The Astromech project is focused on building an autonomous droid like R2-D2 from Star Wars. This is not related to a competition or challenge of any kind; we simply want to make a cool robot! The end goal of this project is to have the Astromech roam around various parts of campus without any human intervention or control. Currently, this project has 3 sub-teams: Electrical, Software, and Mechanical. The Electrical team is focused on building the electrical circuit boards and making the wheel motors work correctly. The Software team is working on the autonomous functions of the onboard computer, including low-level controls programming as well as gathering vision data. Lastly, the Mechanical team is building the internal frame for the robot and collaborating with the other teams to put it all together. We are always looking for more members in this project, regardless of your major or experience. Stop by the Robotics Club Room in Bonderson on Saturdays to learn more!

4/22/23
”Currently, the robot can move via remote control and its head can spin. This past year, we assembled the wooden frame, created a modular electronics mount, and attached the head. We will continue to work on adding sound and other functionality found in the Star Wars movies, as well as attaching the outer robot skin, developing more robust software, and adding more aesthetic components. Next year, we will transition the robot to being fully autonomous and paint it.”