2009 Overview

After six weeks of grueling late nights, extreme commitment, and truckloads of soda, the entire year of preparation paid off. The Robotics team constructed a simple but gnarly design that stomped the competition both at Purdue and Chicago, resulting in a third and second place. Throughout the year, several trials were conducted. But usual methods were thrown out the window. This year's team had an extra challenge; when the floor on which their robot was to perform and the competition-mandated wheels made contact, friction was dramatically reduced - it simulated being on the moon. The team put their heads together though. The software experts, Evan Hissey, Blake Disselberger, and Alex Mirowski, programmed the robot to move quickly and efficiently. "An interesting feature," said Mirowski, "is the sensor that vibrates the control board to tell our driver that he is losing friction. It's like a video game controller." That sort of innovation was what set the Black Knights apart from their contenders. Placing SECOND at Nationals in Atlanta proved that the teachings of Jim Langfeldt, the assistance of adult mentors, and the dedication of all Robotics students created the perfect formula for a great success.