Running a competition requires several essential technologies and equipment to ensure smooth operations. See the Venue Selection, Facility Planning, & Field Layout article for more details on how to layout the equipment.
Here’s a breakdown of the suggested key components:
Field and Game Elements
- Teamwork and Skills Fields
- Aerial Drone Competitions: Each field uses a Field Element Kit and a Game Elements Kit. See this article for more information.
Field Electronics
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Display System (TV’s / Projectors): For displaying scores, rankings, match schedules, and announcements. Each display will need a RPi or laptop with a web browser connected to the internet. The devices do not need to be on the same network.
- Larger displays are preferred for Audience Displays, Pit Displays, Rankings, etc. These can be projectors/screens or larger TV’s.
- Smaller displays or individual laptops are recommended for field timers.
- HDMI Cords: For connecting devices (laptops, RPi’s) to TV’s or Projectors
- Extension cords and Power Strips: For powering field electronic devices, laptops, and charging areas for teams.
Scoring Tablets and Wireless Connectivity
- Stable Internet Connection: To run the Competition Portal application, live streams, update rankings, and share live results.
- Tablets (with Wi-Fi): For real-time scoring input by field referees and scorekeepers. Can also be used for field timers.
- Tablet Charging Station: For charging tablets overnight or at lunch (model will depend upon the tablet cord type.
- Dual Band Router Wi-Fi Network: Secure and reliable wireless connectivity to provide WiFi to devices using the Competition Portal. Consider a mesh WiFi network if the venue is large. This device must be connected to the internet. Or, if the venue has WiFi, the devices can directly connect to that network or an external network (i.e. phones).
- Network Switch: Extend the network to for more displays and other hard-wired devices, if needed.
- Ethernet Cables: For networking hard-wired devices (laptops, displays, RPis, etc.), if needed.
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Gaffers Tape: (optional) For securing wires
Computers with Web Browser
- Laptops: At least one, ideally more, to run the Competition Portal and handle administration. They can also be used for other remote displays. Devices will need a web browser for an Event Administrator to access the Competition Portal through RECFevents.org.
- Printer: At least one, ideally a monotone printer with a USB-style plug-in for quick printing for matches, judges reports, administrative tasks, and more.
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Raspberry Pis: One per field and one per display (laptops can be used instead of RPis). An SD card and SD card reader are required (included in this kit). More information on how to use RPis for displays can be found here.
Audio and Visual Equipment
- PA System: For announcements, match calls, and updates to keep teams informed.
- Computer speakers: Connected to the devices (Teamwork and Skills fields) to play match sounds. If your PA system can connect to your laptop, then these speakers are optional.
Live Streaming Equipment (optional)
- Streaming Setup: Includes cameras, capture cards, and software like OBS to live stream the event.
- Cameras: To stream matches or provide video replays for spectators or virtual audiences.
Disclaimer: The equipment mentioned above serves as examples of what may be needed to run a successful Aerial Drone Competition event. The Robotics Education & Competition (REC) Foundation does not endorse any specific brands, products, or equipment providers. Event organizers may choose the technology and brands that best fit their event's needs and resources, as long as they align with the competition's standards and requirements. This flexibility allows organizers to adapt their setups to available resources, ensuring a fair and consistent experience for all participating teams.