Projects
Summer 2024
Rapid Robotics
Given the importance of 3-D data in Computer Vision applications, Engineering Solutions at Berkeley is working with Rapid Robotics to develop a first of its kind 3-D object scanner. The scanner will be vital in generating the point clouds used by Rapid Robotics’ Machine Learning Engine to deliver the fast grasp point generation central to the high speed operations on the packaging line.
Spring 2024
Sentien Robotics
The team entirely redesigned the last semesters high-speed cable robot, increasing the catching area by nearly two times, over 35 square feet, and extensively improving rigidity and manufacturability. The robot proved to be very reliable in testing, in which there were no mechanical failures over multiple weeks. The control scheme was also extensively improved, allowing more complex movement paths and preparing a way forward for robust feedback control.
Kind Humanoid
In line with Kind Humanoid Robotics’ goals to produce a cost-efficient humanoid robot, the ESB team was tasked with the research and development of a novel robotic skin to surround the frame of the next iteration of Mona, Kind Humanoid’s demonstrator robot, as well as provide high-resolution touch sensing. ESB team members conducted experimental research on material properties, resistive, and capacitive sensing. This resulted in the development of a 10 centimeter by 10 centimeter Flex PCB-based mutually capacitive sensing prototype design which had sensing capabilities up to 100N of direct force.
Navier
The goal of the Navier camera project was to research, design and manufacture an hydrodynamic underwater camera mount to study potential cavitation on the hydrofoils of the boat. Our engineers specified our camera choice and conducted research on minimizing drag underwater, conducting CFD on our specified profile for our design. We then designed a mount that would hold our cameras in place while being removable from the hydrofoil.
Navier
In collaboration with Navier, the ESB team was tasked with developing and integrating a forward-facing sonar system for their hydrofoil electric boats. This obstacle detection system enables Navier to test sonars for collisions, pushing their goal of autonomous marine travel. The team of 5 engineers designed a 7-foot-long hydrodynamic foil system to securely position a sonar below the boat, optimizing foil designs with CFD, machining rigid mounting systems, and coding obstacle detection algorithms.
Fall 2023
Ditto
Ditto is a software company that enables communication between devices with or without an internet connection. Given an anechoic testing chamber, ESB was tasked with designing and building a robust entrance that effectively attenuates RF signals. We iterated through multiple designs and finally built a sliding mechanism that accounts for thick RF-attenuating material and restrictions with the physical room.
Sensible Robotics
To test Sensible Robotics' novel skin sensor, capable of detecting touch more precisely than human skin, ESB was responsible for testing and collecting data for the sensor. By designing and assembling an actuatable claw to test grip strength, Sensible can receive data detailing the effectiveness of their sensor and locate areas for improvement.
Sentien Robotics
Continuing Sentien's experimental approach to drone fleet applications, the ESB team was tasked with developing a high-speed cable robot to catch drones mid-flight. This fixture allows greater accuracy for drone docking procedures and allows Sentien to expand into fixed-wing aircraft. After designing and machining a six-foot by six-foot winch robot, we also developed a control scheme to allow us to move the platform to the desired position.
Sentien Robotics
One of Sentien's drone hub systems was experiencing lower-than-desired efficiency when operating in hot climates. ESB was brought in to analyze the current system and develop solutions. The team provided researched options for heat transfer systems, as well as thermal analysis calculations and heat location calculators to help set up a customized heat transfer solution.
Spring 2023
Sentien Robotics
Designed for Sentien Robotics, this project loaded tennis ball shaped packages into a wirelessly controlled system capable of feeding the balls to certain drones. A separate team worked on a modular winching system that would lower said packages to the final location. This was used as an initial test by Sentien for how feasible drone package delivery is for the company.
Hedgehog
Hedgehog Foods is an agri-tech robotics startup whose mission is to automate mushroom farming. Our project was to miniaturize a composting unit, used to create mushroom feed. It involved HVAC design, robotics, and a thorough understanding of PID control.
Seismic
In this project, ESB members worked on an electromechanical testing rig designed to test wearable use cases for Seismic's assistive suits. From initial CAD ideas to implementing sensors and other electronics, this project allowed Seismic to accurately test their suits in a streamlined process.
Bimotal
This project was with Bimodal, a modular electric bike startup whose product is designed to add a motor and battery to regular bikes, turning them electric. We designed an adaptation to their product for the wheelchair market. This involved intensive CAD design, FEA, and market research.