Two NIT Silchar Students Showcase Cutting-Edge Rover Project at IEEE International Conference in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Two students from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar are making waves on the global stage as they represent their institute at the prestigious IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) in Rotterdam. Amandip Dutta, from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Shwetangshu Biswas, from the Department of Electrical Engineering, have been selected to present their innovative NITS YANTRARNAV Rover project, earning them travel grants of $2000 each.

The duo’s participation in this renowned event highlights the growing presence of Indian engineering talent in the global research community. Their project, a prototype rover designed for potential use in space exploration and complex environments, is a testament to the technical skills and innovative thinking nurtured at Indian institutes like NIT Silchar.

“It’s a great honour to be here, showcasing our work at such a significant conference. We’re looking forward to connecting with industry leaders and researchers from around the world,” said Amandip and Shwetangshu, speaking to us from the conference venue.

The IEEE ICRA conference is recognised as a leading platform for showcasing breakthroughs in robotics and automation, bringing together experts from academia and industry. The presence of NIT Silchar at this event underscores the increasing global impact of Indian engineering education and research.

The NITS YANTRARNAV Rover project is a feat of engineering that integrates advanced motion mechanisms, multi-functional manipulators, and a sophisticated array of sensors. It features a robust rocker suspension system that maintains constant ground contact across its six wheels, ensuring optimal weight distribution and stability, even in challenging terrains. The chassis, constructed from durable materials like aluminium and titanium, is designed to house critical electrical components, providing both protection and accessibility for maintenance.

The rover’s capabilities are further enhanced by a suite of precision sensors, including inertial measurement units (IMUs), lidars, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, which are controlled by the onboard Jetson Orin Nano module. This allows the rover to map its environment, detect obstacles, and navigate with remarkable accuracy. The integration of these advanced technologies positions the NITS YANTRARNAV Rover as a potential game-changer in the field of autonomous exploration.

Potential applications of the rover are in areas that are hazardous or inaccessible to humans. The project’s 5DoF robotic arm, capable of delicate and precise movements, could be adapted for use in a variety of critical missions, from space exploration to disaster response.

With their participation at ICRA, Amandip and Shwetangshu have set a new benchmark for aspiring engineers back home, demonstrating that with passion and hard work, Indian students can make significant contributions to global technological advancements.