About
Welcome to the Mobility and Autonomous Robotic Systems (MARS) Laboratory at PES University, where innovation meets exploration in the realm of robotics. Our laboratory serves as a dynamic hub for cutting-edge research, education, and collaboration in the field of robotics. With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of autonomous navigation, swarm robotics, human-robot interaction, and beyond, we strive to develop transformative solutions to real-world challenges. Through state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary expertise, and a passion for innovation, we are shaping the future of robotics technology while nurturing the next generation of roboticists. Join us on a journey to unlock the limitless possibilities of robotic systems.
Mission
At MARS, our mission is to explore the frontier of robotics technology, develop cutting-edge solutions for real-world problems, and educate the next generation of roboticists.
​Research Areas:
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Autonomous Navigation
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Swarm Robotics
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Human-Robot Interaction
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Aerial Robotics
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Robotic Vision and Perception
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Robot Learning and Adaptation
Facilities:
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Robotic Platforms
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High-Performance Computing Resources
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Simulation Environments
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Rapid Prototyping Tools
​Publications
Projects
Agricultural Spraying Drone
A fully operational spraying drone capable of carrying a 10Kg payload built from scratch. Drone frame uses materials like Carbon Fibre, Aluminium 6061 and PLA. It has both autonomous and manual piloting capabilities and can generate a total thrust of 60Kg.
Our recent field testing has enabled us to test the drone to its limits. We can clearly conclude that the drone uses nearly 50% less medicine compared to traditional spraying methods and was able to complete spraying 2 acres of land in less than 10 minutes.
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Video Links:
Assembly: Click to view video
Flight Test: Click to view video
Field Test: Click to view video
Digital Twin
Digital twins are virtual replicas of physical assets or systems, offering real-time insights and control. By integrating data from sensors and IoT devices, they enable predictive analytics and proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and costs. Digital twins find applications across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation, optimizing processes and enhancing safety. Advancements in IoT, AI, and cloud computing drive their evolution, promising further innovation and adoption. As industries embrace digital transformation, digital twins are pivotal in driving operational excellence and competitiveness.
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Video Link: Click to view video
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Multi Terrain Ground Vehicle (MTGV)
A replica of MARS perseverance rover which is fully 3D printed. It has the ability to navigate around uneven terrain. The MTGV is a faithful replica of the Mars Perseverance rover, meticulously crafted using cutting-edge 3D printing technology. Designed to navigate diverse terrains with ease. Its rugged construction ensures durability and reliability in challenging environments, making it an ideal platform for research and exploration missions.
Ongoing Projects:
Delivery Drone Mechanism:
These drones can operate autonomously using AI technology or remotely, with overseeing from distribution centers and operators. The benefits of drone delivery include potential lower costs, higher operational efficiency, new revenue streams, instantaneous fulfillment, less congested roadways, fewer accidents, and lower emissions. However, challenges such as package weight limitations, flight time and range constraints due to battery life, and handling unpredictable events like weather or hacking are still being researched. A delivery drone pulley mechanism designed at MARS laboratory.
Niryo Ned 2:
A state-of-the-art six-axis robotic arm sourced from France, now available through the Mobility and Autonomous Robotic Systems (MARS) Laboratory at PES University. Designed with versatility in mind, the Niryo NED 2 is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from pick-and-place operations to complex assembly tasks. With its six-axis design, it boasts a remarkable degree of freedom, enabling it to reach into tight spaces and manipulate objects with utmost dexterity.
One of the standout features of the Niryo NED 2 is its intuitive programming interface. Utilizing a user-friendly software platform, users can easily program the robotic arm to perform intricate tasks without the need for extensive programming knowledge. It is also compatible with numerous SDKs like Python, ROS, blockly, nVidia, TensorFlow, Arduino, OpenCV and RoboDK. Which makes an ideal tool for education.
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Video Link:
Shape Sorting: Click to view video
Colour Sorting: Click to view video
Juice Vending Machine
To revolutionise the beverage industry by addressing the inefficiencies of traditional juice machines, providing an automated and personalised beverage experience, and enhancing overall user satisfaction.
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Key Features:
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Smart dispenser system
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User-friendly touch screen interface
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Efficient cup placement and retrieval
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Video Link: Click to view video
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Ongoing Projects:
Outdoor Autonomous Vehicle:
Outdoor autonomous vehicles, specifically designed for logistics applications, offer a range of benefits that make them ideal for enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability in various environments. These vehicles are equipped with advanced technologies that enable them to navigate autonomously, handle goods, and operate in all weather conditions, ensuring continuous logistics flow.
The vehicles are equipped with advanced perception sensors, including Lidar, which provides Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) capabilities. This allows for precise navigation within mapped environments, ensuring high localization accuracy. Additionally, GPS localization is available as a complementary option for further enhancing navigation reliability
Open Positions
Research Assistant : Final year students or B. Tech graduates from Computer Science and Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Has to be proficient in using softwares and tools related to their respective domain.