Maze Solving — Official Rules

1. Introduction

This document outlines the rules for the maze robot competition.

2. Description of the Competition

One operator and four helpers can be registered for each robot (there can be a maximum of 5 team members in total). However, only one operator is allowed to guide the robot during the encounter. The area where the matches are held is called "Runway".

Robots in the labyrinth solving category will complete the competition by starting from the starting point of the track consisting of black floor and white walls, finding the exit area and exiting as soon as possible. Each contestant invited to the Track for the competition accepts the competition rules and winning conditions and must participate in the competition using only autonomous robots made or programmed by himself.

The robots are placed by the competitors on the track simultaneously at the referee's command. After placement, competitors step away from the robot and the referee starts the competition. The robot that manages to find the exit in the shortest time wins the competition.

2.1. Competition Format

The competition format is determined by the tournament organizers depending on the number of participants. Teams have multiple attempts to complete the maze within the allocated time limit.

2.2. Classification and Rating

Fibonacci International Robot Olympiad Maze Solving competitions classify participants by education level and age groups:

• Primary School (6-10): Simple maze with basic paths
• Secondary School (10-14): Medium complexity maze
• High School (14-18): Advanced maze with multiple paths
• University (18+): Complex maze with dead ends and loops

3. Maze Specifications

The maze consists of a rectangular area with black floor and white walls. The maze includes starting area, exit area, and various pathways with potential dead ends.

3.1. Starting Area

The starting area is clearly marked and allows for proper robot placement. The starting position is determined by the referee and must be respected by all contestants.

3.2. Exit Area

The exit area is located at a different position from the start and is clearly identifiable. Successfully reaching the exit area within the time limit constitutes completion.

3.3. Maze Features

• Dead Ends: Paths that lead nowhere, testing robot decision-making
• Multiple Paths: Alternative routes to the exit
• Junctions: Decision points with multiple path options
• Loops: Circular paths that may confuse navigation algorithms

4. Robot Requirements

4.1. Size and Weight Limitations

4.2. Sensor Systems

Robots must use appropriate sensors for maze navigation:

• Ultrasonic Sensors: For distance measurement and wall detection
• Infrared Sensors: For proximity detection and navigation
• Camera Systems: Computer vision for advanced navigation (higher categories)
• Encoders: For precise movement and position tracking

4.3. Autonomous Operation

All robots must operate completely autonomously once the competition starts. Remote control or guidance is strictly prohibited during the maze-solving phase.

4.4. Safety Requirements

• Secure component mounting to prevent part separation
• Safe battery installation and management
• No sharp edges or dangerous protrusions
• Emergency stop capability recommended

5. Competition Rules

5.1. Time Limits

5.2. Scoring System

Robots are ranked based on:

1. Completion: Successfully reaching the exit
2. Time: Fastest completion time among successful attempts
3. Efficiency: Shortest path taken to reach exit
4. Consistency: Multiple successful attempts

5.3. Penalties and Disqualifications

• Wall Contact: 10-second penalty for significant wall contact
• Assistance: Disqualification for any human intervention during run
• Size/Weight Violation: Disqualification if robot exceeds limits
• Damage: Penalty or disqualification for maze damage

6. Technical Specifications

6.1. Navigation Strategies

Common maze-solving algorithms include:

• Wall Following: Following left or right wall consistently
• Depth-First Search: Systematic exploration of paths
• Breadth-First Search: Level-by-level path exploration
• A* Algorithm: Optimal pathfinding with heuristics

6.2. Mapping Requirements

Advanced categories may require robots to create and utilize internal maps of the maze for optimal navigation.

7. Judging and Awards

7.1. Ranking Criteria

1. Successful completion of maze
2. Fastest completion time
3. Most efficient path
4. Technical innovation in navigation

7.2. Special Awards

• Speed Champion: Fastest overall completion
• Navigation Excellence: Most efficient pathfinding
• Technical Innovation: Most creative navigation approach
• Persistence Award: Best improvement across attempts

8. Safety and Conduct

8.1. Competition Safety

All participants must observe safety protocols during competition and robot handling.

8.2. Fair Play

Teams must demonstrate good sportsmanship and respect for officials, other teams, and equipment. Violations may result in penalties or disqualification.