Mini Sumo Robot - RoboChallenge 2025

About Me

My name is Anastasios Karaivazoglou, I am 15 years old and live in Serres, Greece. I am a passionate robotics competitor and maker with a strong background in mechanical design, electronics, and programming. Over the past years, I’ve taken part in numerous robotics competitions and achieved:

• 2x 2nd places at the Robotic Championship Oradea in (2023)
• 2nd place at the Robotic Championship Oradea in (2024) at Mini Sumo
• Multiple awards and distinctions in Greek national competitions
• I had the honor of representing Greece as part of the national team at the Robotex held in Estonia.

I design and build my robots entirely by myself—from custom PCBs and embedded code to mechanical parts.

My Mini Sumo Robot: Speed, Precision, and Power

The Mini Sumo robot I am developing is designed in Fusion360 and built for top-level competition, and it includes:

1. XMotion All In One Controller V3, a compact and powerful mainboard with integrated motor drivers, designed specifically for Mini Sumo applications
2. Pololu N20 Mini DC 12V 800 RPM high-torque gear motors, ideal for fast and aggressive pushing
3. Kanzawa Blade, a strong and sharp wedge for optimal engagement
4. Four JS40F Digital Distance Sensors (reflective type infrared IR) that rely on beam reflection of front object for opponent detection
5. Official MicroStart Sumo & Minisumo Robot Start Module for compliance with international rules
6. Silicone Wheel Set for high friction 
7. Lipo Battery 3S 11.1V 2200mAh for many battles without too many charges

I am currently optimizing the chassis and weight distribution to ensure stability and maximum traction. For that reason, having a custom-built CNC machined aluminum chassis is critical.

My Current Mini Sumo Robot

Here’s a look at my current Mini Sumo robot, fully assembled and tested for competitions. Powered by Pololu 6V 600RPM motors, equipped with JSumo’s XMotion board and three distance sensors, it’s built for speed, stability, and smart opponent tracking. One of its key features is a pair of deployable side flags that lower at the start of the match. These are designed to mislead the opponent's sensors, making them target the flag instead of the actual body—allowing me to attack from the side and gain the upper hand.

Project Purpose: Building a CNC for Precision Sumo Parts

To take my robot to the next level, I am building a custom CNC machined aluminum chassis that will allow me to fabricate precision parts—especially the chassis and blade mounts.

This will help me:

1. Achieve high accuracy in motor and wheel mounting
2. Create durable, lightweight frames
3. Continuously test and upgrade designs to stay competitive at the highest level

My goal is to complete this CNC in time for the RoboChallenge in (31/10-02/112025) in Bucharest, Romania, where I will compete with an entirely self-designed and self-built Mini Sumo robot. I will compete also in two more categories Line Follower and Line Follower Turbo.

Why I'm Requesting Sponsorship from PCBWay

I am reaching out to PCBWay because I admire your continuous support of young engineers, makers, and robotics teams around the world. Your sponsorship would help cover:

• The CNC machined aluminum chassis
• The best preparation for the upcoming Robot Challenge

In exchange, I will proudly showcase PCBWay’s logo on my robot, CNC machine, and during the competition. I also plan to share detailed build logs, photos, and videos online to inspire other young builders and promote PCBWay’s support for student innovation.