Altair Global Student Contest: Advancing Robotics through Innovation

Overview

The Altair Global Student Contest is an international competition designed to challenge university students to push the boundaries of robotics optimization. Running from October 2024 to June 2025, this competition invites students from diverse engineering and data science disciplines to apply cutting-edge simulation and artificial intelligence technologies to enhance robotic applications.

Contest Overview

The contest is open to students worldwide, encouraging them to optimize a robotics application of their choice. Eligible projects include:

FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) robots

Manufacturing robots

Robotic arms

Battle bots

Other robotic systems

Participants can focus on different aspects of optimization, such as:

Mechanical optimization: Lightweighting and structural integrity improvements.

Electrical optimization: Enhancing power efficiency and circuitry performance.

Functional optimization: Refining motion control, speed, and dexterity.

AI-driven optimization: Using data analytics to improve robotic performance and predict maintenance needs.

To ensure a comprehensive approach to optimization, students must utilize at least one Altair software tool, which is freely available through the Altair Student Edition Bundle.

Recommended Altair Software Tools:

Inspire: A structural optimization and simulation tool for lightweighting and performance enhancement.

AI Studio: A machine learning and data science platform for predictive analytics and intelligent automation.

PSIM: A power electronics simulation tool for efficient energy management and system design.

How to Participate

Students interested in participating must:

Register individually or as part of a team.

Submit a project video (maximum 5 minutes) outlining their chosen robotic system, optimization approach, and results.

Leverage Altair software and learning resources.

The competition is structured into three competition quarters, where students can submit one or multiple unique robotics optimization projects. Judges—including Altair engineers and industry experts—will evaluate entries based on:

Innovation

Feasibility

Impact

Technical execution

Why Participate?

The Altair Global Student Contest is more than just a competition—it is an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience with professional engineering tools and methodologies.

Benefits of Participation:

Industry Exposure: Work with the same tools used by leading engineering teams worldwide.

Networking Opportunities: Interact with professionals, mentors, and peers globally.

Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in simulation, AI, and robotics optimization.

Prizes and Recognition: Winners receive cash prizes, certifications, and professional recognition.

Prizes:

Each quarter, Altair awards three winners with prizes ranging from $500 to $2000, along with:

$5000 FIRST Robotics Team sponsorships

Up to $1000 paid student ambassadorships for the best student testimonial reel videos

Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers

Altair’s mission is to empower the next generation of engineers, designers, and data scientists by providing access to world-class tools and real-world challenges. This contest aligns with that vision, inspiring students to explore advanced technologies and develop innovative solutions that will shape the future of robotics.

Whether you are an aspiring roboticist, data scientist, or engineering student eager to tackle optimization challenges, the Altair Global Student Contest is the perfect opportunity to showcase your talents and build a foundation for a successful career.

Join the Challenge!

For registration details, submission guidelines, and additional information, visit the contest website.

Get ready to optimize, innovate, and compete on a global stage!