FIRST Lego League (FLL) 2021 CARGO CONNECT
We had member changes this season. The SF Hackers now stands for Super Fun Hackers. HOORAY!!!
We are passionate about exploring new ideas and acquiring new skills. During the CARGO CONNECT season, we decided to enhance our learning experience by purchasing and utilizing Spike Prime. We built a Spike Prime robot and conducted various tests using word block programs. One of the notable advantages we observed was that the Spike Prime hub’s gyro sensor demonstrated exceptional stability during runs, eliminating the issue of drifting that we encountered with EV3. Additionally, we no longer required color calibration, which was a necessity with EV3. Another notable feature was the compact size of the Spike Prime robot, in contrast to our previous EV3 model. We constructed three base robots using Spike Prime, and while the first one was not perfectly squared, we addressed this by designing and building a squared version with the wheels positioned at the back. However, this adjustment resulted in squeaking noises when using attachments. To resolve this, we relocated the wheels to the front, resulting in our third version being solid, squared, and well-balanced.
In preparation for the CARGO CONNECT missions, we meticulously analyzed the requirements and devised four distinct launch strategies. Initially, we employed our hands to accomplish the tasks, subsequently replicating their functionality through attachments. These attachments were then connected to the attachment base using gears, which were in turn powered by medium motors. Through strategic planning, thoughtful robot design, and extensive testing, we achieved the remarkable feat of scoring the highest points in the LA regional qualifier. With a total of 670 points available, we obtained an impressive score of 600, potentially making us the highest-scoring team among all participating teams in the United States during that time.
Our pursuit of excellence extended to the innovation project as well. We conducted extensive research by visiting various locations such as the Long Beach Harbor and a warehouse, and we had the privilege of consulting experts including a Vice President responsible for supply chain management. We chose to tackle the problem of misdelivery of packages and developed an effective solution. Winning the Innovation Project Award filled us with tremendous excitement and a sense of accomplishment.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the FLL organizers, judges, referees, and dedicated volunteers who made this experience possible. In particular, we extend our special thanks to Qualcomm for providing our team with a grant, enabling us to participate in this enriching program.
In the LA regional final, our team achieved amscore of 585 points, securing the highest position. Similar to the qualifier tournament, we had the opportunity to participate in person. While it did not quite replicate the same atmosphere as the City Shaper season, it was still an exciting experience to interact with judges and fellow teams in person.
On December 12, 2021, we emerged victorious as the Los Angeles regional champions, earning the privilege of advancing to the highly anticipated FLL World Championship. Scheduled to take place in Houston from April 20 to 23, 2022, this upcoming event has filled us with tremendous excitement and anticipation. We eagerly look forward to showcasing our skills and knowledge on a global stage.
#QUALCOMMFORGOOD
#LAFLL
#SOCALFLL
#FIRSTINCA
#MAKEITLOUD
FIRST Lego League (FLL) 2020 RePLAY
Despite the numerous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the indomitable spirit of SF Hackers (FLL Team 44690) comprising Justin, Michael, Terry, and William persevered, allowing them to actively participate in the Los Angeles Region FIRST Lego League (FLL) RePLAY season.
Our journey for this season commenced on July 23rd. Recognizing that FLL-LA’s tournaments would be held virtually, we dedicated ourselves to mastering the usage of Shotcut, a valuable video editing tool for this purpose. With a focus on innovation, we honed our base robot, ensuring it was equipped with efficient and inventive attachments that seamlessly aligned with the RePLAY missions. Through diligent effort, we sharpened our coding skills using EV3 Mindstorms, meticulously testing our programs block by block. Our dedication paid off as we devised effective mission strategies and executed them with precision.
We were elated when our team achieved the highest score of 495 points during the qualifying tournaments. Additionally, we were honored to secure 1st place in Core Values. While winning awards brought us joy, we hold an even deeper appreciation for the invaluable experiences gained throughout this journey. Acquiring new problem-solving skills, embracing diverse ideas, and fostering teamwork—especially in the face of the pandemic’s challenges—hold profound significance for us.
In the LA regional final, our team scored the highest 515 points. We also won a Robot Design award. As always, we’d like to thank our parents, our teachers, and the FLL volunteers. Thank you for your support. Thank you coach Simon for all the encouragement we needed to overcome the COVID-19 induced hardship. Go SF Hackers!
As the top-performing team, the SF Hackers is thrilled to become one of the 2021 FIRST LEGO League Qualcomm Grant recipients! The SF Hackers wants to thank Qualcomm for their support!
#QUALCOMMFORGOOD
#LAFLL
#SOCALFLL
#FIRSTINCA
#MAKEITLOUD
In the second round of LA regional final, our team scored the highest 515 points again.
We were so glad that our team was invited to Western Edge Invitational. Our first experience to compete teams from other regions and states. Sadly, our robot experienced gyro drifting problems during both runs and we scored a maximum of 320 points ranked at 10th place.
As always, we’d like to thank our parents, our teachers, and the FLL volunteers. Thank you for your support.
FISRT Lego League (FLL) 2019 City Shaper
FLL Team 44690 of Los Angeles FIRST Lego League was born in May 2019. Coach Simon recruited four of us (Justin, Michael, Terry, and William) to the team. We came up with the name, SF Hacker, for our team. SF stands for Smart Fashion because we love fashion. In August 2019, Peter joined our team.
It was our first year for FLL. We had to learn programming and robot building from scratch. Luckily, there were many good resources to learn from, such as the resources web page of Los Angeles Region FLL. During the summer break, we’ve completed beginner, intermediate, and some advanced ev3 lessons.
Our first year FLL journey was packed with fun, discoveries, innovations, and teamwork. We won the first place in robot performance and robot design and qualified for Los Angeles Regional championship games. Eventually we were forth place in robot performance and won Judge’s Award in the regional championship games. We want to thank our very supportive school (Valentine Elementary School), our STEM teacher Mrs. Wu, and our parents. We want to thank FIRST, judges, and volunteers. Thank you all.
In December 2019, we decided to launch RobotWonders.com website to document and share our FLL journey.
