Clarification on the Use of AI

RoboCupJunior Rescue
1

Dear RoboCup Community,

We would like to provide a clear explanation regarding the use of AI tools in the competition, as we have noticed that more teams are still unsure about what is permitted under the current rules.
According to the official rules, the following section outlines the relevant definitions and conditions:

4.1. Terms and Definitions

  1. Tool: The term “tool” is a comprehensive concept that encompasses both hardware and software components essential for the operation of robots. These can include physical components such as sensors, actuators, or controllers, as well as software elements like algorithms or libraries.
  2. Calibration: Calibration refers to the process in which a team intervenes to adjust or fine-tune the settings of a tool.
  3. Development: Development refers to activities aimed at creating new solutions, technologies, or systems, as well as enhancing existing ones through innovation and creative problem-solving. In this case, for example, calibration is not considered development since it involves fine-tuning or configuring an existing system without introducing new features, technological advancements, or innovations.
  4. Tools are allowed as long as they are developed by the team or when they cannot independently complete a task, or a part of a task, that enables the robot to earn points by sending a signal to the controller without further development (e.g., color sensors, cameras, or libraries necessary for sensor operation).
  5. Tools which are not developed by the team, which can independently complete a task, or a part of a task, which enables the robot to earn points by sending a signal to the controller without further development (e.g., line-following sensors, AI cameras, OCR libraries) are prohibited.

1. Use of AI Models
A frequently discussed topic is the use of pre-trained AI models.
According to the rules, pre-trained models are not allowed unless the team is able to demonstrate further development and a solid understanding of the model’s internal structure and functionality.
For example, using a model like YOLO is permitted only if the team understands how it works — including its architecture — and is capable of performing meaningful development. This can include modifying the network architecture, changing the loss function, or adapting the model in other significant ways.
Annotating images and retraining a model is a valuable and important task, but by itself, it does not qualify as development under the current rules, unless it is accompanied by deeper changes and improvements to the model.
In summary

2. Use of AI Cameras
Another important topic is the use of cameras with built-in AI.
We understand that many modern camera modules now come with integrated AI functions by default, and that some teams may rely on such hardware.
After careful consideration, the committee has decided the following:

  • The hardware itself is not the issue
  • The concern lies in the use of built-in AI features that can perform tasks independently

Therefore, we will not fully prohibit the use of such cameras. However, to ensure fairness, teams who use cameras with built-in AI functionalities will be subject to more detailed inspection during the competition, to ensure that those features are not being used.
We hope this post helps clarify the expectations regarding AI use in the competition.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out here on the forum.

Kind regards,
Csaba,
2025 Committee

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Dear Committee,

I am part of a team that will be competing in the RoboCup Junior World Championships in the Rescue Line category.

Earlier this year, to detect victims and identify the silver line, we decided to retrain a YOLO model using images we collected ourselves, encouraged by the post “2025 RCJ Rescue Rule Changes” (2025 RCJ Rescue Rule Changes), which allowed the use of models such as YOLO.

We tested various YOLO models (YOLOv8s, YOLOv8n, YOLOv11s, YOLOv11n) and ultimately chose to use YOLOv8s. Although we understand how the model works, we haven’t modified it. We have summarised this entire process in our TDP, which we submitted on June 28.
However, after the above clarification (published on June 29), we are no longer certain whether our solution complies with the rules. Given the limited time before the competition — approximately fifteen days — we are unable to modify our strategy (e.g. replace YOLO with other algorithms) and remain competitive.

We would therefore like to ask: what options do we have to comply with this rule clarification?

Sincerely,
Tobia Petrolini

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Hi Tobia and Committee,

Our team is also participating in RoboCup Junior Rescue. Almost two weeks ago, we posted on this forum regarding our use of YOLO: Using YOLO correctly?.

In that post, we explained our implementation of YOLO, as we noticed some conflicting information across the forum. Some posts mention that using YOLO is allowed, while others state that “fine-tuning” is not, which we understand is an essential part of how YOLO works.

We haven’t received a response from the organizers yet. As Tobia mentioned, there’s little time left before the competition, so we would really appreciate your guidance on this matter.

Best regards,
Ernesto González.

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