Students from the Slovenian faculties of FE, FRI, FS and FMF competed in our challenge related to the manipulation and packaging of products, which represents only one piece in the mosaic of automation and robotization of the production line. They are aware that automation and robotics are the reality of the present and even more so of the future. Throughout the competition, they exuded ambition and the desire to present the most effective and innovative solutions to the problem.
The robotics hackathon attracted seven teams comprising 38 participants, with an average of five to six members per group. The teams were composed of students from various faculties of the University of Ljubljana, including technical and natural sciences. Among the participants were an international team from Macedonia and a team of first-year physics students. The challenge for all participants was to tackle an industrial problem using the equipment provided at the event.
On the first day, participants designed their solution to the industrial problem using an assigned robot and mentorship from student mentors. They programmed the robot’s individual steps and selected equipment and sensors. Using a software environment for mechanical component design, they produced corresponding components and even 3D-printed their own grippers. On the second day, teams completed the main task, including recognizing the package’s position, using the robot’s grippers to handle and insert it, and placing the electronic counter in the packaging. Safety was ensured using laser sensors, and some teams developed a user interface for developers. On the third day, participants presented their solutions to a committee comprising Robotics Laboratory representatives and Iskraemeco experts. The committee evaluated the solutions and announced the winning team, which received the main prize, as well as the second and third place teams.
We believe in the importance of supporting the development of young minds and encouraging the next generation of engineers and innovators. We were impressed by all the innovative solutions and projects presented by the students.
Congratulations to all participants who impressed the expert committee with their solutions. In particular, of course, congratulations to the winning team, which won our challenge with its innovative solution.
