Photovore Competition

Toronto has long been a hotspot for BEAM robotics, thanks in large part to the regular BuildFests at Bug ‘n’ Bots. Too bad I didn’t have a working camera, for there were many fascinating devices.

Gord Mitchell kindly sent me a photograph of Ugly and Fred competing in the traditional BEAM Photovore competition. This was the last year of this particular competition. ECRG is revising it and there was a sneak peak in the rulebooks.

The new format will be a daylong exhibition. The rules encourage solar-powered micro-sumo and nano-sumo size competitors, with no limit on the size or number of solar cells. Participants can enter up to four solar-powered robots and have them compete together in swarms or teams. Judging by these rules, ECRG 2004’s Photovore Exhibit will be a good challenge.