Combat Robotics

A competitive robotics team designing fighting robots for NHRL across the 3 lb, 12 lb, and (new this year) 30 lb classes.

Combat Robotics LeadHudson Aibel

Built for competition

Combat Robotics competes at NHRL, the country's largest combat robotics event host. Our oldest bot, ROAR-E, has competed at four events, placed as high as eighth, and earned a spot on the invite-only Pro Tour.

Beginners start on 3 lb robots and can move into heavier weight classes as they gain experience.

Two Combat Robotics fighting robots on a workshop table — Combat robots assembled and ready for testing

Choose a robot. Own the build.

Members join a specific robot team and contribute through one or more technical areas.

Mechanical

Design and build the robot and weapon in SolidWorks or Onshape.

Electrical + Software

Plan motors, speed controllers, radios, control systems, custom boards, and data logging.

Manufacturing

Review designs, machine parts, optimize 3D prints, and make sure the robot fits together correctly.

Combat robot opened for repair after a match — Competition damage becomes the next design lesson

A team that learns in the arena

Competition days bring every discipline together: preparation, driving, repairs, data collection, and the quick decisions that get a robot back into the arena.

Every match feeds the next design cycle and gives new members a concrete way to see their work perform.

Combat Robotics team gathered with a robot after an event — The Combat Robotics team after an event

No prior combat-robotics experience is required. Just bring curiosity, patience, and a willingness to test ideas. And don't be sad if the robot is destroyed!