'Iobotics (Iolani's Robotics Team) competed in the VEX World Robotics Championships at California State University Northridge from May 1 to May 3.
The event brought together 91 top robotics teams from eight different countries. Over 1,000 students were in attendance. The 'Iobots team competed with and against the best robotics teams in the world.
Mark Williams '10, Amila Cooray '11 Cameron Dye '11 engaged in competition.
In the "Bridge Battle" game, each match paired two teams in an alliance against two other teams. The game required students put their engineering and strategic skills to the test as they aimed to build the most innovative robots possible prior to the competition and then to use strategy, computer programming, and technical adjustments to obtain the most points possible during the competition.
Although the 'Iobots did not place, the first-year rookie team built a robust, reliable robot that held its own against the best in the world. Team members also talked and worked with other students from a variety of backgrounds.
Members of the 'Iobots at the competition included Amila Cooray '11, Cameron Dye '11, Lauren Faris '11, Josh Whiteley '11, and Mark Williams '10.
Also at the competition were 'Iolani Physics teacher Mr. Frederick Heyler and 'Iolani parent Joe Whiteley.
Although they did not attend the competition, Sean Cockey '10, Emily Cockey '11, and Biology teacher Dr. Lara Lee provided invaluable support and guidance in building the robot and preparing for the trip.
On Sunday before returning to Hawaii, the 'Iobots team attended Jet Propulsion Laboratory's once-a -year Open House. They met leading space scientists, saw the next Mars lander being fabricated, watched prototype exploration robots in operation, and previewed upcoming space missions.
Frederick Heyler, 'Iolani Physics teacher, noted that "the team's exceptional demeanor, teamwork, and sense of fun made me very proud to be a part of the 'Iolani family."
From left: Cameron Dye '11, Mark Williams '10, Josh Whiteley '11, Mr. Frederick Heyler, Lauren Faris '11, and Amila Cooray '11 with the robot at the competition.
