November 19, 2010 > Robots rule!
Body Forward is an athletic event of the mind. This all day competition is an exercise of cutting edge robotics that will showcase 24 teams of 4th-8th grade students who hope to qualify for Northern California Regional Competition. Each team has bio-engineered and programmed a robot to demonstrate their knowledge and prowess.
Every September, First Lego League Robotics (FLL) releases a "Challenge," based on a real-world scientific topic. Each Challenge has two parts: the Robot Game and the Project. This year, the Body Forward theme examines innovative approaches that "will explore the cutting-edge world of biomedical engineering to discover innovative ways to repair injuries, overcome genetic predispositions, and maximize the body's potential, with the intended purpose of leading happier and healthier lives."
Teams have programmed an autonomous robot to solve a problem they have identified within the theme. In past years, challenges have focused on nanotechnology, climate, quality of life for the handicapped population, and transportation.
One of the qualifying First Lego League Robotics (FLL) Tournaments is slated for Saturday, November 20th at Irvington High School in Fremont. Students will be judged in robot design, performance, research presentation and teamwork. To demonstrate the culmination of these elements, four team flights will run robot missions simultaneously.
This year, over 15,000 teams formed for this competition in over 50 countries. The Irvington High School event is expected to attract approximately 150 student team members, their coaches and families. The event is free and open to the public.
For information about First Lego League Robotics and programs designed for other age groups, visit the following web sites:
2010 Body Forward Challenge
Opening Ceremony 9:15 a.m.
Irvington High School
41800 Blacow Rd., Fremont