: Switches & Sensors

Gamers love clicky keyboards. Engineers use them too. Learn how the mechanism inside a Cherry MX switch is identical to robot limit switches.

mechanical-keyboardslimit-switchestactile-sensors +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Muscles vs. Motors: Force vs. Speed

Biological muscles contract linearly. Electric motors spin rotationally. How do we translate 'Spin' into 'Push' to make robots move like humans?

biomechanicslinear-motionrotational-motion +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

NASA Internships: From High School Gyms to Mars

Want to work at NASA? The path doesn't start in college—it starts in a high school gym with FIRST Robotics. Learn about the alumni overlap and technical skills.

nasa-internshipsaerospace-careersfirst-alumni +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Nerf Guns: Flywheels vs. Springs

Is your Nerf blaster a Springer or a Flywheeler? Learn the physics of projectile launchers and how we scale them up for competitive robots.

nerf-moddingflywheel-blastersspring-powered +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Overclocking: Breaking the Limits

Gamers overclock CPUs for more FPS. Roboticists 'overvolt' servos for more torque. Understand the risks and rewards of pushing electronics.

overclockingvoltage-limitsmagic-smoke +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Pacific Rim: Hydraulics vs. Electrics

Jaegers are powered by massive hydraulics. Why don't we use fluid power in FTC? The battle between hydraulic strength and electric precision.

pacific-rimjaeger-techhydraulics +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

PC Cooling: Water vs. Air (and Robots)

Why do high-end PCs need radiators? Discover the thermodynamics of electronics and how robots manage heat without frying motors.

pc-coolingthermodynamicsmotor-cooling +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 6 min read

Remote Controls: Invisible Light

Point a TV remote at your phone camera. You see purple light. That's Infrared (IR). Learn how robots use invisible light to communicate.

infrared-techremote-controlslight-spectrum +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

Roblox & Minecraft: Modding vs. Coding Robots

You've built Redstone computers and scripted Roblox games. Now take that logic to the real world. Why gamers make the best robotics engineers.

minecraft-redstoneroblox-studiogamers-in-stem +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 9 min read

Why Robotics is the #1 Extracurricular for Engineering Colleges

Harvard, MIT, and Stanford love robotics kids. Find out why FIRST Robotics is the ultimate resume booster for future engineers, teaching hard skills and grit.

college-admissionsmit-applicationengineering-extracurricular +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

How Much Do Robot Engineers Make?

Robotics is a lucrative career. Why? Because it's hard. Learn why 'Full Stack' robotics engineers are among the highest-paid in tech.

robotics-salaryengineering-careersfull-stack-engineer +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Touchscreens: Capacitive vs. Resistive

Why doesn't your phone work with gloves on? Understanding the difference between Capacitive and Resistive touch sensors.

touchscreenscapacitive-touchresistive-touch +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 9 min read

Validators & Transformers: Real Transforming Robots

Cars turning into robots isn't just CGI. Learn about the complex linkages and virtual 4-bars that allow FTC robots to expand and transform.

transformersmechanical-linkages4-bar-mechanism +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Turrets: From Battleships to Ball Launchers

Why turn the whole tank when you can just turn the gun? Learn about Turret mechanics, cable management, and laziness in engineering.

turret-mechanicsrobot-shooterlazy-susan +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

VR Headsets: How Do They See Depth?

How does an Oculus know where your hands are? Stereoscopic vision. Learn how robotics teams use dual cameras to create 3D maps.

vr-technologycomputer-visionstereoscopic-cameras +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

WALL-E: The Ultimate Compacting Robot

WALL-E is the master of trash compaction. Learn how we build real-world 'Active Intakes' and grippers to handle objects just like he does.

wall-erobot-intakecompliant-wheels +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

What is 'The Cloud' Anyway?

It sounds fluffy. It's actually a warehouse in Virginia full of servers. Why robots need 'Edge Computing' instead of Cloud Computing.

cloud-computingedge-computingrobotics-processing +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 8 min read

When Will I Use Trigonometry?

You've asked your math teacher. Now get the answer. Trigonometry (SOH CAH TOA) is the foundation of every robot's movement.

trigonometryrobot-mathsoh-ca-toa +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 7 min read

Will AI Do My Homework? (LLMs)

ChatGPT can write essays, but can it fix a broken robot? Why hands-on engineering is the most 'AI-proof' skill you can learn.

chatgptai-failrobotics-careers +3

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🚪 Gateway Jan 30, 2026 6 min read

Wireless Chargers: Magic Electricity

How does your phone charge without a wire? Induction. Understand the physics of magnetic fields and why we don't use it for robots (yet).

wireless-charginginduction-physicselectromagnetism +3

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🔧 Resources Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Ace the Interview: AI-Powered Judging Prep

The interview is 50% of the award. Learn how to simulate high-pressure judging sessions using AI.

judginginterview-prepftc-coach +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Advancement & Brackets: The Path to Worlds

How does the tournament bracket work? How do you advance from Qualifiers to State to Worlds? The definitive guide to the FTC advancement structure.

advancementplayoffsbracket-system +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

'Air Sort': Sorting by Landing Time

The craziest sorting mechanism is no mechanism at all. Using physics to separate game pieces in mid-air.

physicsair-sortadvanced-sorting +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Alliance Selection: Etiquette and Strategy

Gracious Acceptance. Pick Lists. How to handle the most stressful 30 minutes of the competition.

alliance-selectionetiquettestrategy +2

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🧪 Materials Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Alloy Analysis: 6061 vs. 5052 Aluminum

Not all aluminum is created equal. Why you bend 5052 and machine 6061.

materialsaluminummachining +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Auto-Aiming: Odometry & Vision Integration

Fusing Limelight data with Odometry. How to build a bulletproof goal-tracking system.

programmingvisionodometry +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

The 'Auto Problem': Space & Coordination

The field is small. The robots are big. Strategies for running multi-team autonomous routines without crashing.

strategyautonomouscoordination +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Autonomous Optimization: Maximizing the 30-Second Start

Don't just park. A second-by-second breakdown of a winning 30-second Autonomous routine.

autonomousprogrammingoptimization +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Avoiding the Overflow: Managing Ramp Capacity

You have 9 slots. Don't waste them. Strategies to manage the Artifact Limit on the Ramp.

strategyscoringgame-mechanics +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Battery Science for Robotics

Your battery is your fuel tank. Learn about internal resistance, voltage sag, and why you should never charge at 4A.

batterieselectronicsvoltage-sag +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Component Selection: Belts vs. Chains vs. Gears

How to transmit power. A guide to choosing the right linkage for your intakes, arms, and drivetrains.

hardwarebeltschains +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

The Connect Award: Moving Beyond 'Just Outreach'

How to elevate your Connect Award submission by tracking real metrics, engaging professionals, and focusing on quality over quantity.

connect-awardoutreachsponsorship +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 9 min read

The Control Award: Algorithms for the Real World

Stop writing 'magic code'. Learn how to document your software sensors, filters, and logic to win the Control Award.

control-awardsoftwarealgorithms +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Cracking the RP System: How to Rank Rank 1

Winning matches isn't enough. You need Ranking Points. A deep dive into the DECODE season's RP math and how to maximize your score.

ranking-pointsmeta-gametournament-structure +2

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⚡ Electronics Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Custom Sensor Boards: Beyond the Rev Hub

Why pay $40 for a sensor you can build for $2? Designing custom PCBs for break-beams and limit switches.

electronicspcb-designkicad +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 10 min read

Unlocking the Game: A Guide to DECODE Rules

Don't get disqualified. A breakdown of the crucial scoring rules, hidden penalties, and game flow mechanics of the DECODE season.

game-rulespenaltiesscoring +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Decoding Defense: Rules Every Driver Must Know

How to play aggressive defense without getting a Yellow Card. Pinning, blocking, and trapping rules explained.

strategydefenserules +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

The Design Award: Form Meets Function

Industrial design matters. Learn how to balance aesthetics with performance and create a robot that looks as good as it scores.

design-awardCADindustrial-design +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Drive Team Composition: 1 vs. 2 Drivers

Who holds the controller? The pros, cons, and psychology of split controls.

drive-teamhuman-factorscontrols +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Driver Feedback Systems: Rumble & LEDs

Your driver is blind. Use haptic feedback and LEDs to communicate crucial robot states.

programmingdriver-practicehaptics +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Drivetrain Showdown: Swerve vs. Mecanum vs. Tank

The ultimate comparison. We rank the three major drivetrain types based on Agility, Traction, Cost, and Coding Complexity.

drivetrain-comparisonswerve-vs-mecanumrobot-strategy +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Mecanum Drive

The standard for a reason. Why Mecanum wheels offer the best balance of mobility and simplicity for most teams.

mecanumdrivetrainrobot-design +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 9 min read

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Swerve Drive

Is Swerve worth the cost? Analyzing the benefits of omnidirectional movement and field-centric control for the DECODE season.

swervedrivetrainrobot-design +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Tank & 6-Wheel Drive

The tank. The bulldozer. When raw pushing power and traction matter more than fancy strafing.

tank-drive6-wheel-drivetraction +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Dual-Wheel 'Dumper' Robots: Simplicity Wins

You don't need a shooter. How a simple 'Dumper' design can outperform complex shooters in the Low Goal game.

robot-designbeginner-guidedumper-bot +2

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🏭 Manufacturing Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Frame Wars: Wood vs. COTS vs. Custom

How to build your chassis. Is laser-cut wood a joke? Is custom aluminum worth the effort?

chassisdrivetrainprototyping +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

The FTC Printer Lab: Hardware Recommendations

Bambu? Prusa? Creality? We break down the best 3D printers for FTC teams at every budget level.

3D-printinglab-setupprinter-reviews +2

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💼 Business Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Fundraising: Cold Emailing Sponsors

Get money for your robot. How to write a sponsorship deck that converts local businesses into donors.

fundraisingsponsorshipcold-email +2

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💼 Business Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Grant Writing: Winning Non-Technical Awards

Free money exists. How to write narratives for the Gene Haas and Simpson Strong-Tie grants.

grantswritingfunding +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Indexing Showdown: Vertical vs. Horizontal

Which fits your robot? A direct comparison of space claims and complexity for DECODE indexers.

indexer-comparisonrobot-designspindexer +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

The Innovate Award: Ingenuity in Action

Innovation isn't just about being weird. It's about being elegant. Learn how to identify and document your robot's 'Spark of Genius'.

innovate-awardrobot-designinnovation +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 10 min read

The Inspire Award: The Holy Grail of FTC

The ultimate prize. How to synthesize Think, Connect, and Innovate into a cohesive 'Role Model' team profile that wins the Inspire Award.

inspire-awardchampionshiprole-model +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Intake Mechanics: Surgical Tubing 'Noodles'

Why does everyone use yellow surgical tubing? The physics of the 'Beater Bar' intake and why it's the most reliable choice.

intake-designsurgical-tubingbeater-bar +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Intake Mechanics: Compliant Wheels

Precision over chaos. Using compliant wheels for a 'Touch It, Own It' intake style.

intake-designcompliant-wheelsrobot-mechanisms +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Intake Showdown: Noodles vs. Wheels

The debate ends here. Which intake style is better for the DECODE artifacts? We compare grip, speed, and durability.

intake-comparisonrobot-designengineering-decisions +2

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🔧 Resources Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Introducing FTC Coach: Your AI Judging Assistant

Your portfolio is good. Make it perfect. How Vanta's AI tool analyzes your documentation for award-winning criteria.

awardsjudgingftc-coach +2

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🔧 Resources Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Introducing FTC Secrets: The Ultimate Analytics Platform

Stop guessing. Start knowing. How to use Vanta's exclusive analytics tool to predict match outcomes and scout partners.

scoutinganalyticsftc-secrets +2

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📊 Management Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Knowledge Transfer: Wikis & Documentation

The 'Truck Factor'. If your lead programmer gets hit by a truck, can the team continue? How to build a Team Wiki.

documentationwikinotion +2

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🏭 Manufacturing Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Manufacturing Showdown: 3D Print vs. CNC vs. Laser

Subtractive or Additive? A matrix comparison of speed, precision, and material strength for robot parts.

manufacturingCNClaser-cutting +2

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📐 CAD Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Master Sketches: Top-Down Assembly Design

One sketch to rule them all. How to control your entire robot's geometry from a single file.

cadonshapearchitecture +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Mastering the Motif: Strategic Scoring

Purple-Green-Purple. How to optimize your scoring patterns to maximize the Motif Bonus in DECODE.

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Match Strategy: The Pre-Match Checklist

The 2 minutes that decide the match. What to discuss with your alliance partner before the timer starts.

strategymatch-planningcommunication +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Material Guide: ABS & ASA

Heat resistance and durability. Why ABS is the classic engineering plastic but hard to print.

3D-printingABSASA +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Material Guide: Carbon Fiber Nylon

The metal replacer. Industrial strength for gears, pulleys, and structural parts.

3D-printingnyloncarbon-fiber +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Material Guide: PETG

The best of both worlds. Combining the ease of PLA with the durability of ABS.

3D-printingPETGmaterials +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

Material Guide: PLA & PLA+

The budget king. When to use PLA for prototyping vs when it will melt in your car.

3D-printingPLAmaterials +2

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🧪 Materials Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Material Guide: Polycarbonate (PC)

Bulletproof glass for your robot. When to print it, when to machine it, and why it is the ultimate impact shield.

3D-printingpolycarbonatemachining +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Material Guide: TPU (Flexibles)

Rubber for robots. How to use flexible filament for grippers, bumpers, and shock absorbers.

3D-printingTPUflexible-filament +2

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🤝 Outreach Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Mentoring FLL: The Pipeline Strategy

Don't let your team die when you graduate. Building a feeder system using First Lego League.

mentoringfllpipeline +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

The Motivate Award: Spreading the Culture

How to become an ambassador for FIRST. Learn to structure your Motivate Award submission by defining your team identity and sparking interest in STEM.

motivate-awardoutreachteam-identity +2

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🏗️ Engineering Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Off-Season Projects: Swerve & Experimentation

Champions are made in the summer. Why you should build 'crazy' robots when the points don't matter.

off-seasonprojectsswerve-drive +2

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📐 CAD Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Onshape Mastery: Feature Scripts for FTC

Stop modeling holes manually. Automate your CAD workflow with these essential custom scripts.

cadonshapeautomation +2

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🤝 Outreach Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Outreach Impact: Quality vs. Quantity

Does your outreach matter? Why judges prefer 50 hours of deep mentorship over 500 hours of passive demos.

outreachconnect-awardimpact +2

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🔧 Resources Jan 13, 2026 12 min read

The Perfect Portfolio: Documenting Your DECODE Journey

15 pages to tell your story. How to structure your Engineering Portfolio for maximum impact in the DECODE season.

portfoliodocumentationgraphic-design +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

The Physics of Backspin: Why It Matters

Stability. Retention. Range. How adding backspin to your game piece changes everything.

physicsbackspinaerodynamics +2

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🤝 Outreach Jan 13, 2026 5 min read

The Pit Display: Marketing Your Team

It's not just a table. It's your storefront. How to design a pit that attracts judges and scouts.

pit-displaymarketingjudging +2

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🏭 Manufacturing Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Pocketing Perfected: Isogrids & Light-Weighting

How to make your robot lighter and cooler. The math and aesthetics of pocketing patterns.

CNCpocketinglight-weighting +2

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📊 Management Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Recruitment: The 'Tryout' Process

How to filter for dedication. Stop accepting everyone and start building a team of committed engineers.

recruitmentteam-managementleadership +2

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📐 CAD Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Rendering for Judges: Keyshot vs Blender

Make your robot look like a Ferrari. How to create photorealistic renders for your Engineering Portfolio.

cadrenderingkeyshot +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Scouting Apps: Building vs. Paper

Tableau dashboards or clipboards? The pros and cons of digital scouting systems.

scoutingapp-developmentdata-analysis +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Scouting for Success: Finding the Perfect Partner

Data wins events. How to scout for 'hidden gem' robots that complement your strategy.

scoutingdata-analysisalliance-selection +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

The 'Secret Tunnel': Risk vs. Reward

Is the shortcut worth it? Analyzing the strategic value of the Secret Tunnel zone in DECODE.

strategymap-analysisrisk-reward +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Shoot on the Move: Kinematics & Physics

Don't stop to shoot. Learn the vector math required to compensate for your robot's velocity.

programmingphysicskinematics +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Shooter Design: The Adjustable Hood

Unlock the entire field. How an adjustable hood allows you to score from anywhere and avoid defense.

shooterrobot-designmechanisms +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Shooter Comparison: Hoods vs. Speed Control

Which is better for aiming? Adjusting the angle or adjusting the speed? A data-driven comparison.

shooter-comparisonrobot-designphysics +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Shooter Design: The Fixed Hood

Simplicity is king. Why a fixed hood shooter might be the most reliable choice for DECODE's high-goal targets.

shooterrobot-designmechanisms +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Powering the Shot: 1 Motor vs. 2 Motors

Is one motor enough? Why nearly every top team uses dual-motor flywheel systems for recovery time and torque.

motorshardwareshooter-design +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Rapid Fire Recovery: Shooting Back-to-Back

Why does your second shot always miss? We explain the physics of flywheel recovery and how to maintain RPM during rapid fire.

shooter-physicsflywheel-recoveryrapid-fire +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Trajectory Physics: High Arc vs. Low Arc

The geometry of winning. When to use a high lob shot to evade defense versus a flat laser shot for speed and accuracy.

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Shooter Design: Variable Speed Systems

Can you change range just by changing speed? We analyze the physics of RPM modulation for range control.

shooterPID-controlphysics +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 9 min read

Code Architecture: Command-Based vs. State Machines

Stop writing spaghetti code. How to organize complex subsystems using Finite State Machines.

programmingarchitecturestate-machine +2

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⚡ Electronics Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Solder Splices vs. Wagos: Reliability at Scale

The great debate. Permanent vs Reusable. We test conductivity, vibration resistance, and repairability.

electronicswiringsoldering +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Spindexer Science: Horizontal Designs

The Lazy Susan approach. How horizontal spindexers offer massive storage capacity for the DECODE artifacts.

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Spindexer Science: Vertical Designs

Space saving and gravity fed. Why the vertical 'Revolver' style indexer is perfect for compact robots.

indexerspindexervertical-indexer +2

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♟️ Strategy Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

TeleOp Strategy: Cycle Times & Human Players

The 2-minute grind. How to shave seconds off your cycle time and the crucial role of the Human Player.

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🎖️ Awards Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

The Think Award: Documenting the Journey to Success

Master the art of engineering documentation. Learn how to structure your portfolio to win the Think Award by showcasing your design process, math, and diagrams.

think-awardportfolioengineering-design +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Turrets: The 360-Degree Advantage

Uncouple your driving from your shooting. Why a turret is the ultimate weapon for scoring under defense.

turretrobot-designadvanced-mechanisms +2

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🔩 Hardware Jan 13, 2026 8 min read

Turret Mechanics: Bearings & Construction

So you want to build a turret. Let's talk about X-Contact bearings, 3D printed pulleys, and wire management.

turretbearings3D-printing +2

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💾 Software Jan 13, 2026 7 min read

Vision Processing: Automating Artifact Recognition

Green or Purple? How to use OpenCV and TensorFlow to sort game pieces automatically.

programmingvisionopencv +2

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⚡ Electronics Jan 13, 2026 6 min read

Wiring Management: The Art of the Cable Snake

Spaghetti wiring loses matches. How to route wires for turrets, slides, and claws using IGUS chains.

wiringcable-managementigus-chain +2

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💻 Programming Jan 10, 2026 12 min read

Getting Started with FTC Programming: A Complete Beginner's Guide

Learn the fundamentals of FTC robot programming, from setting up Android Studio to writing your first OpMode. Perfect for teams just starting their coding journey.

javaandroid-studiobeginner +2

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⚙️ Technical Jan 8, 2026 15 min read

Mastering PID Control for FTC Drivetrains

A deep dive into PID controllers and how to implement them for smooth, accurate robot movement. Includes tuning tips and real-world examples.

pidcontrol-systemsdrivetrain +2

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🎖️ Awards Jan 5, 2026 10 min read

How to Win the Connect Award: A Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about the FTC Connect Award—from understanding the criteria to building relationships with sponsors and telling your story effectively.

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🔩 Hardware Jan 3, 2026 8 min read

Designing a Reliable Game Piece Intake: Tips and Techniques

Learn the mechanical principles behind effective intake systems. From wheel selection to geometry, here's everything you need to design an intake that actually works.

intakemechanismdesign +2

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🏆 Competition Jan 1, 2026 6 min read

Our Competition Day Checklist: Never Forget Anything Again

The comprehensive checklist our team uses on competition day. From tools to spare parts to snacks—we've got everything covered.

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♟️ Strategy Dec 28, 2025 9 min read

Scouting 101: How to Scout Effectively at FTC Competitions

Learn how to gather useful data about other teams, make better alliance selections, and improve your strategy through effective scouting.

scoutingstrategyalliance-selection +2

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👥 Team Dec 25, 2025 11 min read

Building a Strong Team Culture: Lessons from Five Seasons

Team culture makes or breaks FTC teams. Here's what we've learned about fostering collaboration, handling conflict, and building something that lasts.

team-cultureleadershipmanagement +2

Aim Assist: Is it Cheating or Engineering?

Ants: Strength in Numbers (and Gears)

Arduino vs. Raspberry Pi: Where to Start?

The Batmobile: Grappling Hooks and Winches

Bats & Dolphins: Seeing with Sound

BattleBots vs. FTC: Building Robots That Win (Without Fire)

BB-8 and R2-D2: How Do They Actually Move?

Beyblades: The Physics of Spinning

From Bicycles to Robots: Understanding Gear Ratios

Big Hero 6 Microbots: Swarm Robotics

Bird Wings: Drag & Lift

Can I Build a Robot Dog? (Boston Dynamics)

Is Coding Hard? From Scratch Blocks to Java

Combine Harvesters: The Ultimate Intake Systems

Do Engineers Actually Use Calculus?

Drone Racing: FPV and Telepresence

Elevators & Cranes: The Engineering of Linear Slides

Formula 1 Pit Stops: The Ultimate Teamwork

The 'Physics Engine': Ragdolls & Collisions in Robotics

Geckos: Sticking to Glass

Girls in STEM: Breaking the Stereotype

The 'Hackathon' Culture: Innovation in a Weekend

Hot Wheels Boosters: Friction Drives & Physics

Hoverboards: Self-Balancing Tech & PID

The Human Eye: Shutters & Exposure

Why is My Internet Slow? (Packet Loss)

Real Life Iron Man: Servos, Motors, and Exoskeletons

Jarvis & Friday: Voice Control AI

Lightsabers: Why We Don't Have Them (Yet)

Mecanum Wheels: Why Forklifts (and Robots) Move Sideways

Mechanical Keyboards: Switches & Sensors

Muscles vs. Motors: Force vs. Speed

NASA Internships: From High School Gyms to Mars

Nerf Guns: Flywheels vs. Springs

Overclocking: Breaking the Limits

Pacific Rim: Hydraulics vs. Electrics

PC Cooling: Water vs. Air (and Robots)

Remote Controls: Invisible Light

Roblox & Minecraft: Modding vs. Coding Robots

Why Robotics is the #1 Extracurricular for Engineering Colleges

How Much Do Robot Engineers Make?

Touchscreens: Capacitive vs. Resistive

Validators & Transformers: Real Transforming Robots

Turrets: From Battleships to Ball Launchers

VR Headsets: How Do They See Depth?

WALL-E: The Ultimate Compacting Robot

What is 'The Cloud' Anyway?

When Will I Use Trigonometry?

Will AI Do My Homework? (LLMs)

Wireless Chargers: Magic Electricity

Ace the Interview: AI-Powered Judging Prep

Advancement & Brackets: The Path to Worlds

'Air Sort': Sorting by Landing Time

Alliance Selection: Etiquette and Strategy

Alloy Analysis: 6061 vs. 5052 Aluminum

Auto-Aiming: Odometry & Vision Integration

The 'Auto Problem': Space & Coordination

Autonomous Optimization: Maximizing the 30-Second Start

Avoiding the Overflow: Managing Ramp Capacity

Battery Science for Robotics

Component Selection: Belts vs. Chains vs. Gears

The Connect Award: Moving Beyond 'Just Outreach'

The Control Award: Algorithms for the Real World

Cracking the RP System: How to Rank Rank 1

Custom Sensor Boards: Beyond the Rev Hub

Unlocking the Game: A Guide to DECODE Rules

Decoding Defense: Rules Every Driver Must Know

The Design Award: Form Meets Function

Drive Team Composition: 1 vs. 2 Drivers

Driver Feedback Systems: Rumble & LEDs

Drivetrain Showdown: Swerve vs. Mecanum vs. Tank

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Mecanum Drive

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Swerve Drive

Drivetrain Deep Dive: Tank & 6-Wheel Drive

Dual-Wheel 'Dumper' Robots: Simplicity Wins

Frame Wars: Wood vs. COTS vs. Custom

The FTC Printer Lab: Hardware Recommendations

Fundraising: Cold Emailing Sponsors

Grant Writing: Winning Non-Technical Awards