Megdess Negussie: Tiger Beetle Vision - Exploring The Effects of High-Speed Vision Through Bio-Inspired Microrobots

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This project involved building a micro-robot capable of recording images while moving at high speeds. From this experience, Megdess learned hardware development skills such as PCB design, soldering, CAD modeling, and 3D printing, as well as developed proficiency in professional and research skills. Here is what Megdess had to say about the experience:

What I Did:

"My project involved building a small, fast-moving, image-capture-capable micro-robot to study how vision works on small, resource-contained systems. Its inspiration was the tiger beetle, an insect that runs so fast while pursuing prey, that it goes temporarily blind."

"My mentor allowed me to take the lead on hardware design components like designing the circuit, 3D printed casing, and tires from scratch. I reviewed existing research through a literature review and collaboration with other members of my lab to inform electronics design, image capture, and data processing methods. I improved in these skills over time as the project required many versions of the robot due to redesigns. Through this research, I picked up many hardware development skills, such as PCB design, CAD design, and 3D printing. I also got experience using tools and software in the lab such as soldering and laser cutting. I also got to create a poster and oral presentation to present my research at several conferences, such as the UB Undergraduate Research Conference, the UB Summer Research Symposium, and the LS-PAC Models Conference. This built my professional communication skills and improved my public speaking ability, demonstrated by winning the best oral presentation in the room at the LS-PAC MODELS conference."

What I Learned:

"This project involved learning hardware development skills such as PCB design, soldering, CAD modeling, and 3D printing, as well as professional and research skills such as experiment design, literature review, and research communications. I got to present my research at conferences and symposiums and received an award for my work. I am proud to have grown so much during my time on the project, improving my hardware development skills from scratch but also improving my ability to communicate with others."