This course immerses students in the exciting world of combat robotics through RoboMaster, an international robotics competition featuring a spectrum of robotic applications: auto-aim systems, robotic arms, drones, surface-to-air missile technology, autonomous systems, legged robots, and surveillance systems. As an introduction to the competition, students will work in multidisciplinary teams to design, implement, and integrate mechanical, electrical, and software systems to build an Infantry robot from scratch to compete in the 1v1 event in the RoboMaster University League (North America). In the course, students will also learn good project management practices as well as innovation and problem-solving skills that will prepare them to tackle complex challenges in robotics and beyond.

At the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Gain hands-on experience in designing, building, and programming reliable combat robots.
• Understand the fundamentals of mechanical, electrical, and software systems integration.
• Analyse competition requirements and develop effective strategies for robot performance and team coordination.
• Develop problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and optimise robotic systems under time constraints.
• Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams to solve complex engineering challenges.
• Develop communication skills to articulate technical ideas and strategies clearly.

Workload: 4 units (graded on CS/CU basis)

Note: This course is only available for students who are selected to join the DarkNUS training programme by NUS Calibur Robotics. Calibur Robotics is a team that develops robots to take part in the RoboMaster University League and RoboMaster University Championship., comprising students from various disciplines.

Course syllabus

Basic mechanical design and prototyping methods:

• Computer aided design (e.g. Autodesk Inventor)
• 3D printing
• Laser cutting
• CNC manufacturing
• Sheet metal fabrication

Basic electrical design and prototyping methods:

• PCB design
• Soldering and crimping
• Use of simple lab equipment (e.g. power supply, oscilloscope) for testing

Basic software design and prototyping methods:

• STM32 microcontroller programming
• Use of real-time operating systems (e.g. FreeRTOS)
• Communication protocols (e.g. CAN, UART)
• Simple feedback control
• Computer vision