UCCR – University of Cincinnati Combat Robotics

Who we are

UCCR (University of Cincinnati Combat Robotics) is a student-led engineering organization focused on designing, manufacturing, and competing with high-performance combat robots at national-level competitions, including NHRL events. Our team brings together over 40 students per year across mechanical, electrical, computer engineering, and related majors who are passionate about applying classroom theory to real, high-impact robotics projects.

What we do and our achievements

Our robots are fully integrated electromechanical systems combining high-speed brushless drive motors, lithium polymer batteries, precision-machined aluminum and steel frames, 3D‑printed armor and internal structures, and radio-controlled electronics designed to survive extreme hits. We compete in combat robotics events where robots collide at high speed and deliver powerful weapon strikes, so every design must keep working through severe impacts, vibration, and shock.

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In recent seasons, UCCR robots have qualified for and competed at NHRL events, and our team has fielded multiple designs in 3 lb and 12 lb classes. On campus, we host live 1 lb (antweight) combat robotics tournaments at UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub, giving students and alumni a chance to experience real robot combat and learn about engineering in an exciting, hands-on way.

Our current projects and manufacturing needs

We founded UCCR to bridge the gap between theory and practice by putting student-designed robots into real arenas where failure is loud, visible, and educational. Each season, we design new robots and iterate on existing ones, going through the full process: concept development, CAD, mechanical analysis, machining, 3D printing, assembly, testing, and real competition.

Right now, our biggest bottlenecks are machining capacity, 3D printing, and material costs. Key areas where we need support are:

CNC machining and fabrication:

• Precision machining of aluminum and steel weapon arms, chassis plates, and drive components.
• Tight tolerances and fast turnaround are critical so we can iterate designs between events.

3D printing of functional parts:

• High-strength polymer prints (e.g., nylon, reinforced filaments) for armor panels, brackets, and internal mounts.
• Rapid prototyping of new geometry for weapon guards, internal structure, and sensor or electronics mounts.

Materials and general funding:

• Stock material (aluminum bar/plate, steel, plastics), fasteners, bearings, and replacement parts consumed during testing and competition.
• Event fees, transportation, and replacement components after heavy damage at events.

Educational and outreach impact

Each year, more than 40 students gain hands-on experience in CAD, FEA, machining, 3D printing, assembly, and systems integration through UCCR build sessions and competitions. Students learn to design for manufacturability, repairability, and robustness under real constraints like weight limits, budget, and short turnaround between fights.

Our 1 lb combat events at the 1819 Innovation Hub are open to the broader UC base, serving as live demonstrations of practical engineering and helping to promote STEM education to students of all backgrounds. In addition to building robots, team members gain experience in project management, documentation, safety practices, and technical communication.

How PCBWay can help and what we offer in return

PCBWay’s expanded services in CNC machining and 3D printing are directly aligned with our most pressing needs. Support in the form of discounted machining, 3D printing, and sponsorship funding would allow us to:​

• Produce stronger and more precise frames, weapon components, and drive parts using high-quality machined metal.
• Rapidly prototype and iterate 3D-printed parts such as armor, mounts, and internal structures to improve durability and serviceability.
• Involve more students in hands-on fabrication and testing by reducing the cost barrier to trying new designs.

In return for PCBWay’s support, we can:

• Display the PCBWay logo on our robots, team shirts, pit banners, and arena signage at on-campus events.
• Mention PCBWay in our event streams, social media posts, and fight recap videos, including links to your machining and 3D printing services where appropriate.
• ​Share detailed build logs, photos, and videos highlighting how PCBWay-supported manufacturing helped bring our combat robots to life.

We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate with PCBWay to continue growing UCCR, build more capable robots, and inspire the next generation of engineers through combat robotics.