About Our Team

We are FIRST Robotics Team #8410 based out of Oyster River High School (ORHS) in Durham, NH. FIRST is one of the leading STEM enrichment programs in the world, teaching students about engineering, teamwork, and technology through education and competitions. We embrace the values and mission of FIRST in an environment that encourages collaboration and creativity.

We have an enthusiastic team of approximately 50 students and 8 mentors that are using robotics as a platform to develop the next generation of leaders and innovators. Many of the students on our team have a serious interest in future careers in computer science, electrical/mechanical engineering, and the business of technology. We also have a collective goal to share our excitement for Science and Engineering with others in the community.

Our Subteams

We work collaboratively as a team, but leverage specific skills and subteams for organization

Mechanical

The Mechanical Team is responsible for the physical production of the robot. They apply skills in physics, math, and mechanical engineering to ensure various robotics systems will perform accurately during competitions. Through the process of building a robot, those who contribute to the Mechanical Team get to fabricate, assemble, and build the robot.

Software

Students on the software team are responsible for the various subsystems used to run the robot and run the team. They react to data from sensors and respond with commands to the robots systems to adapt and react. They code everything from vision tracking systems, to drivetrain operation, and shooting mechanisms. Our team codes primarily in Java, and creates systems for shared coding and compartmentalization of code for re-use and efficiency.

Electrical

The Electrical team is responsible for giving all the systems of the robot the power and control they need. They are an integral part of the team connecting the driver, programming code, and mechanical aspects of the robot. Students learn wiring, motor controllers, and power systems and build all of the electrical systems from the ground up.

Design

To help visualize ideas and keep the team connected on decisions and design specifications, the Design team helps with sketching and documentation of robot design direction. Students manage the overall design and engineering process, engaging multiple perspectives from the team. To document ideas, they use CAD software to provide visualizations and specs for fabrication of robot components.

Strategy & Driving

The main focus of the Strategy Team is to be prepared for competitions. This includes developing game-play strategy, forming alliances with other teams, and coordinating the driving functions. The competitions are action-packed, and the Strategy team prepares us for all that we encounter during a session.

Business

The Business subteam is responsible for how our team interacts with the community. They coordinate with sponsors, other schools in the district, and generally with the public through social media and other channels. Students on the Business team also keep track of overall budget, cash flow, and project plans.