BEARS
Autonomous Rover Prototype

Autonomous Rover Prototype

Project Overview

The Autonomous Rover Prototype project focuses on developing advanced navigation algorithms for a Mars rover-inspired vehicle. Our goal is to create a fully autonomous system capable of navigating challenging terrain while avoiding obstacles and achieving mission objectives.

Objectives

  1. Implement real-time computer vision for terrain analysis
  2. Develop path planning algorithms for efficient navigation
  3. Create robust obstacle detection and avoidance systems
  4. Integrate sensor fusion for improved environmental awareness
  5. Test autonomous capabilities in simulated Mars-like environments

Key Technologies

  • Computer Vision: OpenCV and TensorFlow for image processing and object detection
  • Navigation: ROS (Robot Operating System) for robot control and coordination
  • Hardware: Custom-built rover with 6-wheel rocker-bogie suspension
  • Sensors:
    • Stereo cameras for depth perception
    • LiDAR for 360-degree environmental mapping
    • IMU for orientation and movement tracking
    • GPS for outdoor positioning

Project Milestones

Phase 1: Hardware Assembly ✓

  • Completed rover chassis and suspension system
  • Integrated all sensors and computing hardware

Phase 2: Basic Navigation ✓

  • Implemented manual control interface
  • Developed basic obstacle detection

Phase 3: Autonomous Systems (In Progress)

  • Training neural networks for terrain classification
  • Implementing path planning algorithms
  • Testing autonomous navigation in controlled environments

Phase 4: Field Testing (Upcoming)

  • Mars-analog site testing
  • Performance optimization
  • Competition preparation

Team Structure

  • Emma Watson - Project Lead & AI Development
  • Frank Chen - Hardware Engineering
  • Grace Kim - Computer Vision Specialist
  • Henry Martinez - Control Systems Engineer
  • Iris Patel - Testing & Validation Lead

Competition Goals

We’re preparing to compete in the University Rover Challenge, where our rover will face real-world Mars mission scenarios including autonomous navigation, equipment servicing, and sample collection tasks.

Get Involved

Interested in joining the rover team? We’re always looking for passionate students with skills in:

  • Mechanical engineering
  • Computer science and AI
  • Electrical engineering
  • Systems integration

Contact us to learn more about contributing to this exciting project!