Learn, Build and Compete: An Aquatic Robot-Fish Challenge

Abstract

The e-Yantra project at IIT Bombay conducts an online competition, e-Yantra Robotics Competition (eYRC) [1] that teaches robotics concepts scalably through a 6-month long competition. 25000+ students participated in the competition where each year we teach a variety of skills using a gamified way known as a theme. Around 800+ students participated in a theme called “Patrol Fish”, an underwater theme. The motive of the theme was to teach bio-inspired design skills to a large number irrespective of engineering background. The main features of this theme were 3D CAD modelling, waterproofing, material selection, fabrication, stability and maneuverability of the robot-fish, 3D printing, PCB designing and electronics. In this paper, we describe the methodology of training a massive cohort of 203 teams (812 students) in complex concepts such as Product Design and Development via remote guidance and feedback in a gamified competitive environment.