What does the term 'Auto' refer to in the context of the FTC competition?

In the context of the FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) competition, the term 'Auto' specifically refers to the Autonomous Phase of a match. During this phase, teams program their robots to operate and perform specific tasks without human control. This phase is crucial as it allows teams to demonstrate their programming skills and the capabilities of their robots.

The Autonomous Phase typically occurs at the beginning of each match, and it is a set period where robots must carry out designated tasks based solely on pre-programmed instructions. Successful completion of tasks during this phase can significantly contribute to the team's overall score.

Understanding the significance of the Autonomous Phase helps participants to focus on programming and sensor integration, which are key elements of robot design and strategy in FTC. This phase also sets the stage for further actions in the Teleoperated Phase, where human drivers take control of the robot.