6.4 Event Expectations
6.4.1 Travel + Lodging
Teams are responsible for coordinating their own lodging and travel plans.
Lodging
Teams are responsible for booking their own lodging for the event. Teams are recommended to search for hotels near the competition venue, along Three Notch Road, in California, Maryland. Click here for a start to a search of nearby hotels.
Travel Considerations
VISA Process – It is recommended for international students to acquire a B-1 Visitor VISA to attend the competition. However, if the student has plans for any other activities besides the competition, they may choose to investigate other types of visas. Explore the different types of visas: travel.state.gov.
Invitation Letter – Once a team is officially registered and the registration fee is paid, they are eligible to request invitation letters. During the Team Member Registration, each team member are given the opportunity to request an invitation letter issued by RoboNation. Contact support@robonation.org with any questions.
6.4.2 Shipping
Teams are responsible for coordinating the necessary shipping to ensure arrival of vehicle and equipment. Any shipping questions can be directed to Cheri Koch at ckoch@robonation.org / 850.642.0536.
6.4.3 Event Logistics
Team Village
Each team is provided with a 6-foot table working area in a tent that includes one electrical outlet (120V 60 Hz 15A). The Team Village is a tent that resides on a paved surface. Although the covered workspace is weather resistant, teams are discouraged from leaving sensitive electronics/equipment exposed in the tent.
Teams should conduct development, maintenance, and repair of their systems in their designated area in Team Village. Batteries may be charged during the day at the Team Village but may not be left charging overnight.
Team Course Operating Areas (Shoreline)
Teams are provided with an area along the shoreline near the course areas where they are able to set up their shore equipment. Each course has a 10’ x 10’ tent-covered area with a single table per tent, 120V 60Hz 15A power. The power provided is for Operator Control Station (OCS) use only and shall not be extended to any platforms on the flight line.
Power
The United States uses a 120V 60Hz 15A electrical outlet plug. Usually three pins, two parallel blades (one wider than the other), and an offset semi-round pin. The wider blade is Neutral, the shorter blade is Hot/Line and the third pin is Ground. Teams will only get one 15A service and should not connect more load than that.
Vehicle Transportation to Flight Line
The UAS and ground station will be transported from the pits to the flight line via flatbed trailers operated by competition staff. Teams must be able to move equipment from the pit tables to the nearby trailer, from the trailer to the flight-line tent, and back.
Open to the Public
This event is open to the public, with a free guest ticket. Guest tickets can be purchased on the SUAS website. Consider the possible attendance from future employers or sponsors.
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