Guidelines, Rules, and Regulations for Arduino-Based Mini Hackathon

Overview

This Mini Hackathon focuses on Arduino programming, building on the robotics concepts
participants have learned in class. Participants will form teams of up to four members, grouped by
class and section. Each team will randomly select a project by drawing folded papers from a box. If a
team feels unprepared for their chosen project, they will have one additional opportunity to draw a
different one. This process ensures a balance of surprise, challenge, and adaptability to skill levels.

Project Ideas:

1. Smart Night Lamp (Arduino)

General Guidelines

1. Eligibility: Open to students of Classes 6, 7, and 8 with prior exposure to Arduino basics.
2. Team Composition: Teams will consist of up to four members from the same class and
section. Teams are expected to divide roles and responsibilities evenly among members.
3. Project Selection: Projects will be assigned through a random draw system. A team may
redraw once if they feel unprepared for the initial project.
4. Duration: The entire hackathon will span 2 hours, divided into five structured phases.

Competition Structure

The hackathon consists of the following five phases, each designed to progressively challenge
participants:

Phase 1: Component Identification (Riddle Challenge)

• Objective: Solve riddles to identify the components needed for the selected project.
• Outcome: Teams receive a components chart and an approval slip to move to the next phase.

Phase 2: Component Specifications (Puzzle Challenge)

• Objective: Solve logical puzzles, including mathematical challenges like BODMAS or

Phase 3: Component Collection and Code Retrieval (Hands-On Challenge)

• Objective: Complete practical tasks to collect components and retrieve Arduino code.
 • Tasks Include:
1. Component Collection:
▪ Decode resistor values using color bands.
▪ Identify specific sensors (e.g., PIR, ultrasonic) based on clues.
▪ Test LEDs or components for functionality.
2. Code Retrieval:
▪ Fill in blanks in partially written Arduino code.
▪ Complete a multiple-choice quiz related to the code.
• Verification: Instructors review collected components and code for approval.

Phase 4: Circuit Diagram (Quiz Challenge)

• Objective: Answer quiz questions to obtain the circuit diagram for the project.
• Process: Questions will cover Arduino concepts and the specific project being built.
• Outcome: Teams passing the quiz receive the required circuit diagram.

Phase 5: Assembly and Testing

• Objective: Assemble and test the project using the gathered components, retrieved code, and
circuit diagram.
• Process:
1. Teams build their projects step-by-step.
2. Projects are tested to ensure functionality.
• Evaluation Criteria:
o Functionality: Does the project work as intended?
o Creativity: Are there any innovative enhancements?
o Presentation: How effectively is the project explained and demonstrated?

Rules and Regulations

1. Originality: Projects must be completed entirely during the hackathon. Pre-built solutions are
not allowed.
2. Team Roles: Each member must contribute equally to ensure fair participation.
3. Component Handling: Teams must handle all components and equipment responsibly.
Damaged items due to negligence may lead to disqualification.
4. Guidance: Instructors will provide guidance only and will not directly assist in solving tasks
or building projects.
5. Time Management: All phases must be completed within the specified timeframe. Teams
submitting early may receive bonus points.
6. Respect and Collaboration: Teams are expected to work respectfully with peers, mentors,
and judges. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

Additional Notes

• Tailored Challenges: All riddles, puzzles, and quizzes are customized for each project to
make the process engaging and relevant.
 • Diverse Skill Testing: Challenges incorporate a mix of technical, logical, and problem-
solving skills, including concepts like BODMAS, RoboChamp assembly, and Polybius
ciphers.
• Key Objectives: The hackathon focuses on enhancing problem-solving, technical
knowledge, and teamwork among participants.
• Instructor Role: Instructors will serve as guides, ensuring fair play and offering clarification
without directly contributing to the solutions.
• Time Constraints: Teams must complete their projects within the allotted time. Extra points
may be awarded for early submissions or creative innovations.

Final Note

This Mini Hackathon provides an exciting opportunity to apply Arduino programming and problem-
solving skills in a fun, collaborative environment. Participants are encouraged to embrace challenges,
think creatively, and enjoy the learning process. Remember, success is not only about completing the
project but also about teamwork, learning, and innovation.