Illustrated Guide to American Robot Sumo

Sumo robot contests feature two robots trying to push each other out of a ring. The competitions are non-destructive, family friendly, and great learning experiences. The purpose of this guide is to encourage you to hold and participate in sumo robot events.

Feel free to link to this article. Or, in association with a particular event, you may reproduce up to 250 partial or complete copies in either printed or electronic form during a 12-month period without fee or permission request. Use the whole guide; or just some of the words or illustrations.

However, please contact me if you wish to use my work in a magazine article, book, CD, website, or any other mass production.

Two Sumo robots clashing on the Sumo ring

Two Sumo robots clashing on the Sumo ring

1. Overview

Two self-controlled robots are placed in a ring. The robots try to avoid falling out or avoid being pushed out by the opponent robot. The first robot that touches outside of the ring loses the round.

The first robot to win two rounds, wins the match. Different robots compete one-on-one against each other throughout the contest. The robot that wins the most matches wins the contest.

Japanese-class robot (left) compared with a Mini-class robot (right)

Japanese-class robot (left) compared with a Mini-class robot (right)

2. Robots

Autonomous Sumo robots are self-propelled and self-controlled, without tethers.

After positioning and starting the robot, no remote control, power, positioning, or other help can be provided. The robot must care for itself until the round ends.

Various components that are often found in Sumo robots

Various components that are often found in Sumo robots

As long as all other requirements are met, Sumo robots can be made out of any material. They can use any type or size of electric motor or electric-powered locomotion. They can contain any kind of processor, electronics, sensors, or batteries desired.

Scratch-built robots are most successful because they are specifically designed for their purpose. However, commercial kits and LEGO bricks are equally viable in the hands of a creative inventor.

There are two popular classes of robots, based on size:

A scale comparing a Japanese-Class Sumo robot to a 3-kilogram mass

A scale comparing a Japanese-Class Sumo robot to a 3-kilogram mass

2.1 Mass

Japanese-class Sumo robots may have a mass of 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds) or less.

A scale comparing a Mini-Class Sumo robot to a 500-gram mass

A scale comparing a Mini-Class Sumo robot to a 500-gram mass

Mini-class Sumo robots may have a mass of 500 grams (1.1 pounds) or less.

Lift can’t reduce the robot below the required limit because the limit is specified in mass (universal constant) rather than weight (gravity component). For example, a helium-filled balloon can’t be used to lighten a robot during weigh in.

A lead weight and a washer

A lead weight and a washer

Because this is a pushing contest, it is to the robot’s advantage to be as heavy as possible. Many builders bring extra weights or washers to increase the robot’s mass to the maximum amount as measured at the contest location.

Rulers measuring the width and depth of a Japanese-class Sumo robot

Rulers measuring the width and depth of a Japanese-class Sumo robot

2.2 Dimensions

At the start of each round, Sumo robots must not exceed a specified width and depth.

Japanese-class Sumo robots may be 20 centimeters (7.87 inches) or less in width and 20 centimeters (7.87 inches) or less in depth.

Rulers measuring the width and depth of a Mini-class Sumo robot

Rulers measuring the width and depth of a Mini-class Sumo robot

Mini-class Sumo robots may be 10 centimeters (3.93 inches) or less in width and 10 centimeters (3.93 inches) or less in depth.

There is no height limit to either class. Also, as soon as movement is allowed in a round, the robot may then twist, fall, or expand without size limits.

A Sumo robot with multiple layers of board stacked high

A Sumo robot with multiple layers of board stacked high

2.3 Taking Advantage of Height

The lack of a height limit is important to some builders, as they may stack up electronics, motors, and other parts that wouldn’t otherwise fit.

A side view of a Sumo robot that falls to position a scoop horizontally

A side view of a Sumo robot that falls to position a scoop horizontally

The lack of a height limit combined with the ability to change orientation during a round provides for creative opportunities.

Crafty inventors build tall scoops atop their robots. The robots then fall down to make themselves longer than would be initially allowed.

A side view of a Sumo robot that lowers a scoop

A side view of a Sumo robot that lowers a scoop

Some robots tip only their scoops into position, rather than dropping the entire robot.

A mean robot that isn’t qualified because it is designed to damage other robots

A mean robot that isn’t qualified because it is designed to damage other robots

2.4 Harmlessness

At all times, robot behavior must be non-offensive, non-destructive, and non-harmful to humans, robots, and the facilities. This is an immutable principle, even if the behavior is unintentional or not by design.

During inspection (and at any time during the event), the judges may require safety changes or other modifications to meet the harmlessness requirement. Harmful robots are either not allowed to compete at all or are later disqualified if potential harmful issues are proven or revealed in battle.

Judges also examine to see if a robot’s design is sufficient to survive the expected pushing, shoving, and physical rigors of competition. Suggestions may be made to avoid damage to the robot. A weak robot is usually allowed to compete at its own risk.

During the contest, the judge must determine if a robot’s failure was due to its own lack of durability. Failures due to exposed wires or unsecured or flimsy parts shall be the responsibility of the robot with such weaknesses.

An foul robot that isn’t qualified for a number of reasons

An foul robot that isn’t qualified

At all times, Sumo Robots must not:

However, as for the last point, naturally some damage occurs from scoops, changes in starting orientation, and from the battles themselves. This is expected and acceptable to any reasonable extent.

Another rule: Sumo Robots must not fly or generate lift to isolate themselves from the ring surface.

The “no-fly” rule isn’t intended to prevent a robot from having a floating portion (such as a camera, sensor, flag, or distraction) nor to prevent jumping or other interesting behavior. The robot qualifies as long as a major portion of the robot is generally available to be pushed out by the opponent robot.

2.5 Suction, Magnets, and Sticky Wheels

Some contests disallow suction, glue, “sticky wheels”, magnets, or other methods of increasing downward force. In those contests, a common method of determining a violation is to place the robot on a piece of paper and lift up the robot to see if the paper lifts too.

With a little bit of advance thought put into the design, a configurable robot might still qualify for contests with such restrictions. Suction can be turned off, sticky wheels can be swapped out, and magnets become ballast.

Broad view of a Robot Sumo ring

Broad view of a Robot Sumo ring

3. The Ring

The Robot Sumo ring is a large, flat disc. It is made of a smooth, rigid material, such as wood, aluminum, or steel. (Steel or another iron-based material is required if magnets are to produce downward force.) The top is usually painted or made of hard rubber.

The top surface is dull black, except for a thin border that is shiny white. Two starting lines in the middle are brown. All of these areas are “in” bounds.

The ring is raised slightly to make it easier to determine when a robot has been pushed out. The height isn’t very much though, to avoid damaging robots that fall or get pushed out.

An external area of at least 100 centimeters (3.3 feet) of empty space exists around the ring. This space must not contain any people, objects, lights, or anything else that would distract or interfere with the robots. The floor may be any color but white.

The external space and the raised-edge wall of the ring are “out” of bounds.

The ring should be as level and sturdy as possible. Fancy rings include feet with built-in level screws.

There are two ring sizes, one each for both popular Sumo robot class sizes. See Appendix A for dimensions.

Sumo robot approaching edge and detecting surface with brightness sensor under scoop

Sumo robot approaching edge and detecting surface with brightness sensor under scoop

3.1 Edge Sensors

A surprising number of Sumo robots drive out of the ring without even being pushed. A well designed and built Sumo robot should be able to navigate the ring indefinitely without falling out.

The flat black ring surface contrasts with the gloss white border so that a robot can easily use a light sensor to detect the edge. Although less popular, physical switches can also detect ring edges.

A sign, Sumo ring, video camera, and closed-circuit monitor

A sign, Sumo ring, video camera, and closed-circuit monitor

4. The Contest

Locally-sponsored Robot Sumo contests happen throughout the world throughout the year. Almost all are open to public entry. Friends and family members are especially welcome in support of the competitors’ hard work and accomplishments.

Specific rules are posted, along with contact information, entry fees, descriptions of potential prizes, date/time, and location information. Although usually not required, most organizers appreciate pre-registration for the event, just so they can get an idea of how many people are likely to participate.

Sumo rings are brought by the contest organizers and set up in advance. Contestants have access to these rings to inspect the surfaces and calibrate sensors for colors and lighting. Robots should be prepared to accept significant variations in Sumo ring quality and lack of ring adherence to specifications. Most of the rings are homemade and somewhat difficult to build perfectly.

Sometimes a large, closed-circuit television is near the ring to provide a good view for the audience. Often times, organizers, participants, audience members, and local media bring still cameras and video cameras.

Competitors and audience members are expected to remain polite, sportsmanlike, and considerate at all times. Good cheers, encouragement, and applause for all competitors are very much appreciated.

A digital scale and size box

A digital scale and size box

4.1 Inspection

Each robot is measured and inspected to verify qualification.

To avoid arguments over analog needle interpretation, usually a digital scale is used for determining mass. Allow for a little free weight that can be added or removed in case your home scale doesn’t match the tournament’s scale.

For width and depth, a carefully measured box or cube is placed over the robot. Actually, the box is more of a tube really, because it is missing the top and bottom. The box avoids arguments over ruler interpretation, because the robot qualifies if the robot fits in the box.

The robot must start each round of the contest in an orientation and physical position that would fit in the box. It would be unfair to measure the robot in one position (sticking out of the top of the box) but then manually rotate the robot to an unqualified length before beginning a match.

The robot is inspected to be sure it is non-damaging and generally safe.

Robot pushing a block of wood

Robot pushing a block of wood

4.2 Testing

A few contests may require each robot to be pitted against an inanimate object, like a block of wood. The robot has three opportunities of up to three minutes each to push the object out of the ring twice.

The time taken and number of successes can be used to determine initial seeding or ranking.

Some contests disqualify robots that can’t push out the inanimate object a certain number of times. However, this practice isn’t desirable, as the courage and effort taken to build and enter a robot should be enough to participate.

Money to pay the entrance fee and a sticker indicating the robot’s designation

Money to pay the entrance fee and a sticker indicating the robot’s designation

4.3 Acceptance

If the robot qualifies, an entry fee is usually paid and an identifying sticker placed atop the robot.

Robots may be altered between rounds and matches,either for repairs, battery changes, or reconfiguration. Keep in mind that the referee may re-examine the robot at any time to re-verify qualification.

Photograph of Sumo robot entered in a contest

Photograph of Sumo robot entered in a contest

Usually a photograph is then taken of the robot and/or inventor. Many organizations like to post these images on their web sites.

A table or other work area is provided for the participant so that the robot can be stored safely and maintained throughout the event.

Single-elimination playoff tree

Single-elimination playoff tree

4.4 Playoffs

Depending on how many robots participate, the organizers can choose a number of different elimination methodologies. A few popular methods are presented here, but obviously creative variations can be designed to meet the needs of a particular contest.

Single Elimination: Upon losing a match, the robot is out of the contest. This is the harshest method and least likely to convincingly determine winners. It also means half the participants get to compete only once.

Double Elimination: Upon losing two matches, the robot is out of the contest. This is common practice when a large number of robots are entered.

A good way to run a double-elimination playoff is to have the set of winning robots pitted against other winning robots, and losing robots against losing robots. That way, a robot won’t have the bad fortune to compete against two top robots in row. For example, robot A loses to robot B, and robot C loses to robot D. Robot A would then play against robot D, with the losing robot being eliminated.

Round Robin: Each robot faces each other robot (one at a time) in a match. Although this can take a long time, it is the most fun because every robot gets a chance to compete against every robot. This method also has the advantage of determining all robots’ actual rank, not just a sole winner.

Heats: The robots are divided into smaller groups and a method above is used within each group to organize one-on-one matches. The winners of each group advance.

4.5 Records, Tie Breaking, and Championship Match

Records should be kept to facilitate dispute resolution and tie breaking. The number of match wins is most important, but some good tie breaking criteria are: round losses, round wins, lightest weight, and total time taken per match win. Sudden death rounds could also be used.

Regardless of the method chosen, organizers should communicate the scoring method well in advance, in writing, so that the participants can design according.

An excellent ending to the contest is to extend the championship match to be the first robot to win by two rounds.

Two poorly-drawn contestants bowing to each other at the start of a match

Two poorly-drawn contestants bowing to each other at the start of a match

4.6 A Match

At the beginning of a match, the contestants approach the ring and bow to each other.

Most Americans aren’t accustomed to bowing, and so may desire to skip this ritual. However, this is an important step in breaking the ice and establishing the friendly, respectful tone of the event and therefore must not be omitted.

The robot must be ready at the appointed times. Contest organizers may grant reasonable leeway, but a referee may declare a round or entire match lost if a robot isn’t punctually prepared to compete.

Throughout the contest, the algorithms, settings, and components on the robot can be shaped, angled, or configured differently for facing each opponent and being placed in different starting positions. In some contests, although a reasonably identifiable core must remain, whole pieces may even be added or discarded. However, these changes must bear in mind appointed time constraints and class restrictions.

Valid ring locations for placement of first robot

Valid ring locations for placement of first robot

4.6.1 Positioning

The better-ranked robot or the robot that just won the prior round is positioned first.

The contestant may place his or her robot in any position, angle, or location on the ring except that no portion of the robot may cross the extended starting line nearest the contestant. The robot must fit within the required starting dimensions (20 cm x 20 cm or 10 cm x 10 cm depending on the robot’s class).

Valid ring locations for placement of second robot

Valid ring locations for placement of second robot

The lesser-ranked robot or the robot that just lost the prior round is positioned second.

It is an advantage to be the second contestant to place a robot in the ring, so one shouldn’t forget or dismiss this opportunity. By placing the second robot out of the direct line of sight, at sideswiping angle, or closer/further to the first robot, it may be possible for the second robot to gain a quick victory.

Depending on who wins this round, the order may change in which the robots are placed next round.

The second contestant may place his or her robot in any position, angle, or location on the ring except that no portion of the robot may cross the extended starting line nearest the contestant. The robot must fit within the required starting dimensions (20 cm x 20 cm or 10 cm x 10 cm depending on the robot’s class).

By the way, after the initial placement of the first robot, it isn’t permissible to alter its starting position. Even though this may be desired in reaction to the placement of the second robot!

Ready to push robot start buttons

Ready to push robot start buttons

4.6.2 Ready? Set? Go!

A robot is usually started by pressing a button. However, a robot may be started by any means, such as hand clapping, a whistle, a laser pointer, an infrared signal, or RF communication. Robots may even have multiple starting buttons or starting configurations if designed with more than one opening move. (Upon starting, no additional control, commands, configuration, or information may be communicated to the robot.)

Both contestants place their fingers on their robot’s starting buttons and await the referee’s signal. If a problem is encountered before the referee says, “go”, a contestant may alert the referee, without penalty, that the robot isn’t ready. (Commonly, a robot may fall or slip when a finger is place over the start button.)

Leave the exterior space after pressing the start button

Leave the exterior space after pressing the start button

4.6.3 Clear Exterior

Upon pressing the start buttons, the contestants immediately leave the exterior area around the ring. During the round, all people and objects must be kept out of the ring and exterior area to avoid distracting the robots or altering the outcome.

Upon pressing the start buttons, each robot must not move at all for five seconds. However, countdown lights, buzzers, sounds, or other entertaining motionless activity is encouraged.

The contestant halting the start of the round because the robot’s countdown failed to begin

The contestant halting the start of the round because the robot’s countdown failed to begin

4.6.4 No Start

During the countdown, if the contestant notices their robot has failed to start its countdown, the contestant may alert the referee and halt the countdown. Both robots are reset to start the round over.

The contestant is given a warning. A second warning of any kind in a single round results in the robot losing that round.

It is to the benefit of the contestant to stop the countdown if the robot fails to start the first time. It may still be to the benefit of the contestant to stop the countdown a second time (losing the round) if the robot is likely to suffer damage by failure to start.

A robot (left) racing across the ring toward another robot (right) that is still counting down

A robot (left) racing across the ring toward another robot (right) that is still counting down

4.6.5 False Start

If a robot begins moving during the five-second period, the robot has committed a false start. A warning is issued and both robots are reset to start the round over.

A second warning of any kind in a single round results in the robot losing that round.

Designers may be tempted to program a countdown timer that is shorter than the five seconds required. However, referees and competitors quickly catch this, which results in warnings followed by round loss after round loss for the cheat.

A robot loses a round because its scoop has touched the floor outside the ring

A robot loses a round because its scoop has touched the floor outside the ring

4.6.6 Out

A robot loses a round when any portion (including touch sensors, whiskers, scoops, or skirts) of the robot touches outside of the ring. It doesn’t matter if the robot falls out on its own or is pushed out.

The first robot touching outside of the ring loses, even if the second robot subsequently touches outside of the ring. If the referee determines that both robots touched outside of the ring at the same time, the round is nullified and started over.

A robot losing a round when its wheel touches the side of the ring

A robot losing a round when its wheel touches the side of the ring

Touching the raised edge of the wall itself is also considered out.

A robot losing a round when its hex nut falls out of the ring

A robot losing a round when its hex nut falls out of the ring

If any piece of the robot, no matter how small or even if detached, touches outside of the ring, the robot is considered out. For example, if a nut drops off a robot within the ring, the robot doesn’t immediately lose. However, if the nut is then pushed out or rolls out, the robot loses.

Alternate rules: Some contests allow for up to 5 grams to fall off the robot and be swept out (if unattached) without the robot losing. Some contests end the round immediately if more than 5 grams detaches from a robot, with that robot losing.

A robot winning a round by landing on the other robot’s scoop or whisker

A robot winning a round by landing on the other robot’s scoop or whisker

If a robot lands outside the ring atop a whisker, scoop or any portion of the opponent robot, the opponent robot is out. This is consistent with the policy that the robot that touches outside first is out, even if the second robot subsequently touches outside the ring.

A robot slipping on the edge, but which hasn’t yet fallen out

A robot slipping on the edge, but which hasn’t yet fallen out

4.6.7 Not Out

Starting to fall or breaking the plane of the ring isn’t considered out. Some portion of the robot must actually touch outside the ring.

A contestant stopping a round to prevent damage

A contestant stopping a round to prevent damage

4.6.8 Contestant Stoppage

At any time after the five-second starting countdown is over, a contestant may choose to enter the exterior space or otherwise signal stoppage to the referee. That contestant’s robot loses the round.

If the robot is malfunctioning or in a position in which damage could occur, it might be in the contestant’s interest to halt the round and take the short-term loss.

A contestant that communicates with a robot, attempts to distract (such as with an IR or laser emitter), or in any way attempts to interfere with the outcome is also considered signaling stoppage.

Stopwatch

Stopwatch

4.6.9 Referee Stoppage

At the referee’s discretion, the referee may choose to restart a round if:

At the referee’s discretion, the referee may choose to end a round and choose the round winner if:

A brick and a multi-bot

A brick and a multi-bot

4.7 Brick, Dropped Parts, and Separation

Some contests require a robot to move every certain number of seconds. This is usually referred to as the “No bricks” rule, since a brick or other inanimate object wouldn’t qualify.

Some contests declare a robot to lose a round if any part greater than a certain size or mass should become detached. This, in turn, prohibits multi-bots or any other robot that separates into parts by design.

Some contests believe these limitations are unnecessary and overly restrictive. In the case of bricks, motionless robots are fairly vulnerable to any well-designed, halfway-intelligent mobile robot. For multi-bots or dropped parts, it would seem a serious disadvantage as any part shoved out of the ring causes the entire robot to lose the round.

Since neither condition would seem to provide an unfair advantage, why stifle creative engineering or amusing solutions? Perhaps dropping a homing beacon, a lure, or a spent battery would be an interesting addition to the sport?

If one cannot beat a brick, one hasn’t yet engineered an effective solution. A well-engineered, high-density, low-profile brick with high-friction base could prove to be difficult to dislodge, but the referee still has the prerogative to award an expired, “tied” round to the mobile robot.

Robot out of bounds being recovered

Robot out of bounds being recovered

4.8 End Of Round

At the end of a round, the contestants retrieve their robots and prepare them for the next round.

A happy robot is a winning robot

A happy robot is a winning robot

4.9 End Of Match

The first robot to win two rounds, wins the match.

This means there can be as few as two very quick rounds to win a match. Or there can be as many as three, three-minute rounds (not counting restarts). In the latter case, each robot must have won a round to force the third-round tiebreaker.

Of course, a match may also end if a contestant or robot is disqualified or otherwise unable to complete.

At the end of the match, the contestants bow to each other, just as they did at the beginning of the match. They then leave the ring area to prepare their robots for any additional matches in the contest.

Wide tires, scoop, dark body, and opponent sensor

Wide tires, scoop, dark body, and opponent sensor

5. Tips

  1. When two well-built robots compete, the tires become the deciding factor. The better the tires grip the ring surface, the more the robot can shove and the less the robot can be shoved. Unless severely underpowered, motors rarely stall; almost always the tires spin. Narrow, worn tires spell disaster. Wide, clean, abundant tires spell victory. Don’t stifle creativity, tracks and even legs should be considered.
  2. A scoop or arm is vital. Anything that shifts the opponent’s weight of off its wheels is desirable. A scoop can both reduce the grip of the opponent’s wheels (by tilting weight off) and also increase the grip on the scooper’s wheels (by tilting the opponent’s weight on top). Also, a scoop may topple or tip an opponent onto its side or over the ring edge. Grabbers and pushers should also be considered for similar reasons.
  3. Dark robots are more difficult for the opponent’s infrared or light sensors to see. Fuzzy-surfaced robots are more difficult for sonic sensors to detect.
  4. Slick, encased robots are more difficult for the opponent to grip or accidentally damage.
  5. Although not required, infrared or other opponent-targeting sensors improve a robot’s chances of contacting the opponent in a motion with the greatest forward momentum. Additionally, a robot with opponent sensors is less likely to get struck from an undesirable angle, such as on the side or from behind.
  6. Because of human nature, rounds usually begin with the robots positioned facing each other. If they miss each other on the first pass, the round may take some time. This is especially true if the robots lack opponent sensors and are just driving in a random, star, or crossing pattern. The longer the round takes, the more likely the robot with good edge sensors is likely to win by default as the robot with poor edge sensors simply drives out of the ring.

6. Spirit

Based on fair competition, Robot Sumo encourages friendships and the exchange of ideas, showcases accomplishments, advances robotics, and seeds interest in future generations of robot builders.

The rules are designed to support those principles. But, a written document is unable to cover all the circumstances and conditions of an event. The referee and contest organizers have complete discretion to interpret and alter these rules, at any time, to meet the intended spirit of the games.

Whenever reasonably possible, referees should provide helpful explanations and opportunities for correction to allow even novice contestants every chance to participate and have an enjoyable experience. When disagreements arise, participants and spectators should be flexible and remain respectful.

Referees and contest organizers have the right to determine the penalties for violations as they occur, on a case-by-case basis. Penalties can range from nothing, requesting a change in behavior, warnings, round loss, match loss, to disqualification or even physical removal.

7. Rule Evolution and Standardization

The rules will evolve to support novel designs, intelligent techniques, and quality engineering.

Local contests commonly use variations of rules. This only tends to be a problem when differences (such as robot dimensions or mass) prevent many robots from being able to compete in another region or contest. The lack of rule-compatible robots would reduce participation and excitement.

Careful consideration of this negative effect should be given before local contest organizers reject various standard rules. Perhaps attracting competition and critical mass outweighs any detriments of national standardization.

A good compromise could be to grandfather local pre-existing robots that don’t meet standard rules. Or, an irregular-class tournament could be held for those that no longer conform. Publishing the rule variations well in advance can also allow robot builders to design options or reconfigurable robots to meet multiple rule sets.

Appendix A. Ring Dimensions

A1. These rings are encouraged as standards.

There are some other minor ring variations, but they all closely resemble the International Ring.

Ring Name Ring Diameter Ring Height Border Width Start Line Width Start Line Length Start Line From Center Exterior
International 154 cm 5 cm 5 cm 2 cm 20 cm 10 cm 100 cm
Mini 77 cm 2.5 cm 2.5 cm 1 cm 10 cm 5 cm 100 cm
Micro 38.5 cm 1.25 cm 1.25 cm 0.5 cm 5 cm 2.5 cm 100 cm

Broad view of dimensions of an International Robot-Sumo ring

Broad view of dimensions of an International Robot-Sumo ring

(None of the ring drawings are to scale.)

A2. The Japanese-class Sumo robot competes on an International ring.

The International ring is 154 centimeters (5 feet 5/8 inch) in diameter, 5 centimeters (2 inches) in height, with an exterior empty space at least 100 centimeters (3.3 feet) all the way around.

Overhead view of the dimensions of an International Robot-Sumo ring

Overhead view of the dimensions of an International Robot-Sumo ring

The surface of the International ring is flat black.

The border is gloss white and 5 centimeters (2 inches) in width.

The starting lines are brown. Each line is 2 centimeters in width (3/4 inch) by 20 centimeters (7.87 inches) in length, centered 10 centimeters (3.93 inches) from the middle of the ring. Therefore the starting lines are a total of 20 centimeters (7.87 inches) apart from each other.

The vertical edge can be any color (white, black, or even unpainted).

The exterior space can be any color but white.

Broad view of the dimensions of a Mini Robot-Sumo ring

Broad view of the dimensions of a Mini Robot-Sumo ring

(See instructions on making your own mini-Sumo ring.)

A3. The Mini-class Sumo robot competes on a Mini ring, which is half the dimensions of the International ring.

The Mini ring is 77 centimeters (2.5 feet 5/16 inch) in diameter, 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) in height, with an exterior empty space at least 100 centimeters (3.3 feet) all the way around.

Overhead view of the dimensions of a Mini Robot-Sumo ring

Overhead view of the dimensions of a Mini Robot-Sumo ring

The surface of the Mini ring is flat black.

The border is gloss white and 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) in width.

The starting lines are brown. Each line is 1 centimeter in width (3/8 inch) by 10 centimeters (3.93 inches) in length, centered 5 centimeters (1.97 inches) from the middle of the ring. Therefore, the starting lines are a total of 10 centimeters (3.93 inches) apart from each other.

The vertical edge can be any color (white, black, or even unpainted).

The exterior space can be any color but white.

There is a wide variation of rules and classes for Sumo robotic contests.

Dr. Mato Hattori created the original Japanese rules.

Bill Harrison adapted the rules for mini-Sumo and propagated the sport in the western hemisphere.

Please let David Cook, of RobotRoom.com, know if you encounter any additional rules or links.

B1. Original branch:

FUJISOFT ABC Inc. - All Japan Robot-Sumo Tournament Game Rules

San Francisco Robotics Society Of America (SFRSA) - ARCE Robot Games Rules, Contest Descriptions and Rules

B1.1 Northwest branch (sub-branch of FUJISOFT):

Central Illinois Robotics Club (CIRC) - 2002 Sumo Rules

Northwest Robot Sumo - Tournament Rules

Portland Area Robotics Society (PARTS) - Mini Sumo Rules

Seattle Robotics Society (SRS) - Robothon Sumo

Twin Cities Robotics Group (TCRG) - Robot Sumo Wrestling Rules

Western Canadian Robot Games (WCRG) - Robotic Sumo Wrestling, Autonomous Mini Sumo Robot Wrestling

B2. Ontario-class branch:

7th Annual International BEAM Robot Games Lucknow, INDIA (Lucknow) - Robot Sumo Wrestling

Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD) - Sumo Robot Rules

Ryerson Polytechnic University - Sumo Robotics Ryerson’s Challenge (page no longer exists)

University of Toronto (UT) - Rules for the 1995 Sumo Wrestling Competition (page no longer exists)

B3. Western-class branches:

North East Indiana - Robot Games Rules 2000, Sumo Wrestling, Rules & Regulations

Manitoba Robot Games - Official Competition Rules, Robotic Sumo Wrestling (page no longer exists)

Winnipeg Area Robotics Society - Robotic Sumo Wrestling, Rules and Regulations (page no longer exists)

B4. Independent branches:

Australian Computer Society; Robotics Special Interest Group (ACS) - 2000 Robotic Sumo Wrestling Rules (page no longer exists)

Brigham Young University (BYU) - Sumo-Car Challenge, Rules & Regulations

B5. Chicago branches:

Chicago Area Robotics Group (ChiBots) - Chicago Rules

Appendix C. Robot Classes

The Japanese Class, Mini Class, and Micro Class are encouraged as standards.

Class Name Weight Width Depth Height Group
Ontario 10-35 pounds 1 foot 1 foot 1 foot Lucknow, OCAD, Ryerson, UT
Utah 15 pounds 18 inches 18 inches 18 inches BYU
Western 11 pounds 9 inches 9 inches unlimited Indiana, Manitoba, Winnipeg
Queensland 3 kg 30 cm 30 cm 30 cm ACS
Japanese 3 kg 20 cm 20 cm unlimited CIRC, FUJISOFT ABC, Indiana, Northwest, SFRSA, SRS
Minnesota 1.5 kg 15 cm 15 cm unlimited TCRG
Illinois 1.5 kg 20 cm 20 cm unlimited CIRC
Karui 1 kg 20 cm 20 cm unlimited SFRSA, SRS
Mini 500 g 10 cm 10 cm unlimited ChiBots, CIRC, Northwest, PARTS, RoboMaxx, SFRSA, SRS, WCRG
Micro 100 g 5 cm 5 cm unlimited* SRS, PARTS, RoboMaxx

*At present, the local rules I’ve seen so far dictate 5 cm height restriction on Micro Sumo robots. With all due respect, this is unnecessarily restrictive and is contrary to the Japanese and Mini Sumo dimensions.

Appendix D. Match, Round, Bout, Game, Trial, Heat

Good grief! There must be as many term variations for sub-contest units as there are contests themselves.

“A Sumo match consists of up to three rounds of up to three minutes each round. The first robot to win two rounds wins the match.” is encouraged as standard.

(Match=3 rounds)

ChiBots: “A Sumo match consists of up to three rounds of up to three minutes each round.”

OCAD: “A match will consist of three rounds.”

Ryerson: “Each match will be a best of three rounds”

WCRG: “One match shall consist of 3 rounds”

(Match=3 bouts)

PARTS: “A sumo match consists of up to three bouts between two robots. The first robot to win two bouts wins the match.”

SRS: “A sumo match consists of up to three bouts”

TCRG: “Match Rules: Each bout will last a maximum of 3 minutes”

(Match=3 games)

CIRC: “One match shall consist of 3 games”

Northwest: “One match shall consist of 3 games.”

SFRSA: “One match shall consist of 3 games.”

(Match=3 heats)

Lucknow: “Matches will consist of three trials”

(Match=3 heats)

UT: “Each match will consists of three heats, which is a one-minute ’shoving match' inside the Douyou.”

(Game=3 matches)

FUJISOFT ABC: “A game consists of three matches of three minutes each.”

(Round=3 bouts)

BYU: “Each round will consist of three bouts with the winner being the robot which wins two out of the three bouts.”

(Round=up to 3 bouts)

ACS: “The Sumo competition consists of a three minute round involving two robots. Within the three minute round there may be more than one bout. If a bout is won before the three minutes are up, the clock will be stopped and the robots replaced in their starting position for another bout. There may be up to three bouts in a three minute round, with the winner being the robot which wins the most bouts.”

Indiana: “There may be up to three bouts in a three minute round, with the winner being the robot that wins the most bouts in the round (to a maximum of 2 wins i.e. best 2 out of three). Each contestant is guaranteed a minimum of three rounds, and is awarded points per round on the following basis...”

Winnipeg: “There may be up to three bouts in a three minute round, with the winner being the robot which wins the most bouts”

Manitoba: “If a bout is won before the three minute round is up, the clock will be stopped and the robots replaced in their starting position for a second bout. There may be up to three bouts in a single three minute round, with the winner being the robot which wins two out of three bouts.”

Appendix E. Chicago Rules

The base rules and contest methodology are those at www.robotsumo.com. The following clarifications or exceptions are made:

E1. CHIBOTS: ChiBots runs an autonomous Mini Sumo robot class. Robots begin 10 cm x 10 cm by no height limit and may expand to any size after starting. 500 grams. No remote controls during the round. So, it is acceptable to remotely control the robot before the beginning of the round (including a remote start button) and after the end of the round (including a remote stop button).

E2. MAGNETS: The ring shall not be made of steel; therefore magnets won’t provide downward force other than their mass. However, magnets are not prohibited.

E3. SUCTION: Suction to increase downward force is prohibited.

E4. STICKY WHEELS AND CHEMICALS: Sticky wheels are prohibited, as are wheel-cleaning chemicals used during the contest whose use suggest or require ventilation. Robots that leave any type of residue on the ring lose the round. A second occurrence results in disqualification from the contest.

Rules E2, E3, and E4 are to discourage the overemphasis on mechanical solutions to the contest. Although pushing might seem the primary tenant, the purpose is in fact the advancement of robotics. (Note: If you build a robot with any of these features, simply disable the features (or swap wheels) to enter the contests run with Chicago rules.)

E5. PIECES: Robots are permitted to fall apart or split into multiple pieces / robots. This includes leaving beacons or lures. This rule encourages potentially creative or interesting designs, and it allows insignificant parts to be dislodged without automatically losing. However, any piece that leaves the ring (purposely or not) causes the robot to lose the round. (Warning: A robot that purposefully separates or drops parts may be disallowed by Sumo contest rules used by other clubs.)

E6. BRICKS: Non-moving robots qualify. No rounds shall be ended by the referee for a non-moving robot, although a contestant can still halt (forfeit) the round if desired. However, in the event of a tie after three minutes, the most active robot shall be declared the winner of the round. This rule encourages robots that don’t drive out on their own within three minutes. (Warning: Purposefully non-moving robots may be disallowed by Sumo contest rules used by other clubs. Usually there is a rule requiring the robot to move at least every five seconds.)

E7: VIDEO BONUS: Robots that wish to utilize video are permitted to receive unprocessed video frames (single or streaming) from an off-board video system. The off-board setup must be outside of the 100 cm external area and must be accepted by the judges as not interfering with the contest. This rule encourages innovation in robotic vision. (Warning: Robots with off-board equipment may be disallowed by Sumo contest rules used by other clubs.)

E8. SENSOR INTERFERENCE: Electronics (sound or light emitters) or physical techniques (reflective or non reflective surfaces) that attempt to trick the opponents sensors are permitted, so long as they are not dangerous, don’t discourage audience viewing (strobes, lasers), and don’t result in permanent sensor damage. Robots that shock, stun, emit excessive electrical noise, or techniques that may interfere with more than sensors are not permitted. (Note: A few clubs disallow sensor interference. To be compatible with some contests, add a switch to disable the interference feature.)

E9. ROBOT ALTERATIONS: Batteries and parts can be swapped during the contest, so long as a reasonably identifiable core robot remains consistent throughout and the mass does not exceed the mass recorded at the initial weigh in. (This means you must load up the robot to its most massive state at weigh in.) This rule encourages robots with interchangeable parts to tackle different types of opponents. Upon entering the external area to begin a round, if an opponent or referee challenges the robot as now being non-qualifying or being more massive than at the initial weigh in, it will be re-measured. If it fails, the robot shall lose the entire match. Two failures and the robot is disqualified from the contest.

E10. CLASS LIMITS: For qualification, the judges shall strictly enforce the dimension and mass limits of a robot as measured by local instruments. Width and depth dimensions are qualified with robot parts pressed up against the walls of a rectangular tube, not in free space with a ruler. Up to 25% additional droop or tilt (but not expansion) shall be permitted in the starting position of the robot in the actual ring, so long as the robot starts in a free-standing position generally the same as the one measured in the tube.

E11. CONTESTANT'S ROBOT: Kit robots or robots made in whole or part by other people are permitted. Science is built on the shoulders of giants. This rule also permits robots to be entered by people who can’t attend or operate their robot during the event.

E12. MULTIPLE ENTRIES: Multiple entrees, even identical entrees, by a single contestant are permitted. The contestant must have a willing designate to operate one robot if two robots from the same contestant play a match. A contestant may strategically forfeit rounds or matches to manipulate their entrees payoff placement, during seeding or in the contest.

E13. QUALIFICATION FOR PARTICIPATION: Any robot that fails to qualify for any reason shall not be permitted to participate in the actual contest at all, as it may affect the outcome of robots with which it competes.

E14. SEEDING: Each robot plays one match against a test block of roughly the limits of the associated Sumo class. Unlike normal matches, failure to beat the test block in three minutes results in a round loss for the contestant. The results determine seeding for the contest in the following order: fewest losses, most wins, lowest initial weigh-in mass. Top seed faces bottom seed.

E15. PLAYOFFS: The method of elimination shall be announced the day of the event based on the number of qualifying entries.

E16. START TIME: Rounds and matches are played in order and on time. Upon being called to begin a round, the contestant has one minute to position their robot and to be ready to start. Robots that aren’t ready (fail to start or fall from their starting positions) are given a warning. Another minute is given. A second warning forfeits the round. This rule encourages robots that are ready to run and that have batteries, alterations, or repairs performed quickly.

E17: PRE-START STRATEGY: Builders may design multiple start buttons or strategy switches into their robot. So long as the first robot’s position is not altered (which would result in a warning), the contestants may alter settings or press buttons until the point at which the start button is pressed. This rule encourages robots with flexible opening moves or strategies.

E18. ROUND RETRIES: In the event that the referee can’t decide the winner of a round (for example if both robots seemed to fall out at the same time), the referee has the sole discretion to re-run the round or declare the winner based on lowest mass on the initial weigh-in.

E19. CHAMPIONSHIP: The championship match requires a robot to win by two rounds. As many rounds as necessary are played.

E20. RULE CLARIFICATIONS OR MODIFICATIONS: In the event that a rule is unclear or a condition is not covered, the referee decides. If any participant in the contest objects, the event organizers’ officers shall vote publicly.