This is our first year implementing a Robotics program and we intent to compete in our nationals on Feb 3, 2023. We have purchased all the Vex IQ Competition kits and other Vex products we need to compete. But preparing is a bit overwhelming.
I see other teams seem to be very organized with their supplies for transporting robots and having everything they need to be ready to compete: things like plastic bins, containers, bags, connectors, etc. I would love to know, from your experience, what supplies we need. Please be as specific as possible (sizes, etc.).
For a new team in iq, I would recommend two competition kits. Depending on the complexity of your robot, you may need more parts, however, newer teams will likeley not need the full expanse of 2 competition kits. But they do come with the basic essentials to build basically any robot, and two should be enough to put a fairly competitive robot together.
That’s a really broad question and hard to answer in a typed out response. You need a container(s) big enough to carry your spare parts and your tools. Some people like to put their bot in a box other people just transport the bot separately. A wagon for carrying all your stuff in and out of places you go is helpful. The folding ones are popular by me. When you go to an event bring snacks and beverages, make sure you make plans for meals especially if there is nothing available at the event.
What would be really helpful is if you could attend an event that you aren’t competing at. Then you can get a preview of the experience without the pressure of competing. Talk with other teams, see what they are doing.
Thank you all for your replies. We have enough competition kits.
I’m mostly interested in all the other (non-Vex) supplies that teams find essential when going on road, so that they are organized and ready to compete when they arrive at nationals.
I wish I had time to observe a nationals competition and take notes, but there is no time. I’m three weeks into starting this program. We just formed a team and will be racing to complete the HeroBot. My boss is adamant about us going to nationals. Though this is an imperfect situation, I think we can learn a lot and have fun. Just putting a robot on the field and scoring some points will be a success.
As far as I can tell, here is a list I will need:
Large containers for spare parts and tools
Small plastic containers for spare parts
Box for the bot (if needed) to transport separately
A folding wagon or cart for carrying all the stuff
You want your large containers to nest storage is easy when they are not needed.
These are tough, nesting, cheap, easy to get, and available in various sizes. They do NOT have an internal divider though.
Power strip(s)
Approx 2x2 plywood with a 2" high border around it. Allows working on the bot w/o dropped pieces hitting the floor, rolling away, and being lost.
I would recommend getting some of the IQ ‘advanced’ parts. There are some corner connectors that are very good. The odd length 1x and 2x are good as well.
These are not cheap, but they excel at vex storage due to:
lid locks and won’t open accidentally
tough as nails
the lid protrudes down into the compartments… this prevents parts moving between compartments if turned on the side
This thing is great. Tough, Cheap, Runs for, literally, like 24 hours on one battery. Can sit upright or clamp to a desk/etc. Swivel and adjustable tilt.
Excellent for cooling off hot bot motors and people also.
