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!
  • WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?
    Come check out an event, chat with us on Discord or check out our Combat Robotics Resource List!

Robot Construction Rules

  • We follow a modified SPARC robot construction ruleset mostly  borrowed from our friends at MACRO. Download the RABID Construction Guidelines here! A few of these rules are outlined here.
  • Safety First: All robots must comply with safety inspections and failsafe.
  • Weight Classes: Robots are categorized by weight, with bonuses for shufflers, walkers, and non-traditional designs.
  • Weapon Restrictions: Internal combustion engines, fire, heat, smoke, and projectile weapons are prohibited. Weapons must have locking mechanisms when not in the arena.
  • Mobility Standards: Robots must have controlled and visible movement (e.g., wheels, walkers, or alternative systems like hovercrafts).
  • Autonomous Robots: Autonomous systems get a weight bonus but must have onboard sensors and fail-safes to ensure safe operation.
  • Material Use: Approved materials for Plastic Antweights are printed PET, PETG, ABS, ASA, PLA, PLA+, TPU and TPE.
  • Prohibited Tactics: No entangling materials, RF jamming, electrical interference, or destructive substances like liquids, powders, or sand.
  • Builder Responsibility: All designs must be cleared with event organizers to ensure compliance and fairness. If you have any rules questions please contact us BEFORE the event.

Match Rules

  • We follow a SPARC Match Rules. Download SPARC Match Rules here! A few of these rules are outlined here.
  • Match Duration: Matches are typically 3 minutes long. If both robots remain active, the winner is decided by a judges' decision.
  • Battery Protection: Batteries must remain protected at all times. If a battery is exposed during the match, the robot with the exposed battery loses immediately.
  • Pinning Limit: Robots may pin their opponent for up to 5 seconds. Afterward, they must release and separate.
  • Countdown for Immobility: If a robot ceases controlled movement, a 10-second countdown will begin. Failure to move within this time results in a knockout.
  • "Arena is a Hazard" Rule: If a robot becomes stuck and cannot free itself, it will be considered immobile and counted out.
  • Stuck Robots: If two robots are stuck together, the match will be paused. Attempts will be made to separate them safely. If unsticking is not possible or they get stuck again, the match will end, and the decision will go to the judges.
  • Driver Tap-Out: Drivers may forfeit the match by tapping out.
  • Judging is based on Damage (4 points) and Engagement (5 points). Damage evaluates harm to a robot's mobility, weapons, or structure, while Engagement rewards robots that actively attack, control, and dictate the match's flow. Download the SPARC Judging Guidelines here!
  • Get Prepared: Join our Discord to ask questions and ensure your robot is event-ready!

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.

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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!