SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC
Battle of the bots, Sask Polytech hosts annual Robot Rumble

On May 2, Saskatchewan Polytechnic hosted the highly anticipated Robot Rumble, presented by SaskTel, where 56 teams of 130 students from 26 high schools from across the province showcased their technical expertise and problem solving abilities. Students worked in pairs to construct, program and test robots made from SUMO robot kits. Two classes of competition were offered this year, stock and modified.

 

Similar to traditional Japanese sumo wrestling matches, the SUMObots faced off against each other in a ring, with the objective of knocking or pushing their opponent's robot out of the ring. The team whose SUMObot remained in the ring the longest emerged victorious. Following a round-robin tournament in the morning, the final rumbles took place in the afternoon, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

"Participating in Robot Rumble provides students a unique opportunity to develop valuable skills that include problem-solving, teamwork and creativity in a dynamic and engaging environment," says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. "Robot Rumble introduces students to education and career options in STEM fields and fosters a passion for innovation and technology that can drive positive change in our world. Thank you to participating students, supportive high school teachers and chaperones, and the sponsors who made this event possible."

Robot Rumble not only serves as a thrilling competition but also plays a crucial role in promoting hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. By encouraging collaboration and teamwork, the event helps students enhance their problem-solving abilities and build confidence as they witness the tangible results of their hard work and effort.

The Electronic Systems Engineering Technology program looks forward to this event every year. Students and instructors actively contribute to the event by assisting with setup and judging the SUMO robot battles. Many of the program's students had previously participated in Robot Rumble during their high school years, highlighting the lasting impact and inspiration the competition provides.

STOCK ROBOTS

First place stock:

Prize:

Jim Bob

Warman High School, Warman, SK

$1,500 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $250 cash each.

Second place stock:            

Prize:   

The Falcon

Marion M. Graham Collegiate, Saskatoon, SK

$1,000 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $150 cash each.

Third place stock:           

Prize:   

Maverick

Marion M. Graham Collegiate, Saskatoon, SK

$500 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $100 cash each.

MODIFIED ROBOTS

First place modified:

Prize:

Team #50

Rossignol High School, Île-à-la-Crosse, SK

$1,500 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $250 cash each.

Second place modified:        

Prize:   

Spark

Walter Murray Collegiate, Saskatoon, SK

$1,000 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $150 cash each.

Third place modified:

Prize:   

McEathan

Rossignol High School, Île-à-la-Crosse, SK

$500 tuition credit to a Saskatchewan Polytechnic program in the School of Mining, Manufacturing & Engineering Technologies and $100 cash each.

Careers in mining, energy and manufacturing require a diversity of skills. Sask Polytech's School of Mining, Energy and Manufacturing programs train students in everything from engineering technology, welding and industrial mechanics to electronics, ironworking and underground mining.

Learn more about Robot Rumble at robotrumble.saskpolytech.ca.