Engineering Competitive Robotics: Control, Constraints, and Reality

Competition Context

VEXU robotics is where theoretical control systems meet 2-minute matches, stressed operators, and Murphy's Law.

Driver Control vs. Autonomous

The distinction matters:

Autonomous: Pre-programmed sequences, no human input

Driver Control: Human-in-the-loop, real-time response

Our team's 7th place national finish came from exceptional driver code, not autonomous routines.

The Code That Matters

void driveControl() {
    // Arcade drive with exponential response curve
    int forward = controller.Axis3.position();
    int turn = controller.Axis1.position();
    
    // Exponential curve for fine control at low speeds
    forward = (forward * abs(forward)) / 100;
    turn = (turn * abs(turn)) / 100;
    
    leftMotors.spin(forward + turn);
    rightMotors.spin(forward - turn);
}

Sensor Fusion

Combining multiple data sources for reliable positioning:

Inertial sensors for orientation

Wheel encoders for distance

Vision sensor for object detection

What Competition Teaches

Code must work under pressure

Simplicity beats cleverness

Test in conditions that mirror competition