Team 573 has participated in in the Oakland County Competitive Robotics Association (OCCRA) since it was founded. We participate in OCCRA during our Fall season. Participation in OCCRA for one season earns one point toward a varsity letter. During the fall of 2015, Team 573 hosted an OCCRA competition at Marian High School for the first time.
OCCRA is a local association formed to increase the number of students involved in competitive robotics. This is a full contact robotics competition, where students will control 120 pound robogladiators as they clash on the field of play. The robots will try to score points by placing balls into goals while their opponents try to stop them. OCCRA robots play rough and some damage will surely occur, but unlike “Battlebots” the rules prohibit teams from intentionally damaging another machine.
OCCRA generates enthusiasm for technical and academic disciplines such as design, engineering, physics, and electronics. These competitions provide recognition and encouragement for students who devote their energies to these areas of studies. OCCRA participants will also have the opportunity to learn more about the diverse technical career options available in our county and state.
OCCRA is supported by the Oakland Schools Education Foundation (OSEF), whose support is made possible through the generosity and support of area businesses and individuals. Unlike the FIRST competitions, OCCRA requires the entire robot be student-designed and built. The rules of the competition will allow for and encourage corporate partnerships but will not allow precise machining or processes that cannot be carried out in the schools.
During OCCRA our team works to build a robot that can complete the challenge that we are given. Each sub-team works on a separate aspect of this. Some sub teams work on the structure of the robot. Some sub teams work on the logistics and how to make the robot move. Another sub team works on presenting the information to the judges and updating people about the team. Together we work to win the competition. The students have to build off their own ideas and can only ask specific questions to the mentors. This makes the competition more difficult and more of a learning experience.