top of page

This year's game

2024

 

 

The 2024 MINESHAFT Challenge includes an exciting Robot Drone League (RDL) game, centered around real-world aspects of biomining technology. Machine design and collaboration are key to scoring maximum points. 

 

​Welcome to the Robot Drone League (RDL) 2024 Challenge, MINESHAFT. This year, we embark on a remarkable journey that not only showcases the innovative spirit of RDL but also pays homage to a significant chapter in the American narrative—the history of coal mining in the Appalachian region. 

​

The Appalachian mountains, home to vast coal deposits historically dubbed as "black diamonds," have played a pivotal role in shaping the economic and social landscape of the Southeastern United States. From the late 19th to the early 20th centuries, these resources fueled the rapid industrialization of post-Civil War America, transforming local economies and attracting a diverse workforce. However, this boom was not without its cost, bringing about harsh labor conditions, health risks, and ecological challenges.

Today, as we witness a shift in energy sources and economic paradigms, the decline of traditional coal mining presents an opportunity to reflect on its legacy. The MINESHAFT challenge is not just a competition; it represents a platform for innovation and education. Through this initiative, we aim to leverage modern technology to address both past and present challenges, exploring innovative solutions such as biomining. This technique offers a sustainable method for extracting valuable materials, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting the restoration of ecosystems affected by traditional mining practices.

​

Our robots and drones are more than just tools for exploration and competition; they symbolize our commitment to understanding the impacts of industrial activities and innovating towards sustainable and safe practices. As STREAMWORKS champions the fusion of Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, we are molding a skilled, knowledgeable, and adaptable workforce. This initiative embodies our dedication to transforming educational experiences into practical, real-world applications.

Through this challenge, participants will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of industries like mining while contributing to technological advancements that promise safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible practices.

 

Let us move forward with the spirit of innovation and collaboration, honoring the rich history of Appalachia, while paving the way for a future where technology and tradition merge to create sustainable solutions for the challenges of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey, and let the 2024 RDL MINESHAFT challenge begin!

RDL implements Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) through the completion of grade-appropriate science and math questions.

​

​​​​​​​

RDL High Res Pic(1).png

2024 MINESHAFT Judging Rubrics:

2023 SCARECROW Scores and Awards List:

The Field

Full Field.png

SCARECROW: Full Release Video

The 2023 Robot Drone League Challenge, SCARECROW, is based around the growing need for technology in agriculture in order to solve many problems centered around food scarcity, drought, genetic modification of organisms, water quality, and much more. 

​

The full release contains information from partners such as relevant industry experts from BioBuilder, showcases the game teaser and game animation. The video also contains insider information about specific game elements utilized in SCARECROW and explains new updates to the structure of Robot Drone League. 

SCARECROW: Question & Answer

In this livestream, the staff at Robot Drone League collected answers from RDL teams and answered them in a Q&A setting. Also in this video are various demonstrations as a part of a field walkthrough and prop-demo. 

bottom of page