Challenge for Electrical and Computer Engineering Students! - Digitizing Dinosaur Footprints with Depth Sensors Mounted on Autonomous Mobile Robots
Want to apply your knowledge of robotics, computer vision, and advanced sensors to preserve dinosaur fossils?
This project invites Electrotechnical Engineering and Computer Science students to embark on an exciting challenge: digitizing Portugal’s endangered dinosaur footprints using advanced sensing technologies such as 3D cameras and LiDAR sensors, as well as GNSS receivers, mounted on autonomous mobile robots e.g. wheeled or legged robots. These ancient tracks, located in dynamic coastal environments, demand innovative engineering solutions to capture high-resolution and georeferenced 3D models for preservation and study.
At its core, the project involves the integration of state-of-the-art sensors with SLAM algorithms, ensuring precise mapping and localization even in the face of water reflections and shifting sandy terrains. Students will compare sensor technologies and platform capabilities, making informed engineering decisions to navigate the unique challenges posed by the coastal environment. Path-planning algorithms are also considered to optimize the scanning of the study area.
Beyond the technical rigor, the project offers thrilling international fieldwork opportunities, allowing participants to collaborate with experts from diverse disciplines! The fusion of heritage preservation with cutting-edge robotics and computer vision techniques not only safeguards a crucial piece of Portuguese history but also paves the way for advancements with far-reaching applications in autonomous navigation and environmental monitoring.
If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level and be part of this unique challenge, join us!