FTC Velocity Vortex is played on a 12’x12’ square Field. Two randomly selected teams are paired together as an alliance to play one match against a second alliance. Alliances are designated as either “Red” or “Blue.”
The Driver-Controlled Period
During the Driver-Controlled period, alliances earn points by scoring Particles into their alliance’s Center Vortex or Corner Vortex. Robots may also claim Beacons for their alliance by triggering them to illuminate their alliance color. There is no limit to the number of times that a Beacon may be triggered. At the end of the Game, the color of the Beacon determines the alliance credited for claiming it
The Autonomous Period
During the Autonomous period, robots operate using only pre-programmed instructions. Alliances earn points by: claiming Beacons, moving the Cap Ball off of the Center Vortex base onto the field floor, scoring Particles into their alliance’s Center Vortex or Corner Vortex. Alliances may also gain points by parking their robot in contact with the Center Vortex base or on the Corner Vortex.
The End Game
The final 30 seconds of the Driver-Controlled period is called the End Game. In addition to the Driver-Controlled period tasks, alliances earn points by raising the Cap Ball off the playing field floor or by capping their Center Vortex with it.