Kids + Robotics = Fun

PLYMOUTH, MI — By now, many people have seen robotics competition on television. The electronic creations battle it out to see which robot can complete complicated tasks most efficiently. On Aug. 20, Plymouth and Canton residents will have the opportunity to see and operate the machines at the third annual Robots In The Park.

Lightning Robotics — the championship team from Plymouth, Canton and Salem high schools — will host the free event at Kellogg Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Numerous activities for kids are planned, including penny boats, circuit bugs, non-Newtonian fluids and more.

Children will also be able to drive the high school and middle school team robots. Lightning Robotics will have two high school robots to drive and two more for display purposes (including the World Champion Robot). Two middle school robots will be available to drive as well. Other area schools will likely be involved, too.

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Last year, more than 3,000 people attended the event, according to organizer Katie Hyrlia. “We are hoping for an even bigger crowd this year and are so excited to share our championship robot to the public,” she said. “We won the St. Louis World Championship 3 months ago and this past weekend we won the Festival of Champions in New Hampshire.”

For more information, check out Lightning Robotics Facebook page.

Photos courtesy of Lightning Robotics.