The 2024 FRC Game Manual is a comprehensive guide for teams, outlining rules, arena layout, scoring, and robot construction for the Crescendo game, presented by Haas.
1.1 Game Reveal and Kickoff
The 2024 FRC Game Manual was unveiled during the FIRST Robotics Competition Kickoff on Saturday, January 6, 2024. This event marked the official reveal of the 2024 game, Crescendo, presented by Haas. Teams worldwide gathered to watch the game reveal, which outlined the rules, objectives, and gameplay mechanics. During the kickoff, teams received essential materials, including the game manual and specific resources to guide their robot design and strategy. The event also provided an overview of the arena layout, scoring criteria, and key challenges for the season. This kickoff served as the starting point for teams to begin their build season, preparing for regional and district competitions leading up to the FIRST Championship in late April 2024.
1.2 Overview of the 2024 Game, Crescendo
Crescendo, the 2024 FRC game, is a dynamic and strategic challenge that blends elements from past games with new twists. Teams must design robots capable of collecting and delivering game pieces to specific zones on a multifaceted arena. The game emphasizes teamwork, precision, and adaptability, with evolving gameplay throughout each match. The arena features multiple scoring areas, where points are earned based on the placement and quantity of game pieces. Crescendo challenges teams to balance autonomous and teleoperated strategies, with bonus points for efficient performance. This game remixes familiar mechanics with innovative elements, creating an engaging experience for participants and spectators alike, while ensuring a fair and structured competition.
1.3 Key Features and Objectives
The 2024 FRC game, Crescendo, features dynamic gameplay with strategic objectives. Key elements include collecting and delivering game pieces to specific zones, navigating arena obstacles like ramps and barriers, and optimizing autonomous and teleoperated phases. Teams earn bonus points for efficient autonomous actions and coordinated defense strategies. The game emphasizes adaptability, with evolving challenges that require quick decision-making. Robots must balance mobility, precision, and strength to excel in various scoring scenarios. Safety protocols and fair play are central, with penalties for interference or unsportsmanlike conduct. Crescendo challenges teams to master both technical and strategic skills, ensuring an engaging and competitive experience for all participants.
Arena Layout and Gameplay Details
Crescendo features a dynamic arena with strategic zones for collecting and delivering game pieces, emphasizing mobility and precision. The layout includes ramps, barriers, and scoring areas.
2.1 Field Design and Zones
The 2024 FRC field, Crescendo, is designed with multiple zones for strategic gameplay. Teams collect and deliver game pieces to designated areas, with ramps and barriers adding complexity. The arena layout emphasizes mobility and precision, offering bonus points for specific zones. Robots start in designated areas and must navigate the field to achieve objectives. The field’s design encourages alliances to work together, optimizing scoring during both autonomous and teleoperated phases. The manual provides detailed dimensions and markings, ensuring consistency across competitions. Visual guides help teams understand the layout, while nominal dimensions allow for minor variations. Exact measurements are available in official drawings for precise robot design.
2.2 Gameplay Mechanics and Dynamics
The 2024 FRC game, Crescendo, features dynamic gameplay mechanics that challenge teams to adapt and strategize. Matches begin with an autonomous phase, where robots operate independently, scoring points through pre-programmed actions. This is followed by the teleoperated phase, where drivers control the robots to collect and deliver game pieces to scoring zones. The game dynamics emphasize teamwork, with alliances working together to maximize points. Strategic elements include navigating field obstacles and using power-ups to enhance scoring opportunities. The evolving nature of gameplay requires teams to adjust their strategies mid-match, ensuring continuous engagement and competition. The combination of autonomous precision and human-driven adaptability creates a thrilling experience, testing both technical skill and collaborative execution.
2.3 Strategic Elements and Challenges
The 2024 FRC game, Crescendo, introduces strategic elements that require teams to balance speed, precision, and adaptability. Key challenges include optimizing autonomous routines for maximum points and effectively coordinating with alliance partners during teleoperated play. Teams must navigate field obstacles, such as ramps and barriers, while managing game piece collection and delivery. Strategic decisions involve choosing when to focus on high-value zones versus maintaining a steady score flow. Additionally, teams must adapt to dynamic conditions, such as power-ups and opponent actions, to maintain a competitive edge. These challenges demand innovative solutions, precise execution, and effective communication between team members to secure victory. The game’s complexity ensures that strategy plays a pivotal role in determining match outcomes.
Scoring Criteria and Point Allocation
Points are awarded for collecting and delivering game pieces to designated zones, with bonuses for autonomous actions and strategic defensive plays, emphasizing alliance coordination and precision.
3.1 Point Allocation for Game Actions
Points in the 2024 FRC game, Crescendo, are allocated based on specific actions and achievements during matches. Teams earn points for collecting and delivering game pieces to designated zones, with higher-value pieces awarding more points. Autonomous actions, such as scoring during the autonomous phase, grant additional points for precision and strategy. Defensive plays, like blocking opponents, can also yield points or nullify opponents’ scoring attempts. The point system encourages teamwork, as alliances work together to maximize their collective score. Bonus points are awarded for meeting specific criteria, such as completing challenges or achieving strategic objectives. The manual outlines exact point values for each action, ensuring clarity and fairness in scoring. This system promotes strategic gameplay and incentivizes both individual and collaborative efforts.
3.2 Bonus Points and Multipliers
Bonus points and multipliers in the 2024 FRC game, Crescendo, reward teams for exceptional performance and strategic execution. Bonus points are awarded for achieving specific objectives, such as completing autonomous routines, successfully defending against opponents, or meeting match-specific challenges. Multipliers amplify point values for actions performed during critical phases of the game, such as during the final moments of a match or for coordinated alliance efforts. For example, a multiplier may increase the points awarded for delivering game pieces to high-value zones. The manual details the conditions for earning bonuses and applying multipliers, ensuring teams can strategize effectively to maximize their scores. These incentives encourage innovation, teamwork, and adaptability, making the game more dynamic and competitive.
3.3 Penalty Rules and Deductions
The 2024 FRC game manual outlines penalty rules to maintain fair play and sportsmanship. Penalties are imposed for actions such as exceeding time limits, robot interference, or unsportsmanlike conduct. Minor penalties result in point deductions, while major violations may lead to disqualification. Repeat offenses escalate consequences, reflecting the importance of adherence to rules. Penalties are tracked throughout the match and can significantly impact a team’s final score. The manual specifies scenarios that warrant penalties, ensuring consistency in enforcement. Teams must avoid prohibited actions to maintain eligibility for awards and advancement. Understanding these rules is crucial for competing fairly and strategically in Crescendo.
Robot Construction Guidelines
The 2024 FRC Game Manual provides detailed construction rules to ensure fairness and safety. Robots must weigh under 150 pounds, fit within a 30x30x60-inch envelope, and use approved materials. Design and functionality must prioritize safety, with prohibited items like pyrotechnics and sharp edges strictly banned. Electrical and pneumatic systems must meet specified limits, and software must use approved libraries. These guidelines ensure robots are durable, efficient, and compliant for competition, fostering innovation within established constraints. Teams must adhere to these rules for eligibility and inspection approval.
4.1 Design and Build Rules
The 2024 FRC Game Manual outlines specific design and build rules to ensure robot safety and fairness. Robots must not exceed 150 pounds and must fit within a 30x30x60-inch envelope. Teams must use approved materials and components, avoiding prohibited items such as pyrotechnics or sharp edges. Electrical systems must comply with voltage limits, and pneumatic systems require proper pressure ratings. Software must be programmed using approved libraries, and all mechanisms should ensure operator and spectator safety. These rules ensure fair competition and protect participants. Teams are encouraged to design robots that are durable, efficient, and innovative while adhering to these guidelines. Proper documentation, including a Bill of Materials, is required for inspection and eligibility.
4.2 Weight and Dimension Limits
The 2024 FRC Game Manual specifies strict weight and dimension limits for robots to ensure safety and fair competition. Robots must weigh under 150 pounds and fit within a 30x30x60-inch envelope. These dimensions are nominal, and teams must refer to official drawings for exact measurements and tolerances. The manual emphasizes that robots exceeding these limits will not pass inspection and will be ineligible to compete. Teams must carefully design their robots to meet these constraints while maintaining functionality and performance. Adhering to these limits ensures consistency across competitions and promotes fair play among all teams. Proper planning and precise measurements are crucial to comply with these rules and avoid disqualification.
4.3 Banned Materials and Components
The 2024 FRC Game Manual prohibits the use of certain materials and components to ensure safety and fairness. Teams are restricted from using pyrotechnics, sharp edges, and any components that pose a hazard to participants or spectators. Additionally, materials like unauthorized pneumatics or high-pressure systems are banned. Robots must not incorporate prohibited electrical components, such as unapproved batteries or voltage-exceeding devices. The manual also emphasizes that any component deemed unsafe or non-compliant will result in inspection failure. Teams must use approved materials and components to pass inspections and maintain eligibility for competition. Adherence to these rules ensures a safe and equitable environment for all participants. Proper material selection is crucial for compliance and successful competition.
Safety Protocols and Precautions
The 2024 FRC Safety Manual outlines essential protocols for personal protective equipment, proper robot handling, and emergency procedures to ensure a safe environment during competitions and practices.
5.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The 2024 FRC Safety Manual mandates the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to ensure participant safety during robot construction and competition. Teams must wear safety glasses with side shields or goggles during machining, drilling, and grinding. Close-toed shoes and long pants are required in the pit and on the field. Gloves are recommended for handling tools and heavy components. Additional PPE, such as face shields or respirators, may be necessary for specific tasks. All PPE must meet ANSI or equivalent safety standards. Proper use of PPE is enforced to minimize risks and prevent injuries, ensuring a safe environment for all participants.
5.2 Emergency Procedures and Response Plans
The 2024 FRC Safety Manual outlines detailed emergency procedures and response plans to ensure quick and effective action during incidents. Teams must establish a clear communication plan, including contact information for local emergency services. In case of injuries, a first aid kit must be readily available, and trained personnel should be present at all events. Fire extinguishers and evacuation routes must be clearly marked, with regular drills conducted to prepare participants. The manual also outlines protocols for equipment malfunctions or arena hazards, emphasizing immediate reporting to event staff. Teams are required to review and practice these procedures during pre-season training to ensure preparedness. These plans are designed to minimize risks and ensure a swift, organized response to any situation, prioritizing the safety of all participants. Proper execution of these protocols is mandatory for all FRC events.
5.3 Safe Robot Handling and Operation
The 2024 FRC Safety Manual emphasizes the importance of safe robot handling and operation to protect participants and ensure a secure environment. Teams must adhere to strict protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and gloves when handling robots. Proper lifting techniques are required to avoid injuries, and only authorized personnel should operate robots during competitions and practices. Operators must undergo training to understand robot functionality and emergency shutdown procedures. Regular inspections of robots are mandatory to identify and address potential hazards. Additionally, teams are responsible for ensuring robots are securely transported and stored to prevent accidents. Compliance with these guidelines is critical to maintaining a safe and injury-free competition environment for all participants.
Inspection and Eligibility Criteria
Robots must pass mechanical, electrical, and software inspections to ensure compliance with safety and rule standards. Documentation, including a Bill of Materials, is required for eligibility.
6.1 Mechanical and Electrical Inspections
Mechanical and electrical inspections ensure robots comply with safety and rule standards. Inspectors verify weight limits, dimensional requirements, and prohibited materials. Electrical systems must meet voltage and power limits, while pneumatic systems require proper pressure ratings. All moving parts must be securely guarded, and emergency stops must function correctly. Teams must provide detailed documentation, including a Bill of Materials, to confirm compliance. Any issues identified during inspection must be addressed before the robot is deemed eligible for competition. These inspections are critical to ensuring fair and safe participation in the 2024 FRC season.
6.2 Software and Documentation Requirements
Software and documentation requirements ensure transparency and compliance with competition rules. Teams must submit detailed software documentation, including source code and explanations of autonomous functions. All code must be programmed using approved libraries and tools. Additionally, teams are required to provide a comprehensive Bill of Materials, detailing every component used in the robot’s construction. Documentation must also include proof of compliance with weight and dimensional limits. Properly formatted and submitted documentation is essential for passing inspections and ensuring eligibility for competition. These requirements promote fairness and accountability, allowing judges and inspectors to verify adherence to the 2024 FRC rules and regulations effectively.
6.3 Eligibility Criteria for Competition
Eligibility for competition is determined by successfully passing all inspections and meeting the criteria outlined in the 2024 FRC Game Manual. Robots must pass mechanical, electrical, and software inspections to ensure compliance with safety and rule standards. Teams must also submit complete and accurate documentation, including a Bill of Materials and proof of compliance with weight and dimensional limits. Additionally, teams must adhere to all game-specific rules and demonstrate proper functionality during practice matches. Failure to meet any of these criteria may result in disqualification or restrictions on competition participation. Eligibility is verified by event inspectors, ensuring fair and safe competition for all teams.
2024 FRC Season Schedule
The 2024 FRC season kicked off on January 6, 2024, with regional and district competitions in March and April, culminating in the FIRST Championship in late April 2024.
7.1 Regional and District Competitions
Regional and District Competitions form the foundation of the 2024 FRC season, taking place in March and April. These events bring together teams from specific regions to compete, showcasing their robots and teamwork. Each competition follows strict rules, emphasizing fair play, sportsmanship, and safety protocols. Teams earn points based on their performance, which determines their eligibility for higher-level competitions. The events provide valuable experience and feedback, helping teams refine their strategies and prepare for the challenges ahead. By competing at these tournaments, teams demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and STEM excellence, setting the stage for the FIRST Championship.
7.2 FIRST Championship Details
The FIRST Championship is the pinnacle of the 2024 FRC season, held in late April 2024. It gathers approximately 600 top teams worldwide for intense competition. The event features multiple divisions, showcasing innovation and STEM excellence. Teams compete in high-stakes matches, with the winning alliance crowned champions. The championship also includes the Innovation Fair and FIRST Hall of Fame, celebrating creativity and outstanding contributions. Safety protocols and rules are strictly enforced, ensuring a fair environment. For exact dates, location, and event rules, refer to the official 2024 FRC Championship webpage. This event culminates the season, highlighting teamwork, engineering prowess, and the spirit of FIRST.
7.3 Important Deadlines and Milestones
The 2024 FRC season includes critical deadlines to ensure teams stay on track. The Kickoff on January 6, 2024, marked the official start, with the stop-build day in late February 2024. Regional and district competitions occur in March and April, leading to the FIRST Championship in late April. Teams must submit award applications and eligibility documents by specific deadlines to qualify for events. Robot inspections and final submissions for competition must also meet designated cutoffs. Adhering to these milestones is essential for participation and compliance with competition rules. Missing deadlines may result in penalties or disqualification, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and timely submissions throughout the season.
Resources and Support
The 2024 FRC Game Manual and updates are available online, alongside team resources, tools, and community support, including workshops and guides to help teams succeed effectively.
8.1 Official Game Manual and Updates
The 2024 FRC Game Manual is the primary resource for teams, detailing game rules, arena layout, scoring, and robot construction guidelines. It was first released during the January 6, 2024, kickoff event, where teams learned about the new game, Crescendo, presented by Haas. The manual is available online through the official FIRST website and is regularly updated to reflect rule changes or clarifications. Teams can access the latest version via frc.link/d/year or through the Resource Hub. Updates are communicated through the FIRST Team Updates system, ensuring all teams stay informed. The manual serves as the definitive guide for competition preparation, ensuring fairness and clarity for all participants.
8.2 Team Resources and Tools
Teams participating in the 2024 FRC season have access to a variety of resources and tools to support their preparation and competition. The official FIRST Resource Hub offers a wealth of materials, including game-specific guides, scoring calculators, and printable sheets. Additionally, tools like scoring calculators help teams strategize and understand point allocations. The Compass Alliance provides shared resources and knowledge, fostering collaboration among teams. Online platforms such as frcteamadvocate.firstinspires.org and community-driven websites offer unofficial tools, including game test quizzes and laser-cut robot parts. These resources aim to enhance team performance, clarify game rules, and provide practical support throughout the season. By leveraging these tools, teams can optimize their strategies, improve robot design, and stay competitive in the Crescendo game.
8.3 Community Support and Workshops
The 2024 FRC season emphasizes community support and educational resources to help teams excel. Workshops and webinars are organized to provide hands-on training, covering topics like robot design, programming, and game strategy. FIRST collaborates with industry partners, such as Qualcomm, to offer insights into cutting-edge technologies like 5G and AI. Additionally, online forums and mentorship programs connect teams with experienced professionals, fostering knowledge sharing. Safety training and emergency response workshops are also available to ensure teams adhere to safety protocols. These resources aim to empower teams to innovate, adapt, and succeed in the Crescendo game while building a strong, supportive community. By participating, teams gain the tools and confidence needed to excel in the competition.
The 2024 FRC Game Manual provides a clear roadmap for teams, ensuring a fair and strategic competition. Crescendo challenges innovation, collaboration, and adaptability, fostering STEM excellence globally.
9.1 Summary of Key Points
The 2024 FRC Game Manual introduces Crescendo, presented by Haas, with detailed rules for arena layout, gameplay mechanics, and scoring criteria. Teams must design robots adhering to specific construction guidelines, including weight and dimension limits. Safety protocols and inspections ensure compliance and fairness. The manual outlines penalties, bonus points, and strategic elements to enhance gameplay dynamics. Regional and district competitions lead to the FIRST Championship, with key deadlines and milestones guiding team preparation. Resources, including the official manual and team tools, support participants in mastering the game. Crescendo emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and adaptability, providing a comprehensive framework for a successful and engaging competition season.