Mission Machine Makers
Design a robot for the job, build it from scratch and test it in action.
About
Mission Machine Makers is an innovative team challenge in which every team designs and builds a robot made for a specific mission.
Teams receive a list of tasks their robot must complete, some competitive and some collaborative. Reading the tasks carefully at the start saves a lot of rebuilding later.
Teams then design their robot, matching the available components to the skills it needs. They choose motors, MDF chassis, covers, and electric and electronic parts to give their machine the best chance of success. Teams quickly learn that a simple, reliable design often beats a complicated one.
Once built, each robot is put through its trials to see whether it can complete its task. Finally, all teams gather to watch each other’s creations in action and celebrate every robot that rises to the challenge.
Learning outcomes
Mission Machine Makers develops discussion, planning and decision-making from the moment teams start sketching ideas for their robot. Early discussions often reveal hidden engineering talent in unexpected places.
Creative thinking and resource management come into play as teams decide how to make their robot stand out with the parts available. Every component choice is a trade-off, so teams must listen to different ideas and agree quickly.
Building and trialing teaches design thinking. Teams test what works, improve their robot step by step and treat a failed trial as useful information rather than a setback.
The finished robot is proof of innovation, creativity and, above all, effective teamwork. Watching every team's machine take on its task leaves the whole group curious, inspired and proud.
Program flow
-
The mission
Teams receive the tasks their robot must complete, both competitive and collaborative.
-
Design
Teams match the available components to the skills their robot will need.
-
Build
Teams assemble motors, chassis, covers and electronics into a working robot.
-
Trial runs
Each robot is tested on its task, and teams make improvements.
-
Showcase
All teams gather to watch every robot in action and celebrate.
What is included
Included
- Experienced hosts to run the program
- Robot components and building kits
- Tools and task setups
- Trial and showcase area
- Scoring and results
Not included
- Venue hire
- Food and drinks
- AV equipment
- Transportation to and from the venue
- Printing of custom materials
Frequently asked questions
What group size works best?
Anything from 10 to 500 guests, split into smaller teams.
How much time should we set aside?
Plan for around 2.5 hours.
Do we need engineering or coding skills?
No. Teams choose ready-made components, and the challenge is about planning and teamwork.
Where can it be held?
Indoors or outdoors, whichever suits your venue and the weather on the day.
What kind of tasks do the robots do?
A mix of competitive and collaborative tasks, set at the start of the challenge.
Cobot Coding Challenge
Build a robot, code its moves and compete for the top technology prize.
Wildlife Haven Builders
Earn the materials, build homes for wildlife and give them to the community.
Giant Marionette Crew
Nine controls, one giant puppet and a team that has to move as one.
Request a quote for Mission Machine Makers
Tell us your group size, date and goals. We will reply with a tailored proposal.