A team from the Innopolis University student robotics laboratory, led by fourth-year student Evgeny Shlomov, presented two developments at the “Digital Days of Innopolis”.
The whale-shaped shell is filled with helium. The team developed the mechanics, electronics, and software from scratch. The apparatus flies in large rooms where there is no GPS signal. Its position and course are determined by a UWB system of five beacons and two tags — no compass is needed. Six engines on the shell provide full control: altitude, tilt, turns, and forward movement.
Currently, students are working on a ground station for the airship. It will build a map of the room, plot routes, and upload tasks.
The robot transports goods and trolleys in warehouses and production facilities. The team also created the chassis, electronics, and software from scratch. The platform height is reduced to 22 cm — enough to drive under a trolley. The robot bypasses obstacles and grips racks thanks to lidars. An operator console with maps and routes, as well as a system for managing a group of robots according to the VDA 5050 standard, are provided.