LEGO Line Follower — Official Rules

1. Introduction

LEGO Line Follower competition challenges teams to build fast and accurate line-following robots using only LEGO components and programming platforms.

2. Competition Overview

LEGO-based robots must navigate complex tracks with precision and speed. This category emphasizes algorithmic thinking and sensor programming within LEGO ecosystem constraints.

2.1. Team Structure

Maximum 5 team members per robot. Teams must demonstrate understanding of both mechanical design and programming concepts.

2.2. Age Categories

• Elementary (6-10): LEGO Education sets, simple tracks
• Middle School (10-14): LEGO Mindstorms EV3/SPIKE Prime
• High School (14-18): Advanced programming, complex tracks

3. Robot Requirements

3.1. Construction Rules

• 100% LEGO: Only official LEGO parts and compatible sensors
• Programming: LEGO-approved software platforms only
• Autonomous: No remote control during competition
• Sensor Systems: LEGO-compatible sensors for line detection

3.2. Sensor Requirements

• Line Detection: LEGO light/color sensors
• Navigation: Gyro sensors for advanced categories
• Distance: Ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection
• Custom Arrays: Multiple sensor configurations allowed

4. Track Specifications

4.1. Track Design

Tracks designed specifically for LEGO robots with appropriate scaling and complexity for each age group.

4.2. Track Features

• Standard Elements: Curves, straight sections, intersections
• Advanced Elements: Bridges, ramps, color zones
• Challenge Elements: Gaps, double lines, maze sections

5. Competition Rules

5.1. Race Format

Each team has 3 attempts to complete the track. Best time among successful runs determines ranking.

5.2. Timing and Scoring

• Completion Time: Primary ranking factor
• Accuracy Points: Staying on track without corrections
• Consistency Bonus: Multiple successful runs
• Speed Penalty: For track departures or restarts

5.3. Time Limits

6. Programming Standards

6.1. Approved Platforms

• LEGO Education: Scratch-based programming
• EV3-G: Graphical programming environment
• SPIKE Prime: Word blocks and Python
• Advanced: MicroPython, RobotC (with approval)

6.2. Algorithm Requirements

Teams must demonstrate understanding of:

• Sensor-based decision making
• PID control concepts (advanced categories)
• State machine programming
• Calibration and adaptation strategies

7. Educational Objectives

7.1. Learning Goals

• Engineering Design: Iterative improvement process
• Programming Logic: Algorithmic thinking and debugging
• Sensor Integration: Data processing and interpretation
• Team Collaboration: Project management and communication

7.2. Assessment Criteria

Teams may be evaluated on:

• Technical documentation and reflection
• Problem-solving approach and adaptation
• Code quality and organization
• Presentation of design decisions

8. Awards and Recognition

8.1. Performance Awards

• Speed Champion: Fastest completion time per category
• Consistency Award: Most reliable performance
• Technical Excellence: Best engineering and programming
• Innovation: Creative solutions within LEGO constraints

8.2. Educational Recognition

Special recognition for teams demonstrating exceptional learning outcomes and documentation of their design process.