SPOT CHALLENGE

🎯 Overview

• In this challenge, students explore the fundamentals of electronics, sensors, and hardware design. They create functioning projects using components like LEDs, resistors, and microcontrollers, gaining practical knowledge of how real-world electronics power modern technology.

🧑💻 Participation

• Group Event – Two participants per team.
• Categories:
• Junior Division: Grade 6 to Grade 8
• Senior Division: Grade 9 to Grade 12
• Open to students with basic knowledge of Arduino programming and electronics.

🛠️ Hardware & Tools

Provided on the Spot:

• 1 × Arduino UNO (or compatible board)
• Standard sensors and modules (e.g., IR, Ultrasonic, Temperature, Servo, Buzzer, LEDs, etc.)

To Be Brought by Participants:

• Laptop with pre-installed Arduino IDE or PictoBlox
• Breadboard, jumper wires, batteries
• Basic tools: screwdriver, wire cutter/stripper, tape, glue, etc.

⏱️ Time Limit

• Total Duration: 30 minutes will be provided for programming and hardware construction.

💻 Coding Options

Participants may choose between:

• Block-based coding (e.g., Scratch / PictoBlox)
• Text-based coding (Arduino C/C++ using Arduino IDE)

🎮 Challenge Format

• The title and task will be announced at the start of the event.
• Possible challenge themes may include:
• Sensor activation logic
• Automation tasks
• Object detection
• Light or sound control
• Judges will evaluate the project based on accuracy, functionality, and timing.

🏆 Winner Criteria

• The team that successfully completes the challenge in the shortest time will be declared the winner.
• Credits: Within 15 minutes – 100 points; within 20 minutes – 75 points; within 25 minutes – 50 points; above 25 minutes – 25 points.
• In case of a tie, code efficiency will serve as tiebreakers.
• Again, in case of a tie code efficiency & output accuracy will be used as tiebreakers
• If both code efficiency and output accuracy are tied, Explanation and presentation will be used as the final tiebreaker.

🚫 Disqualification Rules

• Using external help or copying code from any source.
• Unsafe circuit design or mishandling of hardware.
• Bringing pre-coded programs or pre-wired setups to the venue.
• In case of any disrespectful or rude behavior towards judges or referees or other participants, the team will be disqualified.

✅ General Instructions

• All work must be done entirely on the spot.
• Participants must ensure their laptops and tools are ready before the challenge begins
• Judges’ decisions are final and binding.