FIRST, which stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, was founded by Dean Kamen, an inventor, entrepreneur and tireless advocate for science and technology, in 1989 and is based in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Kamen used his passion to help young people discover the excitement and rewards of science and technology as the cornerstone of the FIRST program. The not-for-profit public charity designs accessible and innovative programs to help motivate young people to further pursue educational and career opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. In addition, the programs help build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills.
Panther Robotics demonstrated their robot at the Paola High School pep rally Friday, January 29. The prototype of the kicking mechanism was demonstrated, as well. The mechanism kicked the ball from one end of the court to the other, drawing cheers from the crowd.
The robot was able to follow a replication of the target. This target is above the goals where the robot will score. The hard work of the programming team this week made it possible for the robot is able to sense how close it is to the target and adjust itself. This will make scoring much more consistent.