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As FTC teams dove INTO THE DEEP℠, exploring the mysteries of the ocean, we at Studica Robotics were equally immersed—in innovation, creativity, and the incredible energy of teams at the 2025 FIRST® Championship. From April 16–19, Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center buzzed with more than 50,000 students, mentors, and STEM advocates, making this the largest youth robotics event in the world—and we were thrilled to be there.

Trends from the 2025 FIRST Championship

A clear trend emerged in the FTC pits: teams are eager to evolve. Many visited the Studica Robotics booth, intrigued by our structural system, especially the unique design. Regardless of their current platform, teams were seeking performance, customization, and character in their builds.

Our structure components are made from 3mm thick 6061-T6 aluminum, anodized for durability and safety. Thanks to a universal hole pattern and support for positioning at 16 angles, our system offers maximum flexibility and fast integration with other parts with no machining required.

3D Printing: The Secret Weapon

We noticed how critical 3D printing has become. Whether to stretch tight budgets or create custom solutions, teams use it to enhance components like our slide rails that are ideal for lift and extension systems. With downloadable 3D STEP files, we empower teams to seamlessly integrate our hardware into their designs.

What Impressed Us Most

Autonomous programming stood out, with teams achieving incredible precision. Our Cypher Max Encoder drew interest for its high-resolution tracking and dual output, perfect for advanced odometry and localization strategies.

We also had great conversations with mentors from FRC and FLL programs exploring how to start new FTC teams. Many were excited to discover that Studica Robotics offers a competition-ready, scalable platform that’s both robust and easy to use.

Ready to Start an FTC Team?

Now’s the perfect time! Registration for the new FIRST Tech Challenge DECODE™ season opens Wednesday, May 14th - Learn more.

FTC welcomes students ages 12–18 (grades 7–12) to design, build, and program robots for thrilling head-to-head competition. The DECODE™ season, presented by RTX, officially begins on September 6, 2025.

Studica Robotics Booth Highlights

Here are the components that generated the most buzz at the FTC Robot Service Center at the 2025 FIRST Championship:

• Slide Rails – Smooth linear motion for lifts and arms, also compatible with custom 3D prints.
• Intake Hub Kit – Versatile intake solutions for FTC game elements.
• Servo Power Block – Safe, regulated servo power for high-demand builds.
• FTC Power Block – Centralized, competition-legal power distribution.
• 12V 3000mAh Battery Pack – Lightweight, high-discharge NiMH battery with PP45 connectors.
• Hex Motion Components – Anti-slip drive parts for reliable movement.
• Helical Bevel Gears – Compact, quiet gear solutions.
• Cypher Max Encoder – Precision encoder for autonomous control.

A Championship to Remember

The 2025 FIRST Championship reminded us why we love this community. FTC teams continue to impress with their innovation, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of better solutions. Studica Robotics is honored to support your journey and can’t wait to see how you rise to the challenges of the new FIRST® AGE™ season.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by. We’ll see you on the field!

Are you ready to dive into an underwater world of innovation and teamwork? This year's FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC) game, REEFSCAPE℠, plunges teams into an ocean adventure where engineering meets ecology! This article will provide an overview of FIRST® and FRC, explore the intricacies of this year's REEFSCAPE℠ game, and share essential robotics tools to help teams succeed.

About FIRST® Robotics Competition

During the 2024-2025 FIRST® DIVE℠ season, teams will explore the marvels of ocean ecosystems. FRC’s REEFSCAPE℠ challenges students to engineer solutions for restoring vibrant reefs, fostering collaboration, and making waves of impact in their communities.  The FIRST® Robotics Competition is one of the flagship programs of FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) designed to get students aged 14-18 to design, build, and program robots to compete in exciting annual challenges. Beyond technical skills, students learn to develop team branding, forge community partnerships, and promote STEM in their local communities—making an impact both on and off the competition field.

FRC REEFSCAPE℠ Game Overview

In REEFSCAPE℠, alliances of three teams compete to score points by harvesting algae, placing coral on their reef, and attaching to their barge before time runs out. This game rewards creativity, strategy, and cooperation with opponents, emphasizing the core value of Coopertition®.

Key Gameplay Highlights:

• Autonomous Phase (First 15 seconds): Robots operate independently, leaving their starting zone, scoring coral on the reef, harvesting algae, and collecting additional coral.
• Teleoperated Phase (2 minutes and 15 seconds): Drivers control their robots to collect coral from human players and score it on the reef. Robots can also dislodge algae and deliver it to processors or score it on the barge.
• Endgame (Final 30 seconds):
  • Robots race to their barge to hang on the cage and ascend.
  • Points depend on cage depth (Shallow or Deep).
  • Bonus points are awarded for completing additional tasks.

 Ranking Points: Here is a breakdown of the ranking points (RP) for REEFSCAPE℠. This year, ties are worth only one ranking point, marking a shift from previous seasons.

• Autonomous Ranking Point (RP): Earned when all robots leave their starting zone and score coral during the autonomous phase.
• Coral RP: Achieved by scoring coral across all four reef levels. Teams can reduce the requirements for this RP by completing Coopertition tasks.
• Coopertition® Point: Awarded when alliances deliver at least two algae to the processor, benefiting all teams involved.
• Barge RP: Gained by scoring enough barge points during the endgame.
• Match Outcome RP: A win is worth three points, while a tie earns one point. This year, teams can earn up to six RPs per match.

Please refer to the Game Manual for complete ranking points and scoring details. Achieving success in REEFSCAPE℠ requires not just strategy but also the right equipment. Here’s how Studica Robotics can help.

Tools to Succeed

To excel in REEFSCAPE℠, having reliable and versatile robotics components is critical. Studica Robotics offers a wide range of robot parts and kits to help teams meet the competition's unique demands.  

Compliant Wheels: Optimize your intake systems with Studica Robotics' compliant wheels (flex wheels)! Perfect for grabbing coral and managing algae, these flex wheels come in various sizes and durometers to suit every team’s strategy.  

Training Robots: The Stack - Autonomous Mobile Robotics Trainer is the ultimate hands-on training solution. With advanced sensors, Mecanum wheels, and robust features, it’s ideal for building skills to conquer REEFSCAPE℠.  

NavX2-MXP Navigation Sensors: Studica Robotics now offers the navigation sensors formerly available from Kauai Labs including the NavX2-Micro Robotics Navigation Sensor and the NavX2-MXP Robotics Navigation Sensor  (a drop-in replacement for the “Classic” navX-MXP) that offers enhanced performance, ensuring your robot stays on course in every match.  

Cypher MAX Through Bore Encoder: The Cypher MAX Through Bore Encoder is an excellent tool to learn and utilize Odometry for swerve drive modules.    

V-Rail Extrusions: V-Rails, commonly referred to as "churros" are important structure components for your robot build.

The 2025 FIRST® Robotics Competition season is here, brimming with ocean-themed excitement, innovation, and teamwork. As teams rise to the challenge in REEFSCAPE℠, they’ll embody the spirit of creativity, collaboration, and Coopertition®. Equip your team for success with Studica Robotics—your trusted source for innovative components and tools. Dive in today!  

Exploring V Rail Applications to Elevate Your Robotics Projects v-rail-applications-robotics The T-Slot 3030 V Rail from Studica Robotics is a reliable choice for robotics applications, camera sliders, and more. We’re excited to introduce the versatile T-Slot 3030 V Rail from Studica Robotics, available in 10 customizable lengths ranging from 48mm to 1000mm. Whether building in the classroom or for competitions like  FIRST^® Tech Challenge (FTC),  FIRST^® Robotics Competition (FRC), or even automation applications, this lightweight, durable V Rail is engineered to provide strength, flexibility, and precision. Let's explore how you can use them to take your robotics projects to the next level!

V Rail Applications for Robotics and Beyond

The design of our T-Slot 3030 V Rail makes it a versatile tool. It can serve as stabilizer bars to strengthen your robot’s structure or as support columns for creating sturdy stack bots and vertical builds. Its V-shaped groove ensures smooth, precise alignment, making it perfect for linear motion systems that slide effortlessly in any direction. Thanks to its modularity and flexibility, this rail is also ideal for constructing robot bases, end-effector mounts, conveyor systems, and even camera sliders.

Uses for Robotics Competitions like FTC

Robotics teams need adaptable, modular, and reliable components to succeed in competitions. The T-Slot 3030 V Rail provides precisely that. Its versatile design enables teams to construct robust structures, integrate precise motion systems, and quickly adapt to changing design requirements. Here are just a few practical applications for FTC teams:

• Stabilizer Bars: Reinforce your robot's structural integrity with lightweight and sturdy stabilizer bars.
• Support Columns: Use the rail as columns to support stack bots or vertical structures.
• Linear Motion Systems: Create smooth and accurate linear slide systems for mechanisms that require precise movement. The V-shaped groove ensures alignment and stability for carriages and sliders.
• Custom Builds: Easily cut the rail to size to match your unique project requirements.

Whether building a chassis, supporting lift mechanisms, or creating a slide system for sample collection in the INTO THE DEEP challenge, the T-Slot 3030 V Rail delivers the flexibility and strength your team needs to perform at its best.

Engineered to Address Common Robotics Challenges

1. Customizable Lengths: Available in 10 options ranging from 48mm to 1000mm and easily cut to size for custom applications.
2. Compatible Design: Features a 14mm through hole that perfectly fits the Studica Robotics 6mmID x 14mmOD Flanged Bearing or Bronze Bushing.
3. Streamlined Assembly: Compatible with M3 T-Slot Nut Hammer Head Series 20 for quick and secure component attachment.
4. Threaded Ends: Four M3 threaded holes on each end simplify mounting and adding other components.
5. Lightweight Yet Strong: Made from durable aluminum, it offers strength and stability without adding unnecessary weight to your build.

Ready to elevate your robotics game? The T-Slot 3030 V Rail is here to empower your creativity and performance, whether you’re gearing up for the FTC season, innovating in the classroom, or tackling your next automation challenge. With customizable lengths, and unmatched versatility, it’s more than just a tool—it’s your launchpad for success. Check it out today and turn your big ideas into reality!

Ready to dive into the 2024-2025 FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) season? Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting, Studica Robotics has your back with the perfect solution to help you build, prototype, and compete—the FTC Starter Kit! This kit is crafted to power up your skills and boost your team’s confidence as you design, build, and test your robot for the season ahead.

 What's in the FTC Starter Kit?

The FTC Starter Kit (2024-2025) packs a range of high-quality robotics components designed for hands-on competition prep. It includes sturdy structural pieces, essential brackets, and reliable motion components, giving you everything you need to bring your robot to life. (Controllers not included.) View the full list of components.

Why Choose the FTC Starter Kit?

What’s New in the 2024-2025 Kit?

This season, we’ve upped the game with exciting updates tailored for the INTO THE DEEP challenge:

Ready to Start Building?

Your FTC Starter Kit has all the structural items and motion components needed to build a solid starter bot for this season’s INTO THE DEEP challenge. To compete in FTC, add a FIRST-approved REV Control Hub and Electronics Set, available through your FIRST Dashboard. At Studica Robotics, we’re dedicated to more than just selling components—we’re here to provide solutions. From top-quality products to expert support, our mission is to make robotics accessible and inspiring for students. We can’t wait to see what your team creates. Visit our website, get your FTC Starter Kit, and let’s build something amazing together. Best of luck to all teams competing this season!