Rovers Race for Victory
By Myllena Magalhaes and Shea Larkee, Staff Writers
May 18, 2023
Norwood High engineering students have been working to design and build a rover that will be able to travel through a one mile outdoor course for the 18th annual Technology Olympics. The annual event took place on Tuesday, May 9 and Wednesday, May 10.
There was a new twist this year where all rovers will use the Bluetooth Override Navigation System. These systems were designed and built by the Honors Robotics students here at Norwood High. Additionally, powerful AC generators were on board the rovers this year.
Dr. Crowley instructing the students before the race. Shea Larkee/ The Mustang Gazette
According to Engineering and Robotics teacher Michael Crowley, the Technology Olympics have been going on since 2006.
“It's what we call a capstone project. It's an opportunity for the students to put all the skills they put throughout the year, to focus on one project,” he said.
Dr. Crowley explained that the way to win is to use the least amount of power possible.
Engineering students Joel Francisoco, Isaac Salinas-Junior, and Isabella Silva make up one team.
“My goal is for us to finish the race. As long as it works throughout the whole race.” said Francisoco.
On the other hand, Mariela Abi Elias, Jason Dellicarpini, Joseph Gereige, and Alex Citrone are very confident in their abilities as a team.
“We’re winning. One hundred percent” said Abi Elias.
Their team's goal is to get net zero.
This means that “whatever energy that we use will make it back through the generator. It will basically cancel itself out,” explained Citrone.
Citrone and team at the start of the race. Myllena Magalhaes/ The Mustang Gazette
The Technology Olympics is not just a school project that the students need to get under their belt, it can impact student’s futures as engineers.
Dr. Crowley emphasizes that “colleges and universities, institutes of technology, look for these kinds of opportunities. They expect the students to participate and do well,” he said.
Isabella Silva preparing for the race. Shea Larkee/ The Mustang Gazette
A lot of hard work went into building these creations. Joel Francisoco explained what his team went through to complete their rover.
“A lot of time, effort, [and] butting heads, trying to figure out what is the best planning for this. There was a lot of taking it apart and putting it back together,” he said.
Jason Dellicarpini’s team had a similar experience.
“[It took] a lot of screws, a lot of pieces of metal. It took awhile”. And it took “a lot of trouble shooting”, Alex Citrone added.
Dr. Crowley loves working with his students. He and his students enjoy the challenge of being an engineer.
“There is always a problem that you're trying to figure out, but that's what all these students thrive on,” he said.
Silva's preparations being reviewed. Myllena Magalhaes/ The Mustang Gazette