Culminating Senior Mechanical Engineering Project

The goals of team Helpful Robotics was to create a mock company and design/build a semi-autonomous security robot. Four fellow engineers and I set out to build a robot which is meant to be a cheap alternative to existing security robots which allows security providers to bolster routine patrols in varying manufacturing and office atmospheres. By using a series of ultrasonic sensors, PTZ cameras and 360-degree thermal imaging, the robot can move by itself with obstacle avoidance all while detecting anomalies which is relayed/optionally controlled over the building WiFi connection by a central security employee. Weight, durability, and manufacturing scalability have been factored into the robot’s construction. The robot is made of fully welded (TIG) aluminum and is capable of achieving speeds upwards of 5 miles per hour, an operational life of 8 hours on a charge, and near ‘zero-turn’ turning capability. The project was completed spring 2020 and was operational despite delays and decentralization of the team associated with Covid-19 school closures and social distancing

Achievements

• Operational Security Robot capable of 360 thermal imaging, PTZ operation, obstacle detection, all controlled over WIFI as promised.

• Successfully transitioned to work together remotely and deliver project on time despite global pandemic

• Fully TIG Welded and machined aluminum chassis with aluminum superstructure and polycarbonate side panels

• Solidworks simulation stress tested model exceeding allowable factor of safety

• Following Industry documentation standards for entirety of project

• Awarded maximum project funding by SPU Engineering Board of Advisors

  Title: Mechanical Lead