Richmond Area Bot Instigated Destruction

Empowering Minds, Building Bots: Richmond's Non-Profit Advancing Education and Engineering through Combat Robotics.

About Us

Empowering Minds, Igniting Passion: RABID, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of learners across all ages, where education meets innovation. Our mission is to support and inspire individuals to explore the realms of engineering and creativity through the exciting world of robotics. By providing accessible resources, mentorship, and collaborative platforms, we aim to cultivate a diverse and inclusive space where people of all ages can learn, create, and engage in the thrilling journey of building and battling robots. Together, we strive to unleash the potential within each participant, fostering a lifelong love for learning and a passion for pushing the boundaries of technological exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • WHAT IS A COMBAT ROBOT?
    Combat robots are machines designed to destroy each other in an attempt to be the best. Battlebots is one of the most well known examples of combat robotics in the US. They fight 250lb robots with weapons up to 60lbs spinning as fast as 250mph.

  • WHAT IS AN INSECT WEIGHT COMBAT ROBOT?
    Insect weight combat robots are small, more budget friendly bots that are more accessible to everyone. They are split up into 150g fairyweights, 1lb antweights, and 3lb beetleweight classes. One thing to note, is these are the US weight classes. In the UK and many other places 150g bots are called antweights. The smaller sizes allow for smaller arenas and cheaper parts, without taking away from any of the carnage.

  • SO HOW DO I START?
    One of the best ways to start is in the 1-pound 3D printed class. These bots use 3D printed parts to form the bodies and weapons, keeping the cost low. If something breaks a new one can be printed instead of machined. The electronics are also generally widely available as drone parts. Generally the radio will be the most expensive part of the robot. The good news is, one radio can be used for multiple bots, just not at the same time. Feel free to join our discord server so we can help you out!

Current Rules 

  • We follow a modified SPARC ruleset borrowed from our friends at MACRO. Download the PDF HERE! Below is a summary of these rules.
  • Approved materials are printed PET, PETG, ABS, PLA, PLA+, and TPU.
  • Motors, wheels, fasteners, and electronics do not need to be printed, but must not be a significant structural part of the bot.
  • Any non printed parts should not be exposed in a way that they can be hit, or hit another bot. The bot should be as much 3d printed as possible.
  • True walkers using no continuous rotational movement for locomotion (this includes things like vibration motors) will get a full weight bonus (908g)
  • Shufflers will get a half weight bonus (681g)
  • Batteries should be protected at all times. If a battery becomes exposed during the fight, the match is over. The bot with the exposed battery loses. Take care when charging batteries and charge them in Lipo bags.
  • Bots will be given up to 20 minutes minutes between fights for repairs. Later in the day we may need to be strict on this time, so please work with us.
  • There will only be 1 attempt at an unstick and only if both bots are stuck. If they cannot be unstuck or get stuck again, the match will go to the judges.
  • No heat, fire, smoke, entanglement, or other weapons that do not fit the spirit of the rules.
  • If you have any rules questions please contact us BEFORE the event.'

Events

Click here to find out more about our events!
Merch

Show your support by ordering some RABID gear! Check out the link below.

Merch Link
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Inspire Innovation

Embark on an electrifying journey with RABID! Ignite your passion for robotics and education by supporting us today. Join our mission to empower minds, foster innovation, and make a lasting impact in the thrilling world of combat robotics.

Donate
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Supporters

A big thanks to all of our supporters! Check them out!
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ITGRESA Robotics
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TURNABOT

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Team Malice
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BuildRVA
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NHRL
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MACROBot
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Unlock your CAD and 3D printing potential with CADclass! The courses cover Fusion 360, TinkerCAD, and 3D printing. Get an exclusive 10% discount using code 'RABIDRVA' at checkout, and remember, any purchases made using our discount code help us continue to put on events in the Richmond area. Explore 'Mastering Fusion 360,' '3D Printing Masterclass,' 'Cura 3D Printing,' and more. Plus, enjoy a free trial. Elevate your skills and thanks to CADclass for this discount!

Click here to check out CADclass!

Connect With Us!


Join our discord server to discuss the next event or check out our current bot builds. Fill out the form at the link below to get in contact!

Sign up for our mailing list or message us HERE!