Event: Robot chefs race against time to master kitchen mayhem

Media are invited to a culinary showdown showcasing UBC students’ robotic design skills on Thursday, Aug. 8. 

Inspired by the popular video game Overcooked, 15 teams of UBC engineering physics students will field a pair of autonomous robots trying to complete as many food orders as possible within a time limit. Each pair will work together to assemble burgers, fries and salads, with higher complexity orders and flawless execution earning more points. The team with the most points at the end will be crowned the winner.

“The students have been averaging about 12 hours per day in the lab and it’s incredible to see the progress they’ve made,” said Dr. Andre Marziali, director of the engineering physics program. “For some of them, this is the first time they’ve used hand tools, and now they’ve built fully autonomous machines that can collaborate with each other and interact with the world.”

Participating in exciting events offers more than just fun for students, added Dr. Marziali.

“This is the start to building a skillset that will carry them to careers at the forefront of technology. Our students go on to work in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, spacecraft design and biotech, all fields that require a deep understanding of physics combined with practical engineering skills.”

Event: Overcooked robot competition

Date/Time: Thursday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon

Location: Room 100, Hebb Building, 2045 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1 (map)

Parking: North Parkade, 6115 Student Union Blvd., Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1 (map)

Interview opportunities:

• Dr. Andre Marziali, program director
• Gregory Reid, course instructor
• Students

Assignment editors: Event starts at 10 a.m. sharp; please arrive at least 30 minutes early to set up cameras.

More info: Competition rules