Your sumobot is powered by a small microcontroller called an Arduino.
Install arduino IDE (use installer, not Windows Universal App if you intend to develop in VSCode) https://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/Software
Open IDE, Tools -> Manage Libraries; Search for Zumo and add Zumo Shield library. Alternatively, include only the files you need from the github https://github.com/pololu/zumo-shield-arduino-library
To upload code to sumobot: Connect bot to computer via usb In IDE -> Tools set Board to Arduino/Genuino Uno set Tools -> Port to the COM port that looks right :)
If using VS Code, follow the steps here: https://www.dmcinfo.com/latest-thinking/blog/id/9484/arduino-programming-with-vscode
Upload a blink.ino script from examples or another script to act as a hello world, and validate that the board responds.
Upgrading Sumobot Hardware (Optional) Teams can modify the I/O sensors used in the bot. By default, the bots have 6 downward facing reflection detectors. This can be reduced to 4 detectors, opening up 2 I/O ports for use with IR rangefinders. https://www.pololu.com/docs/0J57/2.c (requires soldering and board modification, don't be intimidated, this is what the Garage is for!)
Teams can modify the motors to lower/higher torque and higher/lower speeds, or modify the wheels.
Robots need to be autonomous. No R/C robots.
A robot may expand in size after a match begins, but must not physically separate into pieces, and must remain a single centralized robot.
No weapons or jamming devices.
Jamming devices, such as IR LEDs intended to saturate the opponents IR sensors, are not allowed.
Devices that can store liquid, powder, gas or other substances for throwing at the opponent are not allowed.
Any flaming devices are not allowed.
Devices that throw things at your opponent are not allowed.
No sticky tires.
Sticky substances to improve traction are not allowed. Tires and other components of the robot in contact with the ring must not be able to pick up and hold a standard 3"x5" index card for more than two seconds
No vacuum devices.
The referee will call the start, upon which the competitor can activate the robot. The robot has to wait 5 seconds after being activated before it can start.
There are 3 rounds:
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robots facing each other
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robots pointing outwards
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robots pointing sideways in opposite directions
Winning robot is the one who was able to push its opponent out the ring at least 2 times out of 3 rounds.
Each round lasts maximally 3 minutes.
If both robots are stationary for 10 seconds, the robot who stopped moving first will be declared the loser of the match.
A sumo ring is a black circle (diameter 77 cm), with a white outer edge.