Faculty/School

Faculty of Engineering

School of Electrical Engineering and Robotics

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Research centre

Centre for Robotics

Supervisors

Professor Felipe Gonzalez
Position
Professor
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Engineering
Dr Juan Sandino Mora
Position
Research Fellow in Remote Sensing
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Engineering

External supervisors

  • Dr Nicole Robinson, Monash University

Overview

This project focuses on using drones and rovers equipped with computer vision to monitor vegetation in Antarctica. The drone surveys an area and detects vegetation like moss. The rover then plans an optimal path to the detected location, avoiding stepping on lichen or moss, and takes photographs or samples. The project is conducted through simulation using ROS2, Gazebo, and PX4 Autopilot.

Research engagement

Literature Review of optimal path planners, selection of ground robot, comms between robots. Tests will be conducted under software in the loop (SIL)

Research activities

The student will undertake the following activities:

  1. Simulation Setup and Configuration: Setting up simulation environments in ROS2 and Gazebo, integrating PX4 Autopilot for drone control.
  2. Computer Vision Implementation: Developing and implementing computer vision algorithms to detect moss and other vegetation from drone-captured imagery.
  3. Path Planning Algorithms: Creating and testing optimal path planning algorithms for the rover to navigate to specific GPS coordinates without damaging delicate vegetation.
  4. Data Analysis and Integration: Analyzing the data captured by the drones and rovers, and integrating this data for decision-making processes.
  5. Collaboration and Coordination: Working closely with the project supervisors and team members to ensure seamless integration of all components and achieving project milestones.

The student will be working with Prof. Felipe Gonzalez and Dr. Juan Sandino, experts in remote sensing and drones, as well as Dr Nicole Robinson, Co-founder and CEO of Lyro Robotics and an expert on  autonomous systems and ground robot navigation.

Outcomes

The project aims to develop a reliable method for monitoring vegetation in Antarctica using autonomous drones and rovers, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Skills and experience

Ideal candidates should have experience with ROS2, Gazebo, PX4 Autopilot, Linux, and a background in robotics or computer vision.

Start date

1 November, 2024

End date

1 February, 2025

Location

QUT Gardens Point Campus; remote

Additional information

Resources and assistance will be provided, including access to simulation software and guidance from experienced supervisors.

Keywords

Contact

felipe.gonzalez@qut.edu.au