ARC Robotics

Overview

Advanced Robotics Competition (formerly RoboMaster) is an international challenge created by DJI. Originating in China, it has since gained popularity worldwide, attracting university teams from across the globe. The competition is designed to challenge teams in both engineering and strategy, requiring participants to design, build, and program a fleet of robots to compete in a complex, battle-like arena. Our team, Northstar, was founded in 2023, and has been competing ever since.

Why Join?

If you're interested in fast-paced competition and strategy, check out ARC. Northstar builds for a competition where performance and decision making, play a large role in success. You'll receive experience in:

Iterating around game strategy and objectives
Mechanical and electrical systems built for speed and reliability
Computer vision and controls

What you'll work on

Analyzing game rules and strategy
Designing robots for maximum scoring potential
Integrating mechanical, electrical, and control systems
Developing driver controls and system responsiveness
Testing and refining performance through practice matches
Iterating designs based on gameplay

Subteams

Mechanical

Designs the robot’s physical systems for mobility, durability, and interaction.

Focus Areas:

Mobility and drivetrain design
Flywheel and feeding mechanisms for projectile scoring
CAD modeling and design iteration
fabrication, assembly, and integration

Software

Develops autonomy, controls, and logic.

Focus Areas

autonomous navigation and localization
sensor integration and data processing
control systems and motion logic
task sequencing and state machines
testing and debugging on hardware

Electrical

Builds and integrates the robot’s power and control systems.

Focus Areas:

power distribution and wiring harness design
motor controllers and sensor integration
embedded systems and communication
electrical debugging and system validation
reliability and safety considerations

Meet the Leads

Tom Elliot-Drenth

Project Lead

Nathan Metko

Software Lead

Diren Gomez

Electrical Lead

Jakob Yearous

Mechanical Lead

Ready to Join?

No experience is required, we'll teach you what you need to know. New members start by joining a subteam, learning the basics, and contributing to ongoing builds.

Come to a meeting, talk to a lead, or join our communication channels to get started.