Robotic Vehicle

Summary: A prototype robot designed for the New Trier Science Olympiad Robot Tour event, built using LEGO Mindstorms and programmed with Python to test precision, timing, and route-following accuracy.

Skills used: Python (EV3-MicroPython) • LEGO Mechanical Assembly • Algorithm Development • Iterative Design & Testing

Project overview: This project was an early prototype for my Robot Tour build for New Trier’s Science Olympiad team. Since New Trier had previously competed at Nationals using a LEGO Mindstorms system, I wanted to evaluate how precise the platform could be before committing to a full competition build. To gain more control than block coding allowed, I programmed the robot using the EV3-MicroPython add-on, which enabled me to implement more advanced algorithms for entering the route and adjusting for the required target time.

A key challenge of the event is that the full route must be programmed on-site within a strict time limit. To address this, I designed a streamlined input system that allowed me to quickly enter distances, turns, and the target completion time. The prototype performed with promising accuracy, and I’m now exploring mechanical and software refinements to further improve consistency for upcoming Science Olympiad competitions.