Quick Summary: Field-centric drive in FTC uses an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) to track the robot’s heading and rotate joystick inputs so that movement stays aligned with the field instead of the robot’s orientation. This guide walks through how to program field-centric drive using joystick inputs, IMU heading data, coordinate rotation, and mecanum drive equations. If you want to learn … Read More
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Quick Summary: International competitors gathered in Jamaica for a five-day robotics training camp designed to prepare them for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. In partnership with Studica Robotics, the program focused on Autonomous Mobile Robotics (AMR) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), combining hands-on robot and drone training with real-world competition preparation. Participants progressed from system setup and assembly to programming, testing, and … Read More
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Quick Summary: Field-centric drive is a control system commonly used in FTC mecanum drivetrains that keeps robot movement aligned to the field instead of the robot’s orientation. Unlike robot-centric drive, drivers do not need to mentally adjust controls when the robot rotates. This article explains what field-centric drive is, how it works, the math behind it, and common considerations teams should understand … Read More
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Quick Summary: The FTC Starter Bot Build Guide is a preseason robotics learning tool designed to help rookie and developing FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) teams build foundational engineering skills before the 2026-2027 season kickoff. It introduces drivetrain design, wiring, CAD, and mechanical assembly using FTC-style components so teams can enter the season more prepared and confident. Get Ready with the … Read More
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Quick Summary: The STEM Mechanics kit from fischertechnik Education helps students explore mechanics, statics, and physics through hands-on engineering activities. Featuring more than 30 models, the kit introduces concepts such as gears, pulleys, force equilibrium, bridge structures, and real-world mechanical systems while supporting problem-solving, teamwork, and STEM skill development. STEM Mechanics Sparks Curiosity ☑️ How does a planetary gear work? … Read More
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Quick Summary: This article walks FTC teams through everything needed to program a mecanum drivebase using the FTC Drive Base Kit from Studica Robotics. You’ll learn how mecanum wheels work, how to configure motors in the Driver Hub, build a working TeleOp program, create a basic autonomous routine, and improve performance through tuning techniques like dead zones and input scaling. … Read More
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Quick Summary: Out-of-school-time (OST) programs play a key role in expanding student access to hands-on STEM learning beyond the classroom. While funding can feel like a barrier, support is available through federal, state, local, and community pathways that help make OST programming more accessible. With hands-on learning solutions from fischertechnik Education, schools and organizations can deliver engaging skills-focused STEM experiences … Read More
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Quick Summary: The countdown is on for the FIRST® Championship 2026. Teams from around the world are heading to Houston for this global robotics event featuring FTC DECODE™ and FRC REBUILT™, bringing together thousands of students, mentors, and innovators. This is where the FIRST® AGE™ season comes to life. Welcome to FIRST® Championship 2026 The energy is building, the robots are … Read More
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